Are Sausages Gluten Free?

Contains Gluten
Most commercial sausages contain gluten due to fillers and binders.
Commercial sausages typically use breadcrumbs, wheat flour, or rusk as binders and fillers. This makes most sausages unsafe for coeliac disease.

Coeliac Disease

Avoid commercial sausages unless specifically labelled GF. Make your own with certified GF fillers or buy specialty GF brands.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Avoid unless verified GF. Check for additives as well.

Why Do Sausages Contain Gluten?

Sausage manufacturers use grains as filler and binder to add volume and absorb liquid. Wheat rusk and breadcrumbs are standard.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ classifies most sausages as containing gluten. Some brands certify GF.

United States (FDA)

FDA allows sausages, but most contain gluten fillers.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g (beef, raw)
Energy1197 kJ / 286 kcal
Protein12.0g
Fat, total23.0g
Saturated fat8.8g
Carbohydrate5.0g
Sugars1.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium680mg

Source: AFCD. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

Brand Comparison

Not all brands are created equal. Here is how popular sausages brands stack up for gluten content.

BrandRegionGluten Free?CertificationNotes
Woolworths AU Check None Check for fillers and additives
Coles AU Check None Some varieties contain gluten fillers
Hans AU Check None Check specific product lines
Don AU Check None European-style sausages may contain fillers
Ingham's AU Check None Chicken and pork ranges vary
Hellers AU Check None Check label for gluten-containing additives

What to Watch For

Breadcrumbs, wheat rusk, wheat flour, binders, additives.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Gluten-free certified sausages, fresh ground meat cooked plainly, homemade GF sausages.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Sausages gluten free?

Commercial sausages typically use breadcrumbs, wheat flour, or rusk as binders and fillers. This makes most sausages unsafe for coeliac disease.

Can coeliacs eat sausages?

Avoid commercial sausages unless specifically labelled GF. Make your own with certified GF fillers or buy specialty GF brands.

More from RefDat

Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of slow cookers for coeliac-friendly options. Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ, sausage brand labels, Weston A. Price

Last reviewed: May 2026