Hidden Sources of Gluten

Medications and Supplements

Many tablets use wheat starch as a binder or filler. Your prescription antibiotic, vitamin, or paracetamol might contain gluten. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) doesn't require gluten to be listed separately; it's just 'inactive ingredient'. Always ask your pharmacist or call the manufacturer. Some common culprits include certain multivitamins, antihistamines, and laxatives.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Lipstick, lip balm, and toothpaste often contain gluten. Many brands use wheat germ or barley extract as an ingredient. If you lick your lips or swallow toothpaste (especially kids), you're ingesting gluten. Mouthwash, hand cream, and even some sunscreens can contain it. The concern is only for products that might be swallowed or transferred to food; gluten cannot be absorbed through skin alone.

Sauces, Condiments, and Processed Foods

Soy sauce traditionally contains wheat (though tamari does not). Many salad dressings, marinades, and gravies use wheat flour as a thickener. Worcestershire sauce, malt vinegar, and some brands of mustard contain gluten. Even 'natural' looking products like pesto or curry paste might be thickened with wheat. Read every label on condiments, not just the main ingredients.

Deli Meats and Processed Proteins

Sausages, bacon, and some hams use breadcrumbs or wheat starch as filler and binder. Processed chicken nuggets almost always contain gluten. Even 'gluten-free' labelled deli meats might be made on shared equipment. Always check the full ingredients list and look for the allergen summary box.

Unexpected Sources

Communion wafers are wheat-based (though some churches now offer gluten-free alternatives). Play-doh contains wheat. Stamps and envelopes (historically) used wheat-based adhesive. Spice blends and seasoning mixes often contain gluten fillers. Imitation crab (surimi) is typically bound with wheat. Some ice creams and puddings are thickened with malt. Instant gravies, soup mixes, and bouillon cubes almost always contain gluten.

Even seemingly innocent items like some brands of chocolate chips or nut butters can be contaminated during manufacturing. When in doubt, check the label or call the manufacturer.

Sources

FSANZ, Coeliac Australia, Celiac Disease Foundation, FDA, Beyond Celiac