Is cornstarch gluten free?

Sources disagree. The publishers we cite give different answers for cornstarch; both sides are shown below, in their own words. Packaged foods differ, so check the label of the product you buy.

What the sources tell us

The Gluten Intolerance Group lists cornstarch among flours from gluten-free sources, while the National Celiac Association recommends buying cornstarch that is labeled gluten free. The difference is about processing. The association says corn is naturally gluten free, but corn-based flours such as cornstarch could have had cross-contact with gluten-containing grains during processing.[1][4]

The group describes cornstarch as a thickener used in small quantities in gravies and stir fries, and notes that some gluten-free baking recipes call for it as a substitute for flour.[1]

Because sauces and gravies are often thickened with wheat flour or a roux, the group suggests white rice flour, cornstarch or arrowroot as an easy way to make them gluten-free.[3]

The group also points out a nutrition trade-off. Many specialty gluten-free products are based on cornstarch, potato starch, tapioca starch or white rice flour, and it says their nutrient composition is significantly less dense than that of products made with whole grains.[2]

Cornstarch is a starting material for other ingredients too. The association says caramel coloring is most often made from cornstarch and is considered gluten free, and that glucose syrup in products sold in the US is most likely made from cornstarch and is considered safe even when it comes from wheat, barley or rye.[5]

Where the sources disagree

Depends on the product

"make sure your corn-based flours such as corn flour, cornmeal, masa, and cornstarch are labeled gluten free as they could have had cross-contact"

National Celiac Association · Depends · nationalceliac.org/celiac-disease-questions/is-there-gluten-in-corn · fetched 2026-10-23

Naturally gluten-free

"additional flours from alternative, gluten-free sources ... Cornstarch Cornstarch is commonly used in small quantities as a thickener in gravies and stir fries."

Gluten Intolerance Group · Naturally gluten-free · gluten.org/2019/10/17/gluten-free-grains · fetched 2026-10-23

Certified gluten-free alternatives

Products on the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) list. Each links to its GFCO listing. A product counts as certified only when its package also carries the GFCO mark.

Not stated

Sources