Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects around 1% of the population worldwide. It causes damage to the small intestine when gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, is eaten. People with celiac disease need to follow a strict lifelong gluten-free diet to manage their symptoms and prevent further damage to their intestines.
This means avoiding foods containing wheat, barley, rye and often oats. It also includes avoiding foods processed with these grains, as well as foods cooked in shared kitchen spaces where cross-contamination is likely. People with celiac disease need to be cautious with condiments, sauces and seasonings, as many use wheat, barley or rye as thickening agents.
Dijon mustard is a popular condiment made from mustard seeds, vinegar, salt and spices. It originated in Dijon, France. As it does not naturally contain any gluten ingredients, Dijon mustard is generally considered safe in small servings for people with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, there are some important considerations when choosing a brand of Dijon mustard to ensure it is gluten-free.
Quick Answers:
– Most Dijon mustard brands are safe for people with celiac disease, as mustard seeds, vinegar, salt and spices do not contain gluten. However, some brands may have additives that contain gluten.
– People with celiac disease need to check the ingredients list and allergen statements on the label to ensure the brand they choose does not contain gluten or wheat-derived ingredients.
– Some unsafe ingredients to look out for include malt vinegar, wheat flour and barley malt. Safe Dijon mustard brands will be labeled “gluten-free”.
– Dijon mustard containing trace levels of gluten from cross-contamination may be tolerable in the small servings used as a condiment. But individuals should check with their doctor.
– Homemade Dijon mustard made from gluten-free ingredients is the safest option for people with celiac disease.
Evaluating the Ingredients in Dijon Mustard
When choosing a Dijon mustard brand, the key is carefully reading the ingredient list and allergen statements on the product label. This provides information on what is actually used to make the mustard.
Here are some things for those with celiac disease to look for when evaluating if a Dijon mustard is gluten-free:
Mustard Seeds – The base of Dijon mustard is ground mustard seeds. All mustard seeds are gluten-free, including yellow mustard seeds (also called white mustard seeds), brown mustard seeds and black mustard seeds. These contribute the characteristic hot, spicy flavor to Dijon mustard.
Vinegar – Most Dijon mustards use a type of vinegar as the liquid component. This helps provide the tangy flavor. Wheat, malt or barley-derived vinegars are not safe, as they contain gluten. White wine vinegar, champagne vinegar, sherry vinegar, rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar are typically used in gluten-free brands. Distilled white vinegar is also safe.
Salt – Salt is a key seasoning agent in Dijon mustard. All salt is gluten-free, including natural sea salt or iodized table salt.
Spices – Spices like tumeric, garlic and pepper add to the Dijon mustard flavor profile. All pure, unseasoned spices are gluten-free. Spice blends may contain gluten, so check the blend ingredients.
Thickeners – Some Dijon mustards use thickeners like wheat flour or starch to obtain a thicker texture. These contain gluten and are not safe. Guar gum or xanthan gum are gluten-free alternatives.
Preservatives – Preservatives like citric acid are sometimes used. Look for gluten-free varieties.
Flavors/Extracts – Added flavors or extracts should also be gluten-free. For example, wheat extract would contain gluten.
Cross-Contamination – Even if all ingredients are gluten-free, cross-contamination during manufacturing is possible. Opt for brands produced in allergen-free facilities.
Unsafe Ingredients
When checking Dijon mustard labels, these are some specific ingredients that indicate the product is not gluten-free and unsafe for those with celiac disease:
– Wheat flour – This thickener contains gluten.
– Barley malt – Derived from barley, this contains gluten.
– Malt vinegar – Vinegar made from barley malt is not gluten-free.
– Wheat starch – This thickener contains gluten.
– Wheat extract – Extracts derived from wheat have gluten.
– Barley extract – Extracts derived from barley contain gluten.
– Flavors containing gluten – Some added flavor mixes may have gluten.
– Shared equipment – Manufacturing on shared lines risks cross-contamination.
Safe Ingredients
Here are some gluten-free ingredients to look for when choosing a Dijon mustard brand:
– Mustard seeds – All mustard seeds, including yellow, brown and black, are gluten-free.
– Distilled white vinegar – Distilled to remove gluten protein.
– Apple cider vinegar – Made from apples, free of gluten.
– Wine vinegar – White wine, rice wine and champagne vinegars don’t contain gluten.
– Spices – Pure spices without additives are gluten-free.
– Sea salt – Table salt and sea salt contain no gluten.
– Guar gum – Used as a gluten-free thickener.
– Xanthan gum – Another gluten-free thickening option.
– Citric acid – A gluten-free preservative.
– Gluten-free label – Look for “gluten-free” labeled brands produced in allergen-free facilities.
Risk of Cross-Contamination
Even if all the ingredients in a Dijon mustard are gluten-free, there is still a possibility of cross-contamination occurring during manufacturing if facilities are not dedicated to allergen-free production.
Cross-contamination occurs when gluten-containing grains come into contact with the mustard during processing or packaging. This could happen through:
– Shared equipment – Used to process wheat-based mustards then used for Dijon production without thorough cleaning.
– Shared facilities – Made in facilities that also process gluten-containing foods.
– Shared utensils – Using scoops, containers, pipes, bottling equipment, etc. that have had contact with gluten.
– Airborne particles – Gluten particles floating in the air and settling into the mustard.
The amount of gluten that ends up in the Dijon mustard through cross-contamination is usually trace or very low. Amounts of 20ppm of gluten or less are considered gluten-free by FDA standards.
However, individuals have varying sensitivity levels to trace gluten. Those with celiac disease should check with their doctor about their personal tolerance thresholds for cross-contamination. Consuming trace amounts may be ok for some but could trigger symptoms or intestinal damage in others, especially those with recently diagnosed celiac disease.
Dijon mustards labeled “gluten-free” and produced in dedicated allergen-free facilities have the lowest risk of cross-contamination. Calling the manufacturer with any questions is also recommended.
Dijon Mustard Servings
In addition to the ingredients, the amount of Dijon mustard consumed may also impact someone with celiac disease’s reaction and tolerance.
Dijon mustard is used in small amounts as a condiment or seasoning, not in larger quantities for primary nutrition. The low serving sizes may help limit exposure to any traces of gluten.
However, consuming heaping servings of Dijon mustard at every meal could potentially add up to problematic gluten intake over the course of a day for those highly sensitive.
A typical serving of Dijon mustard is around 1-2 teaspoons. Using just a small amount as a topping or sauce ingredient is unlikely to cause issues for most people with well-managed celiac disease who are not highly sensitive.
However, each person may have a different tolerance level for potential gluten cross-contamination and total gluten intake per day. Checking with a doctor about appropriate Dijon mustard serving sizes is advised, especially for newly diagnosed celiac patients.
Choosing Safe Dijon Mustard Brands
When selecting a Dijon mustard brand, looking for one that is specifically labeled “gluten-free” is the safest bet for those with celiac disease.
Here are some well-known Dijon mustard brands that are labeled “gluten-free”:
– Grey Poupon – Their classic Dijon and honey Dijon mustards are both gluten-free. Grey Poupon ensures all steps of their process are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
– Maille – Indicated gluten-free on their website. Made without wheat or barley malt vinegar.
– Gulden’s – Marked gluten-free. Uses distilled vinegar and gluten-free spices.
– Annie’s Naturals – Annie’s Organic Dijon Mustard is certified gluten-free. Made without malt vinegar.
– Trader Joe’s – Their Dijon mustard products are labeled gluten-free. Uses white wine vinegar.
– 365 Everyday Value (Whole Foods) – Their Dijon mustard contains distilled vinegar and is marked gluten-free.
– Trader Joe’s – Trader Joe’s Organic Dijon Mustard is labeled gluten-free. Contains white wine vinegar.
– Stonewall Kitchen – Stonewall Kitchen Gluten Free Dijon Garlic Mustard is marked gluten-free.
– Duke’s – Duke’s Real Dijon Mustard states it is gluten-free on the back label. Uses white vinegar.
– Koops’ – Koops’ Dijon Mustard is labeled gluten-free and made in an allergen-free facility.
Always double check the label and ingredients each time you purchase any product, as formulations can change over time. Contacting the manufacturer directly with any questions is also wise.
Those with celiac disease should also take care if selecting generic, store brand, bulk bin or imported European Dijon mustard varieties, as gluten-free status may be less certain.
Dijon Mustard Alternatives
For those with celiac disease who want to be extra cautious about Dijon mustard or prefer to avoid it, there are some gluten-free alternatives that can provide a similar flavor profile. These include:
– Gluten-free whole grain mustard – Similar spicy taste and texture. Brands like Eden Foods are gluten-free.
– Homemade Dijon-style mustard – Made from gluten-free ingredients at home. Gives control over the process.
– Yellow mustard – Classic yellow mustard is typically gluten-free.
– Spicy brown mustard – Stone ground varieties like Inglehoffer are often gluten-free.
– Honey mustard – Some brands like Ken’s Steakhouse are gluten and wheat-free.
– Prepared horseradish – Adds a pungent kick with no gluten.
– Wasabi – Japanese wasabi paste provides heat and is gluten-free.
– Hot sauce – Many hot sauces, like Tabasco, don’t contain gluten.
– Hummus – For a thicker dip or spread, hummus can provide tanginess. Check chickpea brand.
– Aioli – Garlic aioli made from gluten-free ingredients can provide flavor.
– Tapenade – Olive tapenade offers a savory, salty flavor profile.
– Pesto – Nut-free pesto made with gluten-free grains provides richness.
Making Your Own Dijon Mustard
For those with celiac disease who want to enjoy Dijon mustard with total certainty over the ingredients, making it at home is an option.
Homemade Dijon mustard allows complete control over the entire process from sourcing ingredients to production. It also lets you customize the flavor how you prefer.
Here is an overview of how to make Dijon mustard at home:
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup yellow mustard seeds – Use whole yellow or white mustard seeds. Check bulk bins for gluten-free status.
– 1/2 cup brown mustard seeds – These add more spiciness. You can adjust the ratios of seeds.
– 1/2 cup liquid – White or rice wine vinegar, or chicken or vegetable broth. Use gluten-free varieties.
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sea salt – Add more to taste if desired. Use gluten-free tamari for a deeper flavor.
– 1/4 tsp turmeric – Adds earthiness.
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder – Opt for garlic salt to make it creamy and salty.
-pepper or other spices to taste – Try paprika, cloves, coriander or allspice.
Steps
1. Combine all ingredients except 1/4 cup liquid in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
2. Transfer to a food processor and pulse to coarsely grind the seeds.
3. With the motor running, slowly pour in remaining 1/4 cup liquid until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate for at least an hour. The longer it rests, the better the flavor will develop.
5. Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 months. Enjoy as a condiment!
Get creative and make flavored Dijon mustards by adding ingredients like honey, maple syrup, herbs, lemon juice or spices. Homemade allows for versatility.
Dijon Mustard in Recipes
Dijon mustard can be used to add flavor in a variety of gluten-free recipes. Here are some recipe ideas:
Dijon Chicken
Coat chicken breasts with Dijon mustard, garlic and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Bake until crisp and golden brown.
Dijon Salmon
Slather salmon fillets with Dijon mustard, lemon juice and honey. Bake until flaky.
Dijon Potato Salad
Toss diced potatoes in a creamy Dijon dressing made with dairy-free yogurt, apple cider vinegar, celery, parsley and onion. Chill before serving.
Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
Stir Dijon mustard into the vinaigrette for this fresh salad with quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber and parsley.
Dijon Green Beans
Roast fresh green beans tossed in olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dijon Pork Chops
Spread Dijon on boneless pork chops and serve with a pan sauce made from the drippings, minced shallots, white wine and garlic.
Dijon Deviled Eggs
Mix Dijon, dairy-free mayo and salt into the egg yolk filling before stuffing the whites for classic deviled eggs.
Dijon Shrimp Pasta
Saute shrimp in olive oil with garlic until pink. Toss with rice pasta, arugula, Dijon mustard and lemon.
Dijon Dip
Blend Dijon mustard into dairy-free plain yogurt or sour cream, along with herbs and lemon juice. Use for dipping gluten-free crackers, vegetables or fries.
The Bottom Line
Dijon mustard can generally be included in a gluten-free diet, as it typically does not naturally contain gluten. However, care must be taken to choose reputable brands that are labeled gluten-free and free of wheat, barley and malt ingredients.
Cross-contamination is still possible during manufacturing, so those with celiac disease should check with their doctor to determine their personal tolerance level. Consuming Dijon mustard in small servings as an occasional condiment is less likely to cause issues. Making your own Dijon mustard at home provides the most control over ingredients.
Overall, Dijon mustard can add great flavor to recipes and meals. By carefully selecting gluten-free brands and enjoying it in moderation, most people with celiac disease don’t need to fully eliminate this condiment favorite.
