Quick Answer
Fajita seasoning mixes typically do not contain gluten and are safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, it’s important to check the ingredients list and nutrition facts label, as some brands may have wheat-based ingredients or shared production facilities. When in doubt, choose certified gluten-free brands or make your own homemade blend.
What is Fajita Seasoning?
Fajita seasoning is a spice blend used to flavor fajita meat and vegetables. It usually contains a mixture of chile peppers, cumin, garlic, onion, oregano, and other spices. The blend adds a tex-mex kick of flavor popular in Mexican cuisine.
Fajita meat such as steak, chicken or shrimp is grilled or pan-fried with onions and bell peppers and served in a warm tortilla with typical taco toppings like cheese, guacamole, salsa, etc. Fajita seasoning gives this simple dish its signature zest and southwest profile.
Common Ingredients in Fajita Seasoning
While recipes can vary between brands, most fajita seasoning contains some or all of these ingredients:
- Chili powder – This adds both heat and smoky flavor. Chipotle, ancho, and New Mexico chile peppers are commonly used.
- Garlic powder – Provides a pungent kick and seasoning.
- Onion powder – Adds subtle onion flavor.
- Ground cumin – A warm, earthy spice common in Mexican cooking.
- Oregano – Has a bold, herbaceous taste.
- Paprika – For color and mild sweetness.
- Black pepper – Adds some heat and spice.
- Salt – For overall flavor enhancement.
- Cilantro – Bright, citrusy freshness in some blends.
- Crushed red pepper – Extra heat in some versions.
In addition to the spices, some brands add tomato powder, sugar, cornstarch or anti-caking agents. Check the ingredient list to know exactly what’s included.
Does Fajita Seasoning Normally Contain Gluten?
Most fajita seasoning mixes are gluten-free. Since the blends are based on simple whole spices like chile pepper, garlic, cumin and oregano, they do not typically contain any gluten sources.
The most common potential sources of gluten to watch out for in seasoning blends include:
- Wheat flour – Sometimes added as an anti-caking thickener.
- Barley malt – May be used as a flavoring.
- Soy Sauce – Can contain wheat, if not marked gluten-free.
- Hydrolyzed wheat protein – Used as a flavor enhancer in some seasonings.
However, these ingredients are not very common in fajita spice mixes. Most major brands formulate their mixes without gluten-containing ingredients.
Risk of Cross-Contamination
Even if a fajita seasoning has no gluten-containing ingredients, there is a small chance of cross-contamination occurring during manufacturing in a shared facility.
This risk arises because many spice companies also handle wheat flour, soy sauce and other products with gluten. Microscopic amounts can get into the otherwise gluten-free seasonings.
That’s why some people who are highly sensitive prefer certified gluten-free products made in dedicated facilities. They have extra controls in place to prevent any cross-contact.
How Fajita Seasoning is Made
Understanding the manufacturing process provides clues about potential cross-contamination risks:
- First, all the individual spices and ingredients are sourced from suppliers.
- They are transported to the spice facility in bulk bags, jars, etc.
- At the facility, batches of the spices are weighed out and blended in large mixing vessels according to the recipe.
- The well-mixed seasonings are packaged into retail containers, bags, shaker bottles, etc.
- Finally, the finished products are shipped out to distributors and stores.
Steps are taken to prevent contamination between products, by thorough cleaning and scheduling gluten-free production before gluten-containing batches.
But the risk can never be fully eliminated in facilities that make a variety of products. That’s why dedicated facilities offer the highest level of assurance for sensitive individuals.
What to Look for When Shopping
When selecting a fajita seasoning, read labels carefully and consider these factors:
Check for Wheat or Barley
Scan the ingredients list for any mention of wheat, barley, soy sauce or other typical gluten sources. If you see them, put the product back on the shelf and look for another option.
Call the Company
If the packaging makes no mention of allergens or being gluten-free, call the manufacturer. Ask them directly about their production processes and policies regarding gluten. This extra step provides helpful peace of mind.
Look for Certified Labels
Seek out fajita seasoning that is specifically labeled as “gluten-free” or has an official certification seal like the one below from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO):
This logo means the GFCO has audited the facility and manufacturing processes to verify gluten-free integrity.
Choose Dedicated Brands
Some brands make nothing but gluten-free spice blends in their facility. They offer the highest assurance compared to mixed-use facilities. Popular dedicated brands include Spicely and Stonewall Kitchen.
Make It Yourself
For total control, make homemade fajita seasoning using simple whole food ingredients you select. This avoids any questions about manufacturing practices. See the recipe in the next section.
Gluten-Free Homemade Fajita Seasoning
Making your own fajita seasoning at home takes minimal effort. Here is an easy recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl and stir or whisk to thoroughly combine.
- Transfer to an airtight container like a jar or spice bottle for storage.
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months.
- Sprinkle over chicken, steak, shrimp or veggies as desired before cooking.
Making a batch of this homemade blend allows you to control the ingredients while still delivering the classic fajita seasoning flavor. Feel free to adjust any amounts to suit your tastes.
Cooking Gluten-Free Fajitas
Once you have a gluten-free seasoning blend, use it to make tasty fajitas:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak or chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 Tbsp fajita seasoning
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Corn or flour tortillas, warmed
- Toppings like shredded cheese, guacamole, salsa, sour cream
Instructions:
- Coat meat and vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning blend.
- Cook meat on grill or in skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until done.
- Add peppers and onions and cook another 5 minutes until softened.
- Serve fajita mix in warm tortillas with desired toppings.
Be sure to use certified gluten-free tortillas to keep the whole meal gluten-free. This flavorful dinner comes together quickly and satisfies any Mexican food craving.
Common Store-Bought Brands
Here are some popular national brands of fajita seasoning that are labeled gluten-free:
McCormick Grill Mates
– Specifically labeled “Gluten Free”
Lawry’s
– States “No MSG, No Gluten”
Mrs. Dash
– Calls out “Gluten Free”
Tones
– Indicates “Gluten Free”
Spike
– Label reads “Gluten Free”
Local or House Brands
Smaller, local brands or generic house brands at stores may not have a gluten-free label even when they are safe to consume. Always check the ingredients and call the maker if in doubt.
Some examples include:
Kroger
Carries fajita seasoning under its private brand. You must read the ingredient statement on the back or contact customer service to confirm gluten-free status.
H-E-B
H-E-B fajita seasoning does not list wheat-based ingredients but is not marked gluten-free. Check with the store or manufacturer to be certain.
365 Everyday Value
The Whole Foods house brand marks its organic fajita seasoning as “verified gluten-free” on the label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about fajita seasoning and gluten:
Is all fajita seasoning gluten-free?
No, not necessarily. Some brands may include gluten or pose cross-contamination risks. Check labels and contact manufacturers to confirm gluten status if it’s unclear.
What about corn-based ingredients like cornstarch in seasoning?
Ingredients like cornstarch and corn flour are gluten-free. Only wheat, barley, rye and their derivatives contain gluten.
Will chili powder or cumin contain gluten?
Pure chili powder and cumin spice do not naturally contain gluten. However, verify the specific brand you are using, as facilities and ingredient sources can vary.
Can I use a homemade blend if I’m sensitive to cross-contamination?
Yes, homemade seasoning with verified gluten-free ingredients should be safe for those with celiac or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Is fajita seasoning safe for a gluten-free diet?
Most brands of fajita seasoning are naturally gluten-free. Those labeled “gluten-free” or specifically produced in allergen-free facilities are safest for gluten-free diets.
The Bottom Line
Fajita seasoning adds big, bold flavor but generally does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Check labels to confirm and look for brands that are certified gluten-free or explicitly state they are produced in a dedicated facility for the most assurance. Making your own gluten-free spice mix at home is also an easy alternative. With the right blend, you can kick up your fajitas for a tasty gluten-free Tex-Mex meal.
