Karo corn syrup is a popular sweetener used in baking, cooking, and as a table syrup. It is made from corn starch and contains no gluten ingredients. However, there has been some debate around whether Karo syrup may contain traces of gluten due to manufacturing processes.
In the opening paragraphs, we will provide a quick answer to the question of whether Karo contains gluten followed by more details.
Quick Answer
Karo corn syrup does not contain any gluten ingredients. It is considered gluten-free by the FDA standards of containing less than 20ppm of gluten. However, there is a small chance of cross-contamination during manufacturing. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should exercise caution and contact the manufacturer.
What is Karo Corn Syrup?
Karo corn syrup is made from corn starch. The starch goes through an enzymatic process to break it down into glucose. The three main ingredients are:
- Corn syrup
- High fructose corn syrup
- Salt
There are no wheat, barley, rye or other gluten-containing ingredients in Karo corn syrup. It is considered a gluten-free food by the FDA definition.
Karo Corn Syrup Varieties
Karo offers several varieties of corn syrup:
- Karo Light Corn Syrup – original formula made with real vanilla
- Karo Dark Corn Syrup – deeper flavor from added refiners’ syrup
- Karo Pancake Syrup – light syrup with buttery flavor
- Karo Red Label Syrup – classic Karo syrup flavor
- Karo Blue Label Syrup – real maple taste
None of these varieties contain gluten ingredients according to their labeling. They are all produced in facilities that also process wheat, which increases the risk of cross-contamination.
Gluten Free Status
While Karo contains no actual gluten ingredients, the major question is whether it may contain traces of gluten from manufacturing.
FDA Regulations
The FDA sets guidelines for when a food can be labeled “gluten-free”:
- It does not contain wheat, rye, barley or their derivatives
- It contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten
Since Karo corn syrup does not contain wheat, rye or barley, it fulfills the first requirement.
The 20ppm threshold is designed to accommodate the reality of shared manufacturing equipment. Most experts consider foods with less than 20ppm of gluten to be safe for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Testing
There is no evidence that Karo corn syrup has been tested to quantify its potential gluten content.
The Karo website states that their products do not contain gluten ingredients but does not confirm they are tested to meet the 20ppm threshold.
So while Karo likely falls under 20ppm, there is no guarantee.
Manufacturing Processes
Karo corn syrup is produced by ACH Food Companies. They manufacture it in facilities that also process wheat-based foods.
This means there is a risk of cross-contamination through shared equipment, although Karo claims they adhere to allergen control procedures.
So in summary:
- Karo does not contain gluten ingredients
- It is likely to fall under 20ppm gluten but not confirmed
- Manufactured alongside wheat foods, increasing contamination risk
For these reasons, Karo corn syrup cannot be considered 100% gluten-free without testing.
Is Karo Corn Syrup Safe for Celiacs?
Whether Karo corn syrup is safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is debatable.
Celiac Disease
For those with celiac disease, ingesting any amount of gluten can trigger an autoimmune reaction damaging the small intestine.
There is no evidence that Karo syrup has been tested to validate a less than 20ppm gluten threshold. Manufacturing processes may allow trace amounts of contamination.
While the risk is low, there is no guarantee Karo is 100% gluten-free to the level considered safe for celiac patients.
Gluten Sensitivity
Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may be able to tolerate small amounts of cross-contact.
Symptoms vary greatly, but issues like digestive problems, headache, fatigue and joint pain can occur with gluten ingestion.
The potential trace amounts in Karo corn syrup may be low enough for those with moderate gluten sensitivity. However, individuals need to assess their own tolerance levels.
Wheat Allergy
Karo corn syrup itself does not contain wheat ingredients. However, manufacturing processes open up the possibility of wheat cross-contact.
Those with wheat allergy should be cautious with Karo syrup and contact the manufacturer for details on allergen control procedures. Even small amounts of wheat contamination could trigger an allergic reaction.
Is Karo Syrup Safe on a Gluten Free Diet?
Whether Karo corn syrup can safely be part of a gluten-free diet depends on the sensitivity level:
- People with celiac disease should use caution as even small amounts of gluten can cause intestinal damage.
- People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may tolerate potential traces, but it depends on individual tolerance.
- People without gluten issues can safely consume Karo as part of a gluten-free diet.
The uncertainty around potential cross-contamination makes it difficult to consider Karo 100% gluten-free for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Alternatives
There are other corn syrup brands processed in dedicated gluten-free facilities. These include:
- Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club)
- 365 (Whole Foods Market)
- Natural Value (Aldi)
- Kirkland (Costco)
Checking for certification by GFCO (Gluten Free Certification Organization) is recommended for celiacs. Dark molasses can also be used as an alternative.
Cross-Reactivity with Corn
Some people allergic to corn may wonder if Karo corn syrup is safe for them. Since it is derived from corn, there is potential for an allergic reaction.
Those with a corn allergy should avoid Karo syrup and other corn-derived products like:
- Cornstarch
- Corn oil
- Corn flour
- Cornmeal
- Polenta
- Grits
If you have a corn allergy, make sure to read labels carefully and avoid products containing corn.
Contacting the Manufacturer
For those with celiac disease or food allergies, contacting the manufacturer directly can provide the most accurate information.
You can call ACH Food Companies at 1-800-553-6475 for questions on:
- Allergen control procedures
- Whether products are tested for gluten
- Risk of cross-contamination
Let them know your sensitivity level so they can advise whether their products are suitable for your dietary needs.
Product formulations can also change over time. So check regularly for up-to-date allergen information.
| Brand | Potential for Gluten | FDA Standard | Celiac-Safe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karo Syrup | Low | Meets requirements | Use caution |
| Member’s Mark | Extremely low | Meets requirements | Yes, GFCO certified |
The Bottom Line
In summary:
- Karo corn syrup contains no gluten ingredients
- It likely falls under 20ppm gluten but there is some risk of cross-contamination
- Karo cannot be considered 100% gluten-free without independent testing
- Celiacs need to exercise caution and contact manufacturer
- Non-celiac gluten sensitive individuals may tolerate potential traces
- Gluten-free alternatives exist for highest level of safety
While Karo corn syrup has a low chance of containing gluten, the lack of transparency on testing makes it unsuitable for those requiring a strictly gluten-free diet.
Consulting your doctor and contacting the manufacturer directly provides the best information when assessing if Karo fits your dietary needs. For maximum safety, choosing a certified gluten-free brand of corn syrup is recommended for those with celiac disease or wheat allergy.
