Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause serious health issues. As a result, these individuals must follow a strict gluten-free diet and avoid foods that contain gluten.
Quick Answer
McCormick garlic powder is labeled as gluten-free. According to McCormick’s website, all McCormick spices, herbs, seasonings, and extracts do not contain gluten from wheat, barley, rye or any gluten-containing grain. However, McCormick recommends that individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity consult with their healthcare professional before consuming its products.
About McCormick Garlic Powder
McCormick garlic powder is made from real garlic that has been dehydrated and ground into a fine powder. According to the ingredient list, it contains only one ingredient – garlic.
Garlic powder provides the aromatic flavor of garlic without the texture of fresh garlic cloves. It is a popular ingredient in many savory dishes and is convenient to keep on hand for seasoning meats, vegetables, sauces, and more.
Nutrition Facts
The nutrition information for a 1/4 teaspoon serving (0.7 grams) of McCormick garlic powder is:
- Calories: 5
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Garlic powder is low in calories, fat, and sodium. It contains trace amounts of carbohydrates and protein.
Gluten Information
On McCormick’s website, they state that all of their products are gluten-free. McCormick spices, herbs, seasonings, and extracts do not contain any gluten from wheat, barley, rye or other gluten-containing grains.
They do note that their products are produced in facilities that also process wheat and other grains that contain gluten. However, they follow allergen control procedures to prevent cross-contamination.
McCormick’s Customer Questions section on their website addresses the topic of gluten directly:
Q: Are McCormick spices gluten free?
A: Yes, our spices, herbs, seasonings and extracts are gluten free.
They go on to reiterate that individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should consult their healthcare professional about consuming McCormick products produced in facilities that also handle wheat.
Third Party Testing
McCormick spices and seasonings have been tested for gluten by independent third-party laboratories. The testing verifies that McCormick products do not contain detectable levels of gluten.
For example, NSF International, a public health organization that tests and certifies consumer products, has certified that McCormick garlic powder and several other McCormick seasonings meet the requirements to be labeled “gluten-free” based on gluten levels below 20 parts per million (ppm).
Certifications
McCormick states that their products labeled as “gluten-free” meet all regulations set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other international food agencies for using a gluten-free claim.
McCormick garlic powder and other seasonings also display certification symbols from organizations like the Celiac Support Association and the Celiac Sprue Association for successfully meeting the <20ppm gluten threshold.
Risk of Cross-Contamination
While McCormick garlic powder contains no gluten ingredients, there is a small chance of cross-contamination during production, as the facilities also process wheat. McCormick has procedures in place to thoroughly clean equipment and prevent cross-contact between products.
However, the brand states that absolute gluten-free status cannot be guaranteed. Individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerances may want to exercise additional caution or avoid the product.
It’s important to note that other brands of garlic powder may be produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities, which eliminates the risk of any cross-contamination.
Contacting the Manufacturer
For consumers that need absolute certainty about gluten content, McCormick encourages directly reaching out to their Consumer Affairs department. Their consumer hotline and contact information is available on their website.
The McCormick Consumer Affairs team can provide the latest information about manufacturing processes and gluten testing for individual products. They may also be able to look up packaging lot codes to check manufacturing dates and facilities if consumers have concerns about potential gluten exposure.
Should You Avoid McCormick Garlic Powder If You’re Gluten-Free?
For most individuals following a gluten-free diet, McCormick garlic powder can be considered gluten-free and safe to consume. The product contains no gluten-containing ingredients and is reliably tested to verify gluten levels below 20ppm.
However, for those with celiac disease or an extreme sensitivity, the small risk of cross-contamination may still exist. In those instances, choosing a garlic powder processed in a dedicated gluten-free facility may be a safer option.
As always, it’s recommended that individuals with medical concerns consult their healthcare provider about the suitability of specific products.
Other Options
Some alternative garlic powder options processed in gluten-free facilities include:
- Buffalo David Bitton Garlic Powder
- Frontier Co-op Garlic Powder
- Spice Hunter Garlic Powder
- Simply Organic Garlic Powder
When in doubt, check the label for a gluten-free certification or contact the manufacturer directly to confirm their production practices.
Cooking and Baking with McCormick Garlic Powder
McCormick garlic powder can be used as a flavorful and convenient substitute for fresh garlic in almost any savory recipe. Here are some tips for cooking and baking with garlic powder:
Substitution Ratio
As a rule of thumb, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder substitutes for each clove of fresh garlic called for in a recipe. So for example:
- 1 clove garlic = 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 3 cloves garlic = 3/8 tsp (or 1 1/4 tsp) garlic powder
- 5 cloves garlic = 5/8 tsp (or 2 1/2 tsp) garlic powder
Intensity
Garlic powder has a very concentrated flavor, so start with a smaller amount than the recipe calls for and adjust to taste. It’s easier to add more than take away.
When to Add
For maximum flavor, add garlic powder early in the cooking process to allow time for the flavors to develop. In dishes with shorter cook times, seasoning with garlic powder right before serving is okay.
Storage
Store garlic powder in a cool, dark place and use within 2-3 years for optimal freshness. Properly stored, garlic powder can last for 3-4 years.
Common Uses
Garlic powder is a versatile seasoning that can enhance the flavor of many savory preparations. It’s great to have on hand for:
- Marinades and rubs for meats
- Seasoning roasted vegetables like potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, etc.
- Spice blends like taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, etc.
- Sauces, soups, stews, and chilis
- Salad dressings and marinades
- Sprinkled over pizza, pasta, breads
Is Garlic Powder Gluten-Free?
In general, most garlic powder on the market is gluten-free. The main ingredient is usually dehydrated garlic.
However, some garlic powder blends may contain anti-caking agents or other added ingredients that could be problematic. Maltodextrin and artificial colors derived from barley are two potential sources of gluten.
To identify truly gluten-free garlic powder options, look for:
- Single ingredient garlic powder
- “Gluten-free” labelled products
- Brands processed in dedicated gluten-free facilities
As always, check the label carefully and contact the manufacturer with any questions.
Gluten-Free Garlic Powder Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes that showcase garlic powder:
Gluten-Free Chicken Shawarma
This chicken is marinated in a blend of garlic powder, cumin, paprika and other spices. It’s served with rice, lettuce and tomato.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic powder, parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Gluten-Free Pizza
Garlic powder is sprinkled on the crust of this homemade gluten-free pizza before topping with sauce and other ingredients.
Vegetable Soup
This hearty vegetable soup gets a flavor boost from garlic powder in addition to thyme, rosemary and oregano.
Cajun Shrimp
Shrimp gets a quick sear in a cast iron skillet with Cajun seasoning containing garlic powder, cayenne, paprika and black pepper.
Conclusion
In summary, McCormick garlic powder is considered gluten-free according to the manufacturer and based on independent third-party testing. It contains no gluten-based ingredients. However, a slight chance of cross-contamination exists since McCormick facilities also process wheat.
The majority of people following a gluten-free diet can safely consume McCormick garlic powder. But those with celiac disease or a high sensitivity may want to opt for a brand processed in a dedicated gluten-free facility to eliminate any risk.
McCormick garlic powder is a versatile gluten-free seasoning that adds robust garlic flavor to many savory recipes and dishes. When stored properly in a cool, dark place, it will maintain optimal freshness and flavor for 2-3 years.
