Is Kraft Parmesan and Romano cheese gluten-free?

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and fatigue.

People with gluten-related disorders must follow a strictly gluten-free diet, meaning they avoid foods and beverages containing gluten. This includes many common foods like bread, pasta, cereal, baked goods, and beer. Reading ingredient labels carefully and looking for “gluten-free” labels can help identify safe foods.

Is Parmesan cheese gluten-free?

Authentic Parmesan cheese that’s made in Italy from cow’s milk is naturally gluten-free. The basic ingredients are just milk, salt, and rennet. Rennet is an enzyme that’s used to separate the curds from the whey during cheese production. Traditionally, calf rennet was used but most modern Parmesan uses microbial rennet that’s produced from fungi or bacteria.

However, some Parmesan-style cheeses made outside of Italy may contain additional ingredients that are not gluten-free. Flours or starches are sometimes added to improve the texture or prevent caking. To determine if a Parmesan cheese is gluten-free, check the ingredient list for wheat, rye, barley or malt, which can be derived from barley.

Is Kraft grated Parmesan cheese gluten-free?

Yes, Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese is labeled “gluten-free” right on the package. According to Kraft, their Parmesan cheese only contains four basic ingredients: Parmesan cheese (pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes), cellulose powder to prevent caking, potassium sorbate as a preservative, and powdered cellulose added to prevent caking.

None of these ingredients contain any gluten. The cellulose is plant-based fiber derived from trees and the “cheese cultures” refer to bacterial cultures used for fermentation during cheese production.

However, it’s important to carefully read labels, as Kraft also makes other Parmesan-flavored cheeses that contain additional ingredients. For example, Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese & Romano Cheese is not labeled gluten-free. The Romano cheese may bring in ingredients that contain gluten.

Is Romano cheese gluten-free?

Authentic Romano cheese that’s produced in Italy from sheep’s milk is gluten-free. The basic ingredients are sheep’s milk, salt, and enzymes for curdling. Just like Parmesan, Romano cheese is naturally free of gluten.

However, some Romano-style cheeses produced outside of Europe may contain additives that introduce gluten. As with Parmesan, added starches or flours can be problematic. Checking the label is important.

Is Kraft Grated Parmesan and Romano cheese gluten-free?

No, Kraft Grated Parmesan & Romano Cheese is not labeled as gluten-free. In the ingredients list, it states the product contains “Parmesan Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes” and also “Romano Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes.”

The lack of a gluten-free claim on the label suggests the Romano cheese component may introduce gluten. Kraft does note on their website that individuals with food allergies should contact the Consumer Resource Center for more detailed information.

What ingredients in Romano cheese could contain gluten?

There are a few ingredients sometimes added to Romano or Romano-style cheeses that may contain gluten:

  • Wheat starch
  • Barley or wheat flours
  • Malt or malt extract
  • Artificial colors or flavors

Wheat starch and flours are obvious sources of gluten. Malt is typically derived from barley, so malt or malt extract in the ingredients would indicate the presence of gluten.

Artificial colors or flavors may potentially contain gluten depending on how they are produced. Some are made from wheat or barley substrates.

How sensitive to gluten is considered gluten-free?

For a food to be labeled as “gluten-free” in the United States, it must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This threshold was determined to be protective for those with celiac disease.

Some individuals report reacting to levels lower than 20 ppm. However, there is no definitive scientific evidence that consuming very small amounts below this threshold causes issues or prevents healing in those with celiac disease.

What about cross-contamination risk with Kraft Parmesan cheese?

Even when a cheese contains no intrinsic gluten, there is always a risk of cross-contamination during processing and handling. Gluten could be introduced from shared equipment, handling by workers, or during packaging.

Kraft states that their Parmesan cheese is produced in a gluten-free facility. No gluten-containing ingredients are handled on the same lines. This very significantly minimizes any risk of cross-contamination.

Is Kraft Parmesan cheese safe for people with celiac disease?

According to both Kraft and leading celiac disease experts, Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese is considered safe for those with celiac disease. The facilities and procedures used are designed to avoid cross-contamination.

People who are extremely sensitive should take extra precautions such as thoroughly cleaning utensils and surfaces before use. But for most with celiac disease, Kraft Parmesan cheese that’s specifically labeled “gluten-free” can be consumed without issue.

What about other Kraft grated cheeses?

In addition to Parmesan, Kraft also makes grated cheeses labeled “gluten-free” that are safe choices:

  • Kraft Grated Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese
  • Kraft Grated Cheddar Cheese
  • Kraft Shredded Mexican Four Cheese

However, some Kraft products contain gluten or are at high risk for cross-contamination. These include:

  • Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
  • Kraft Cheese Powder
  • All cheeses containing cooked pasta ingredients
  • Cheese sauces and dips

Always carefully read ingredient lists and allergen statements when purchasing any type of cheese product from Kraft or other brands.

Are there non-dairy Parmesan cheese alternatives?

For those who need to avoid dairy along with gluten, there are some non-dairy Parmesan substitutes available:

  • Go Veggie Vegan Parmesan Cheese Alternative
  • Biotas Vegan Parmesan
  • Parmazano Parmesan Style Rice Cheese
  • So Delicious Dairy Free Grated Parmesan Style

These products are all made without any dairy ingredients whatsoever. They are usually made from rice, tapioca, soy, or other gluten-free bases along with flavorings like nutritional yeast to mimic Parmesan flavor.

Be sure to double check the ingredients and labels to verify gluten-free status as well as the lack of dairy ingredients.

What about pre-grated Parmesan and Romano in the store?

When buying pre-grated Parmesan or Romano cheese in the grocery store, checking labels is a must. Ingredient statements should always be reviewed for any sign of gluten-containing ingredients.

Additionally, there is an increased risk of cross-contamination with pre-grated cheese varieties. The grating equipment may be shared with gluten-containing cheeses made with added flours or starches.

To eliminate the uncertainty, choose a brand that is explicitly labeled gluten-free. Or alternatively, purchase a block of Parmesan or Romano cheese and grate it yourself at home.

Is grated cheese made with anti-caking agents safe?

Many pre-grated and powdered cheeses contain anti-caking agents to keep the cheese fluffy and prevent clumping. These are usually made from cellulose derived from plants.

Some brands use potato starch or cornstarch to prevent caking. Unless explicitly labeled gluten-free, these starch ingredients could theoretically contain traces of gluten. Enquiring with the manufacturer may provide more certainty.

What about the cheese powder in boxed pasta?

Pre-packaged boxed pastas and rice dishes often come with a pouch of cheese powder intended to be mixed in. These powdered “cheese” sauces typically contain milk or whey solids along with salt, vegetable oils, and anti-caking agents.

Unfortunately, they almost always contain wheat starch making them unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. Those avoiding gluten need to use caution with powdered cheese packets and look for explicitly gluten-free alternatives.

Can I use grated Parmesan cheese from pizza restaurants?

It’s best to avoid using the Parmesan cheese shakers at pizza restaurants and other dining establishments. The risk of cross-contamination is very high from other menu items containing gluten.

Some pizza places may have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen and carry gluten-free Parmesan cheese that is kept fully separate. But in general, it is not considered safe to use Parmesan shakers that are exposed in shared dining areas.

Is the cellulose in grated Parmesan cheese gluten-free?

Yes, the cellulose used as an anti-caking agent in grated Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. Cellulose is a insoluble fiber extracted from the cell walls of plants. The cellulose used in food products is typically derived from pine trees or cotton.

Some brands may use potato starch or cornstarch instead of cellulose. In this case, unless the package states the product is gluten-free, these starch ingredients could theoretically introduce traces of gluten.

Can Parmesan cheese contain hidden sources of gluten?

Authentic Parmesan cheese made from the ingredients of milk, salt, and enzymes does not naturally contain gluten. However, there are some potential sources of “hidden” gluten that could contaminate cheese:

  • Added flours, starches, or wheat derivatives
  • Malt flavoring derived from barley
  • Unsafe coloring or flavoring agents
  • Gluten cross-contamination from processing

Unsafe additives are more common in cheaper, mass-produced cheeses. High-quality Parmesan and Romano cheeses are less likely to include additives. Checking labels for a gluten-free claim provides assurance.

What about lactose in Parmesan cheese?

Authentic Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk, so it does contain lactose – the natural milk sugar that some people have difficulty digesting. However, most lactose-intolerant individuals can tolerate small amounts of aged, hard cheeses.

The aging process converts much of the lactose into lactic acid, leaving only trace amounts of lactose in the final cheese. The level of lactose in Parmesan is typically less than 1 gram per ounce.

Those with severe lactose intolerance or milk allergies need to avoid Parmesan completely. Vegan dairy-free substitutes provide a safe alternative in this case.

Can you make Parmesan cheese gluten-free?

There’s no need to make Parmesan cheese gluten-free, since authentic Parmesan is inherently gluten-free to begin with. The basic traditional ingredients – milk, salt, enzymes – do not contain gluten.

However, Parmesan-style cheeses made outside of Italy may potentially contain inappropriate additives. You can either choose brands that are labeled gluten-free or contact manufacturers to confirm no gluten sources are used.

Is Kraft Parmesan cheese safe for other food allergies and sensitivities?

For those avoiding dairy due to allergies or intolerance, Kraft Parmesan cheese would not be suitable given it is made from cow’s milk.

Kraft uses microbial rennet, so their Parmesan is safe for those avoiding animal-derived rennet for religious, dietary, or ethical reasons.

The cellulose anti-caking agents used are plant-based. However, Kraft Parmesan cheese could still be a concern for those with certain plant or pollen allergies.

As with any product, it is important to carefully review the labels and contact the manufacturer with any questions or concerns about additional allergens.

What snacks and recipes can I make with Kraft Parmesan cheese?

Here are some ideas for gluten-free snacks and recipes using Kraft Parmesan cheese:

Snacks

  • Parmesan cheese crisps – bake or microwave parchment paper topped with grated Parmesan into crunchy chips
  • Bruschetta topped with tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan
  • Mini Parmesan baked meatballs
  • Hard boiled eggs sprinkled with Parmesan
  • Parmesan kale chips

Recipes

  • Chicken Parmesan baked with gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • Broiled tilapia with lemon and Parmesan
  • Roasted Brussels sprouts with Parmesan
  • Butternut squash Parmesan risotto
  • Penne with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan

Grated Parmesan can be sprinkled onto all kinds of gluten-free pasta dishes, soups, salads, and vegetables.

Kraft Parmesan also works great blended into gluten-free dips, sauces, dressings, and casseroles. Always use caution with packaged products containing Parmesan to verify gluten-free status.

The bottom line

Authentic Parmesan and Romano cheeses are naturally gluten-free. However, some packaged grated cheeses may contain questionable additives or risk cross-contamination.

Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese marked gluten-free is considered a safe option for most people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. But individuals who are highly sensitive may want to take extra precautions.

Carefully reading labels and contacting manufacturers about cheese ingredients is key to identifying gluten-free products. When doubt, choose alternative cheeses that are explicitly labeled gluten-free or grate your own cheese fresh from a block.

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