Is Fresh Ground Horseradish Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the chemistry of a product to determine safety. When we examine Horseradish, we are dealing with a cruciferous vegetable, specifically the root. This is naturally free of gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. It provides the signature heat through compounds called isothiocyanates.

The preservation and flavor balance comes from Distilled Vinegar. There is a common misconception that malt vinegar contains gluten, but distillation effectively removes protein molecules. Because the alcohol in the vinegar is distilled, the final product is chemically pure acetic acid and water, making it safe for a gluten-free diet. Salt and Water are standard, safe additives.

The only ingredient that requires a moment of scrutiny is Natural Flavor. In the context of savory condiments, this is typically derived from vegetable sources or spices. It is highly unlikely to contain gluten, but strict celiacs should know that 'Natural Flavor' can technically contain hydrolyzed wheat protein in rare instances. However, in a product like this, it is almost certainly vegetable-based.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Fresh Ground Horseradish is incredibly light. It is essentially a zero-calorie condiment, with a single serving often containing fewer than 5 calories. It contains 0 grams of fat and 0 grams of sugar, making it an excellent flavor enhancer for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Because it lacks significant macronutrients, it fits easily into strict diet limits. It does not spike blood sugar, nor does it contribute to daily fat intake goals. The sodium content is the only watch-out, as salt is necessary for preservation, but it is comparable to other condiments like mustard.