Is Ghost pepper hot sauce Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this sauce is safe, we need to look at the chemistry of heat and preservation. The primary heat source is Ghost pepper (Naga Jolokia), a fruit that naturally contains zero gluten proteins. It is often paired with hot pepper extract (capsaicin), which is derived purely from peppers and is chemically gluten-free.

For acidity and shelf stability, manufacturers use acetic acid (the main component of vinegar). While some vinegars are grain-based, the acetic acid used in most hot sauces is derived from corn or sugar cane, making it safe for a gluten-free diet. The texture and flavor profile are bolstered by roasted garlic pulp and vegetable oil, both of which are naturally free of gluten. Finally, salt is a mineral and poses no risk.

While we found no gluten flags in this specific ingredient list, it is always important to note that hot pepper extract can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle other ingredients. However, based on the provided data, this specific formulation is clean.

Nutritional Value

Ghost pepper hot sauce is generally very low in calories, making it an excellent flavor enhancer for those watching their weight. The base ingredients—peppers, garlic, and vinegar—contribute negligible fat and sugar. The vegetable oil present in the emulsion adds a minimal amount of fat, but a single serving (usually one teaspoon) typically contains less than 5 calories. It fits well into Keto, Paleo, and low-carb diets due to its lack of carbohydrates. However, the high sodium content from the salt is something to monitor if you have hypertension.