Is Pepperoni Slices Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cured meat is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look for hidden starches or flavorings derived from gluten sources. Fortunately, the ingredient profile for these Pepperoni Slices is straightforward and lacks traditional gluten red flags.

The primary ingredients are PORK and BEEF, which are naturally gluten-free proteins. The preservation and flavoring agents—SALT, SODIUM NITRITE, and spices like OLEORESIN OF PAPRIKA and DEHYDRATED GRANULATED GARLIC—are also safe. A common hidden source of gluten in processed meats is modified food starch or wheat-derived dextrose, but the DEXTROSE used here is typically derived from corn or tapioca, making it safe for celiacs.

Additionally, the acidity regulator LACTIC ACID STARTER CULTURE is gluten-free. While lactic acid can sometimes be produced via fermentation involving gluten-bearing grains, it is highly rare in American food processing and is generally considered safe. The antioxidants BHA and BHT and the preservative CITRIC ACID are synthetic additives that do not contain gluten. Therefore, the formulation is chemically gluten-free.

Nutritional Value

While these pepperoni slices are safe for gluten-free diets, they are a calorie-dense food. A standard serving contains a significant amount of fat, specifically saturated fat, which is typical for cured meats due to the pork and beef content. The sodium levels are also high due to the curing process (salt and sodium nitrite), which is a consideration for those monitoring blood pressure or heart health.

The inclusion of DEXTROSE (a simple sugar) adds a negligible amount of carbohydrates and sugar to the total count. This is used to balance the salty flavor and feed the starter culture. For those on a Keto or low-carb diet, the sugar content is low enough to fit within limits, but for strict low-sodium diets, this product should be consumed in moderation.