Does Cocoa Powder Have Gluten?

Last Updated on July 4, 2024

You’ll likely be very familiar with cocoa powder. Whether you sprinkle it on to your morning Cappuccino or use it for flavoring in your delicious bakes; it’s a household staple. Today, we’re going to be answering the question: does cocoa powder have gluten? But first, we must look at what it is, where it comes from and does cocoa have gluten?

What is Cocoa Powder?

Cocoa powder is an unsweetened chocolate product. It adds a rich chocolate flavor to things you likely consume every day. Beverages, desserts – it’s deliciously versatile. Cocoa beans come from the Theobroma cacao tree. The fat from the bean is removed and the substance that remains is then ground into what we know as cocoa powder.

Cacao powder is essentially the same. It’s just considered to be more nutritious and natural. You process cacao beans at low temperatures, rather than high. This is the only real difference between the two powders. It’s often more bitter but is full of magnesium.

Is Cocoa Gluten-Free?

The beans themselves are completely natural and do not have any gluten-containing ingredients. Meaning we can enjoy them at any available opportunity!

Is Cocoa Powder Gluten-Free?

Largely, most cocoa powders you’ll find will be gluten-free. However, products such as hot chocolate powders, chocolate sprinkles, etc. should always be checked. There could be a chance of cross-contact with gluten containing foods. Always opt for products that clearly state they’re “gluten-free” if you can.

Is Dutch Cocoa Powder Gluten-Free?

You may find some products that are referred to as “Dutch cocoa powder”. There isn’t much difference, besides the fact that it’s less acidic. An alkalizing agent is used to lessen the natural acid taste of cocoa. It’s still usually 100% gluten free, so apart from tasting slightly different – it’s perfectly suitable for us. Dutch-process has a far milder taste.

Gluten-Free Cocoa Powder

There’s a huge range of options for us out there, to meet all our cocoa powder needs. Let’s take a look at some favorites.

Hershey’s Special Dark 100% Cacao

We were looking at Dutch Process cocoa’s earlier – and this is one of them! With a sweet, mild taste and it’s claim of being perfect for gluten-free desserts, this is my go-to choice. It’s widely available in your local grocery store and Hershey’s is a household favorite.

The only ingredient is cocoa itself and this product is highly versatile. This particular cocoa is sugar-free and contains just 10 calories per serving.

Baker’s 100% Pure Natural Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

This option is richer and more intense. So depending on how you like your cocoa powder to taste – this may be a better suggestion for you.

It’s made with 100% pure cocoa and is made in the more traditional way (no Dutch process for this one!). It has rave reviews online and is easily accessible and reasonably inexpensive.

Although it contains no gluten-free label, there is nothing to suggest this product is made in a gluten facility.

BetterBody Foods Organic Cacao Powder

While this may be the more luxurious suggestion, treating yourself has to be done sometimes! The flavor is much deeper – and actually more nutritious. BetterBody Cacao Powder is organic, non-GMO, gluten-free and is full of protein, antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C.

Anthony’s Organic Powder

Anthony’s has a range of cocoa powders on offer. Whether you prefer raw or Dutch, Anthony’s has both. Organic, non-GMO, and clearly marked gluten-free – this brand has my seal of approval. It’s verified gluten-free and batch tested. This always gives me peace of mind when buying gluten-free products.

Again, this option is slightly more expensive than the first two we had a look at, but it’s what you can expect when products are organic and go through vigorous processes like batch testing. You get what you pay for!

Conclusion

Satisfying our cocoa powder cravings whilst following a gluten-free lifestyle couldn’t be easier! The only times to be wary of cocoa powder is at venues, such as restaurants and cafes. Those gluten crumbs can get absolutely anywhere. Remember to always check the labels wherever you’re buying your cocoa powder from – which I’m sure you do anyway!