Is Ice Cream Gluten-Free?

Ice cream can be gluten-free depending on its ingredients and how it’s processed.

Common, single flavor ice creams such as strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, or coffee are often gluten-free. However, review the ingredient list for additional additives, starches or flavorings that contain gluten. Look for the words “gluten-free” or gluten-free certifications when you buy ice cream in the grocery store.

Gluten-Containing Ice Creams

Some ice cream flavors are at higher risk for containing gluten, such as rocky road or moose tracks, but can be made gluten-free. Flavors with gluten-containing ingredients in the name such as cookie dough, cookies and cream, cheesecake or birthday cake usually contain gluten, though sometimes can be made with gluten-free ingredients.

Ice cream cones typically contain gluten unless labelled otherwise. Many toppings can also contain gluten, such as cookie crumbles. Be sure to read labels and ask questions!

Avoiding Cross-Contact in the Ice Cream Shop

Ice cream can have cross-contact with gluten in the manufacturing process or at an ice cream shoppe or restaurant. Spoons, scoops, and even soft serve machines can touch a flavor containing gluten then be used on a “gluten-free” order. Ask to have your ice cream scoop cleaned or a fresh scoop used prior to being served your order.