Is Soy Sauce Gluten-Free? A Must-Read Guide for Conscious Eaters

Soy sauce is a staple in kitchens around the world. From stir-fries and sushi to soups and marinades, this umami-rich condiment enhances flavor like no other. But if you’re following a gluten-free diet, you may be wondering: Is soy sauce gluten-free? The answer isn't as straightforward as it may seem. Let’s break it down.

🌾 Gluten Presence Explained

While the word “soy” might make it sound safe, traditional soy sauce is actually not gluten-free. That's because most soy sauces are brewed with wheat in addition to soybeans, water, and salt.

During the fermentation process, the wheat proteins (including gluten) break down, but traces of gluten remain. This means even naturally brewed soy sauces—like SANC Low Sodium Soy Sauce—contain gluten and are not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients in Most Traditional Soy Sauces:

• Soybeans

• Wheat

• Salt

• Water

• Koji (fermentation starter)

If you’re strictly avoiding gluten, it’s crucial to read ingredient labels carefully or opt for sauces that are certified gluten-free.

✅ Certified Gluten-Free Soy Sauces

For those on a gluten-free diet, there’s good news: Certified gluten-free soy sauces do exist.

These products are often made without wheat—using only soybeans, salt, and water. The most popular wheat-free alternative is tamari, a Japanese-style soy sauce known for its richer flavor and smoother finish.

Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Alternatives:

• Tamari (check for “gluten-free” on the label)

• Coconut aminos (soy-free, gluten-free, and slightly sweeter)

• Liquid aminos (gluten-free, though sometimes made with soy)

When shopping, look for the certified gluten-free label to ensure safety and compliance with dietary needs.

❓ Why Most Soy Sauce Has Gluten

You might wonder: Why add wheat in the first place?

Wheat isn't a filler—it plays a crucial role in the fermentation process, influencing the flavor, color, and aroma of traditional soy sauce. For example, SANC Low Sodium Soy Sauce uses a traditional recipe that includes wheat to deliver that deep, authentic umami profile. This classic method is what gives SANC its premium taste, aged naturally for over 6 months with Mozart’s music enhancing fermentation.

However, this wheat-based brewing means that SANC, while lower in sodium and free from MSG and artificial additives, is not gluten-free.

📝 Final Thoughts: Should You Avoid Soy Sauce?

If you're:

• Celiac or severely gluten-intolerant → Avoid traditional soy sauces unless certified gluten-free.

• Mildly gluten-sensitive or health-conscious → Read labels, and consider low-sodium or naturally brewed options for a cleaner profile (like SANC, though it does contain gluten).

• Looking for flavor without compromise → Explore tamari or gluten-free labeled soy sauces for peace of mind.