Is seitan gluten-free?
Seitan is not gluten-free. It's made from vital wheat gluten — the wheat protein that celiacs must avoid — and is effectively pure gluten shaped into a meat substitute. Seitan is also sold as "wheat meat," "wheat protein," or "mock duck." There is no gluten-free version of seitan.
When it's safe
- You're avoiding it — seitan has no celiac-safe form
- You're using substitutes: tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, jackfruit, or soy curls
When to avoid it
- The menu lists "seitan," "wheat meat," "wheat protein," "mock duck," or "mock chicken"
- A vegan dish at a restaurant lists "house-made protein" without specifying
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Download FreeFrequently asked questions
What is seitan made of?
Vital wheat gluten, sometimes mixed with flour, water, and seasonings. The gluten is isolated from wheat flour by rinsing out the starch — what's left is concentrated wheat protein.
What's a gluten-free alternative to seitan?
Firm tofu, tempeh, soy curls, jackfruit, and portobello mushrooms are the closest texture substitutes. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger are also gluten-free.