Is Tofu Gluten-Free? + Best Gluten-Free Tofu Brands

If you are gluten-free but also trying to eat more plant-based protein, you may find yourself wondering: “Is tofu gluten-free?”

Tofu might be associated with those who live a vegan lifestyle but MOST plain tofu is also gluten-free. Keep reading to find out more…

This article will answer the question “is tofu gluten free?” including a list of the best gluten-free brands to try and where to buy them. 

Use the Table of Contents below to navigate to the section of your choice or keep reading for the best gluten-free tofu brands.

What Is Tofu?

Tofu, which originated in China, is made by curdling soy milk and then pressing the curds into solid blocks. This is a different preparation process than tempeh, which is made by first fermenting the soybeans.

You can find firm, soft, or smooth tofu, and can be used in many different ways. Tofu is a largely popular staple item for those that live a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle as it is a great source of protein. 

What Is Silken Tofu?

Silken tofu is undrained and unprocessed tofu. It is made similarly to block tofu, except that the soy milk is coagulated without curdling the milk. 

Silken tofu is the most popular option of all the varieties of tofu that is available and is a great substitute for yogurt or milk in a tofu smoothie.

What Is Soft Tofu? 

Soft tofu is delicate and has not been pressed for very long. It can fall apart easily if it is not handled correctly.

This type of tofu provides a creamy texture which would be great to use in your sauces, smoothies, and pies. 

This type of tofu is not great for freezing. 

What Is Firm Tofu?

Firm tofu is much more solid than soft tofu and is great for frying as it stays together much better. When using firm tofu, you will want to press and drain it.

It may be a good idea to invest in a tofu press like this one if you are planning to use firm tofu on a regular basis. This will help you squeeze out the extra moisture.

If you are looking to freeze tofu, this is a great option. 

What Is Extra Firm Tofu?

Extra firm tofu is similar to firm tofu but you will notice a difference in the texture.

Because of how firm it is, if you are looking to marinate tofu this would not be a good option as it does not absorb marinade well. The best way to use extra firm tofu is by deep or pan frying. This can result in an amazing texture like in this recipe for Crispy Tofu with Balsamic Tomatoes.

Is Tofu Gluten-Free?

If you're wondering does tofu have gluten, then you're in luck. Yes, most plain tofu is gluten-free.

However, if you are looking for flavored tofu, you will want to check the labels and ensure that it does not include any gluten-containing ingredients. Many of the flavored tofu options may contain soy sauce which often contains gluten.

Gluten is a protein found in various different grains, including wheat, rye, barley, or oats if they weren’t grown separately from gluten-containing grains. You might see these ingredients on the ingredients list of the nutrient label instead of the word ‘gluten’ itself.

According to the FDA, a product can only be labeled as gluten-free in the United States if it contains less than 20 ppm of gluten, so you will want to watch for cross-contact during processing.

How To Make Sure Your Tofu Is Gluten-Free?

When checking to see if tofu is gluten-free you will want to look at the packaging to see if it is certified gluten-free or check the nutrition label to make sure it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. 

If you are eating at a restaurant, you will want to check with them to see if their tofu is gluten and how it is prepared. Fried tofu could possibly be coated with gluten-containing ingredients.

Is Tofu Safe For Celiacs?

Most plain tofu is gluten-free as it contains no wheat, rye, or barley making it safe for those who are celiac. 

Additionally, tofu is a food that individuals with Celiac Disease may find a really healthful addition to their diet!

Those with Celiac Disease tend to have diets that are low in protein while high in saturated fat. Tofu is high in plant-based protein while also containing very little saturated fat.

With more and more people being diagnosed with Celiac Disease it is important to know the best tofu brands that are safe to consume.

Is Tofu Vegan And Gluten-Free?

Tofu is a staple item for those that live a vegan lifestyle as it is a great replacement for meat with a great source of protein.

Most plain tofu is gluten-free, however, some varieties of tofu will contain gluten so you will want to check the ingredients on the label. 

Some of my favorite gluten free tofu brands are listed below so you can safely enjoy tofu that is both vegan and gluten-free!

Best Gluten-Free Tofu Brands:

Below are some brands of gluten-free tofu

• Mori-Nu Extra Firm Silken Tofu
• Good & Gather Organic Extra-Firm Tofu
• Hodo Extra Firm Tofu

Mori-Nu Extra Firm Silken Tofu

Mori-Nu Extra Firm Silken Tofu is certified gluten-free, and dairy-free and is shelf stable until it’s opened. 

Enjoy this excellent source of protein with your meals, but you can also diversify and use it in your baking, smoothies, and rice bowls. 

You can shop for Mori-Nu Extra Firm Silken Tofu on Thrive Market here, or you can find it on Amazon here.

Good & Gather Organic Extra-Firm Tofu

Good & Gather Organic Extra-Firm Tofu is certified gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO. 

This tofu has 9g of protein per serving and is great for stir-fry, baking, and grilling. 

You can find Good & Gather Extra-Firm Tofu on Target here.

Hodo Extra-Firm Tofu

Hodo Extra-Firm Tofu is gluten-free, certified organic, and non-GMO.

This ready-to-cook tofu is a great source of protein, calcium, and iron. 

Click here to find Hodo Extra-Firm Tofu at Target.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tofu And Gluten:

Is Trader Joe’s Tofu Free Of Gluten?

No, Trader Joe’s Organic Baked Teriyaki Tofu is not gluten-free.

Is 365 Tofu Gluten-Free?

Yes, 365 Tofu is gluten-free.

Is Moe’s Tofu Gluten-Free?

Yes, Moe’s Tofu is gluten-free.

Is Sweetgreen Tofu Gluten-Free?

Yes, Sweetgreen tofu is gluten-free.

Is Chipotle Tofu Gluten-Free?

Yes, Chipotle tofu is gluten-free.

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