Is baking powder safe for celiacs?

In the U.S., almost always yes — major brands use corn starch as the filler. Always read the label, especially on imported European or Asian brands.

Is baking soda gluten free?

Yes, pure baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is naturally gluten free.

What's the difference between baking powder and baking soda?

Baking soda is a pure base that needs an acid (lemon juice, buttermilk) to activate. Baking powder includes the acid already and only needs liquid + heat. They're not interchangeable 1:1.

Are aluminum-free baking powders gluten free?

Yes. Rumford and Hain Featherweight are aluminum-free and gluten free. Aluminum is unrelated to gluten content.

Is Baking Powder Gluten Free? Argo, Rumford & Clabber Girl Verdict

Reviewed by: GlutenSafe Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-29

What baking powder contains

Standard double-acting baking powder is three ingredients:

An alkaline base — sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
An acid — cream of tartar, sodium aluminum sulfate, or monocalcium phosphate
A starch filler — almost always corn starch (occasionally potato or wheat)

Confirmed GF baking powders

Argo Baking Powder — corn starch base, naturally GF
Clabber Girl — corn starch base, naturally GF
Rumford — corn starch base, naturally GF; aluminum-free
Bob’s Red Mill — GFCO certified
Hain Featherweight — naturally GF, sodium- and aluminum-free

Make your own (single use)

If you’re unsure of your baking powder, mix this on demand:

¼ tsp baking soda + ½ tsp cream of tartar = 1 tsp baking powder

Watch for in non-U.S. products

European, UK, and Asian baking powders occasionally use wheat starch as the filler. Always check the label. EU regulations require wheat to be disclosed in the allergen statement.

Sources

Is Baking Powder Gluten Free? — Beyond Celiac (2024)