Foods to Absolutely Avoid if You Suspect Gluten Sensitivity or Celiac Disease

55. Licorice and Chewy Candies

That nostalgic black licorice or soft red twist might pack more than just sugar—it could contain wheat flour used as a binding agent. Many chewy candies use gluten-containing starches to create that satisfying texture, and they rarely advertise it up front. Even fruit-flavored varieties marketed as “natural” can hide gluten under vague terms like “modified food starch.” If you’re craving something sweet, always check for certified gluten-free options or switch to hard candies with minimal ingredients. In the candy aisle, soft often equals sabotage.

56. Vegetarian Meat Substitutes (Seitan & Others)

Going plant-based doesn’t mean going gluten-free. Many meat alternatives are made from seitan—a concentrated wheat gluten used for its meaty texture and protein content. Even some soy-based products contain wheat for binding or flavor. These substitutes are often labeled “vegan” or “high-protein,” but that’s no guarantee they’re safe for a gluten-sensitive gut. Always scan the ingredient list for wheat, barley, or “vital wheat gluten.” If it’s chewy and convincing—it might be exactly what your immune system doesn’t need.