Gluten-free question

[gardenmommy]

I am making a meal for some friends who are completely gluten-free. They cannot have any gluten, as my friend's DH reacts to even trace amounts. Can I assume that my coconut milk is gluten-free, even though it doesn't specifically say it is? It is Thai Kitchen organic coconut milk, and the ingredients say organic coconut milk, and guar gum. I want to be really sure before I use it in my recipe. Thanks!

[deditus]

No, you can not generally assume that something is gluten free just because there are no gluten ingredients listed. However, Thai Kitchen coconut milk is gluten free.

[gardenmommy]

Thank you. I am pretty good about reading labels for them (we share meals semi-regularly), but I've learned the hard way that gluten hides in lots of places I wouldn't normally even think of. I just wasn't sure if it was somehow hiding in my coconut milk in the guar gum or something.

[blueridgewoman]

Yep, it's hard-- a lot of people who are gluten intolerant can't handle things that are even made in a facility that processes wheat. I can, and that makes things easier, but it's tricky sometimes to find things that specifically guarantee they're gluten free.

As an aside, I once found a gluten free baking mix that said it was processed in a facility that also processed wheat. Relatively pointless for most people, I'd say, and totally against common sense but...whatever.

[gardenmommy]

I solved the problem when I realized that they are not dairy free, just gluten free. I was wanting to make a cream-of type soup replacement, since I haven't yet found one that is certified gluten free. I just made up my own version with gluten free flour as the thickener.

Thank you for your input, I do appreciate it. I am constantly amazed at the ways it hides in things, sort of like HFCS is in everything, too. Totally a PITA, IMO.