List of Gluten-Free Tofu Brands

Tofu

Verywell / Alexandra Shytsman

Plain tofu ought to be gluten-free, but there is a risk of cross contamination at the farm level. While tofu is made only with soybeans and a chemical called a coagulant that curdles the mixture until it forms the white gel we know and love, it has to be carefully source to ensure it is gluten-free. More on whether tofu is gluten free below.

Is Tofu Gluten-Free?

Tofu is not made from grains, but that doesn't mean it's always gluten-free. Soybeans are subject to significant gluten cross-contamination at the farm level. Farmers often grow wheat and soy in a rotation, using the same equipment for both. Therefore, producers of tofu frequently take extra steps in the form of careful sourcing and testing to make certain they can legally call their products "gluten-free."

Overall, tofu can be a high-protein vegetarian gluten-free diet staple, especially​ for gluten-free vegetarians and vegans looking for a reliable source of non-animal protein. Its versatility lends itself well to a variety of naturally gluten-free meals, so it's especially important to choose a brand that's safe on the gluten-free diet.

Gluten-Free Tofu Brands

Here's the list of major national and regional tofu brands in the U.S., along with their gluten-free status.

Azumaya Tofu

This tofu brand, made by Vitasoy USA Inc., is available in Extra Firm, Lite Extra Firm, Firm, and Silken. According to a customer service representative, the tofu—which is listed as "gluten-free" on its website—is made in a gluten-free facility. However, be aware that Azumaya also sells marinated baked tofu products, which contain soy sauce. These are not gluten-free.

House Foods Tofu

House Foods makes a variety of different premium and organic tofu, both plain and seasoned. According to a customer service representative, the products are made in a gluten-free facility and tested at least once a year with GlutenTox, which tests to approximately five parts per million of gluten.

The company's seasoned tofu options do not contain gluten, so this brand may be a good choice for those seeking to avoid the possibility of gluten cross-contamination at the manufacturing plant level.

Morinaga Silken Tofu

Made by Mori-Nu, Morinaga tofu is non-GMO and is certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). It's available in firm, light, soft and silken varieties. A Mori-Nu customer service rep says that "we submit for the most sensitive gluten test. Our most recent analysis by a third party laboratory indicated a less than 5 ppm result for all Morinaga Silken Tofu products." This also would be a good choice for those who are particularly sensitive to trace gluten.

Nasoya Tofu

Like Azumaya's tofu, Nasoya is made by Vitasoy USA Inc. It comes in extra firm, firm, lite firm, soft, cubed and sprouted (tofu made with sprouted soybeans). The tofu is listed as gluten-free on the company's website and is made in the same gluten-free facility as Azumaya tofu.

Small Planet Organics Tofu

This small producer produces only tofu—some with organic herbs and spices—at a dedicated gluten-free facility. Small Planet Organics does not test its tofu for gluten cross-contamination.

By Jane Anderson
Jane Anderson is a medical journalist and an expert in celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and the gluten-free diet.