Navigating food allergies is challenging, especially for those with gluten restrictions. When it comes to finding a safe and flavorful soy sauce alternative, you might wonder how to distinguish between products that deliver on taste and your dietary needs. This guide highlights the best gluten-free soy sauces for preparing delicious Asian-inspired dishes.
SAN-J: Best Gluten-Free Soy Sauce for Slow Cooking
About 2 million Americans have celiac disease, which is a chronic digestive and immune disorder that wreaks havoc on your intestines. This makes it even more crucial to have access to gluten-free ingredients. If you’ve ever wondered what the best gluten-free soy sauce brand is for slow cooking, SAN-J is the brand you need in your kitchen to up your game.
The company brews its regular and low-sodium Tamari Soy Sauce using 100% soybeans and a Japanese fermentation process spanning eight generations. The outcome is a bold umami bomb that doesn’t dilute, adding incredible flavor to soups, stews and casseroles, even after eight hours in a slow cooker.
Key Features
- Certified gluten-free, vegan and kosher
- Made with 100% soy and no wheat
- Robust umami flavor that holds up in slow cooking
- Non-genetically modified organisms (non-GMO), organic, and fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP)-friendly options
Kari-Out: Best for On-the-Go Diners
Kari-Out produces single-serve gluten-free soy sauce condiment packets for restaurants and food service, while consumers can find and purchase its products through online retailers. It’s a convenient option if you enjoy eating out or traveling, ensuring safe and consistent flavor wherever you go.
The brand manufactures its packets at U.S. facilities with strict quality controls. Kari-Out is also committed to reusable, recyclable and compostable food packaging materials. In April 2024, it announced it was introducing the first plant-based, 100% compostable condiment packet.
Key Features
- Convenient single-serve packets for takeout, dining out and travel
- Consistent flavor for quick meals and allergy-conscious diners
- 100% compostable and plant-based condiment packaging
- Manufactured for restaurants and food service, but available through online retailers
Big Tree Farms: Best for Allergy-Sensitive Diets
Big Tree Farms provides Organic Coco Aminos as an allergy-friendly alternative to conventional soy sauce. It makes its products from organic coconut blossom nectar and Balinese sea salt, guaranteeing it’s fully gluten-free, certified organic, vegan, soy-free and non-GMO. The brand ferments its Coco Aminos in small batches to create the ultimate sweet-and-salty umami flavor.
In addition to the original product, you can also opt for its 34% lower-sodium version or try its Regenerative Organic Certified Coco Aminos product. As a sustainable and ethical company, Big Tree Farms partners with over 19,000 smallholder farmers, 46% of whom are female. It also manages 5,415 acres of land organically.
Key Features
- Certified gluten-free and soy-free
- USDA Organic and Non-GMO
- Low-sodium and regenerative organic coco aminos
- Vegan-friendly and ethically produced
Yamasa: Best for Authentic Asian Cuisine
Although manufactured in the U.S., Yamasa supplies an Organic Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce that draws on 400 years and 13 generations of refined, traditional Japanese brewing techniques. At-home and experienced chefs appreciate this artisanal product for its bold flavor and distinctive red hue.
The company’s tamari contains no gluten, monosodium glutamate (MSG) or GMOs and is certified organic, delivering a safe and tasty option if you have a gluten sensitivity. Yamasa is committed to using the highest-quality ingredients and oversees its unique craftsmanship to earn the trust and loyalty of its consumers.
Key Features
- Certified gluten-free, organic and non-GMO
- No MSG added
- Crafted using centuries-old Japanese methods
- Superior umami and rich color for traditional culinary creations
La Choy: Best for Affordability and Everyday Cooking
La Choy is a popular brand you’ve likely seen at the supermarket. It’s a convenient and budget-friendly option for everyday meals, including stir-fries and marinades. Customers have entrusted its products for decades, with gluten-free alternatives that make Asian-inspired flavors more accessible without sacrificing affordability.
Its clear, transparent labels will put you at ease, although it is always best to look for updated allergen information and certification on the product packaging. As a leading trademark under Conagra Brands, all of La Choy’s production facilities have a Global Food and Safety Initiative certification.
Key Features
- Widely available at U.S. grocery stores
- Affordable option for families and everyday meals
- Light, versatile flavor for stir-fries, marinades and dips
- Clear ingredient list and allergen labeling
Comparing the Best Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Brands
Just because you have dietary restrictions doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the umami flavor of traditional Asian cuisine. When it comes to gluten-free soy sauce brands, you have plenty of options on your plate. Here is a breakdown of what each of the top-rated manufacturers offers in terms of taste and safety.
|
Brand |
Certification and Dietary Focus |
Key Features |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SAN-J |
Gluten-free, vegan, kosher and FODMAP |
100% Soy, no wheat, deep umami and stands up to long cooking |
Slow cooking, marinades and plant-based meals |
|
Kari-Out |
Gluten-free options and portion control |
Single-serve packets and ideal for takeout and travel |
On-the-go diners, restaurants and portion control |
|
Big Tree Farms |
Gluten-free, soy-free, vegan, organic and non-GMO |
Made from coconut blossom nectar — soy sauce substitute for those with soy and gluten allergies |
Allergy-sensitive and paleo/soy-free diets |
|
Yamasa |
Gluten-free, organic, non-GMO and no MSG |
400 years of Japanese craftsmanship, bright red color and authentic umami |
Traditional Asian dishes, sushi and chef-quality |
|
La Choy |
Gluten-free option and family-friendly |
Pantry staple since 1922, affordable, and accessible and versatile use |
Affordability, versatility and everyday cooking |
Selection Criteria for Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Brands and Products
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To ensure the most valuable gluten-free soy sauce options for foodies and at-home chefs, the selection process concentrated on safety and quality. Brands and product alternatives that met the following criteria were prioritized:
- Certified gluten-free by reputable and well-recognized third parties
- Broadly available across the United States, both online and in stores
- Clear labeling of ingredients and allergies
- Suitability for various dietary restrictions
- Unique value proposition, from heritage to on-the-go convenience
- Positive reviews from consumers and culinary experts
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is gluten-free soy sauce safe for people with celiac disease?
Although most certified gluten-free soy sauces are safe for people with celiac disease, you should always look for third-party certifications, review the ingredients and look for cross-contamination risks.
What’s the difference between traditional soy sauce and tamari sauce?
Conventional soy sauce contains wheat and is not safe for those with gluten sensitivities and intolerances. Conversely, tamari sauce is brewed with little to no wheat, making it a much better alternative.
Can you replace soy sauce with coconut aminos in recipes?
You can easily swap out soy sauce for coconut aminos in equal amounts. However, you should expect your dish to have a somewhat sweeter and less salty taste.
Are there low-sodium, gluten-free soy sauces available for purchase?
Typically, Japanese soy sauce brands contain a lot of sodium per serving, while American brands can be even higher. If you’re looking to reduce your sodium intake, brands like SAN-J have low-sodium gluten-free options.
Making the Best Gluten-Free Choice for Your Kitchen
While flavor and quality are important when selecting a gluten-free soy sauce, safety is the most critical criterion. Choose a brand that clearly states its certifications and reputation so you can confidently create meals that align with your tastes and health needs.
