Soy Sauce vs Teriyaki Sauce:
Which Is Gluten-Free?
Two soy-based sauces, one shared problem. Regular soy sauce is brewed with wheat, and most teriyaki sauce is built on soy sauce — so both usually contain gluten unless labeled GF.
Heads up: both Soy Sauce and Teriyaki Sauce typically contain gluten — see the safe alternatives below.
Verdicts last reviewed July 2026 · based on FDA gluten-free labeling rules and Celiac Disease Foundation guidance
Heads up: both Soy Sauce and Teriyaki Sauce typically contain gluten — see the safe alternatives below.
Soy Sauce
No, traditional soy sauce contains wheat and is NOT gluten-free. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Watch out for:
- Present in most Asian restaurant cooking
- Hidden in teriyaki, ponzu, hoisin sauce
- Used in marinades, dressings, and gravies
Teriyaki Sauce
No, most teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce (wheat) as a primary ingredient. Use GF teriyaki sauce made with tamari instead.
Watch out for:
- Soy sauce (wheat) is a primary ingredient
- All restaurant teriyaki is wheat-based
- Teriyaki jerky contains wheat
Gluten-free swaps
Instead of Soy Sauce:
Instead of Teriyaki Sauce:
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Not sure about a specific brand?
Scan any product label with our free AI gluten checker for an instant celiac-safe verdict.
Scan a product free