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Sauces & Condiments

Is Teriyaki Sauce Gluten-Free?

🚫 NO — Contains Gluten

Quick Answer

No, most teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce (wheat) as a primary ingredient. Use GF teriyaki sauce made with tamari instead.

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The Full Answer

Teriyaki sauce is traditionally made from soy sauce, mirin (rice wine), and sugar. Since regular soy sauce contains wheat as a primary ingredient (40-60%), teriyaki sauce is NOT gluten-free.

This applies to bottled teriyaki sauce, teriyaki marinades, teriyaki glazes, and all teriyaki dishes at restaurants. The wheat content is not trace — it's a significant component of the sauce.

Gluten-free teriyaki sauce is easy to find. San-J makes a GF teriyaki sauce using their wheat-free tamari. Kikkoman also makes a GF teriyaki option. You can also make your own by combining tamari with mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.

Hidden Gluten Risks in Teriyaki Sauce

  • ⚠Soy sauce (wheat) is a primary ingredient
  • ⚠All restaurant teriyaki is wheat-based
  • ⚠Teriyaki jerky contains wheat
  • ⚠Teriyaki marinades on meats at grocery stores
  • ⚠Hidden in many Asian-style frozen meals

Safe Brands

  • ✅ San-J GF Teriyaki
  • ✅ Kikkoman GF Teriyaki
  • ✅ Primal Kitchen (no soy)

Avoid These

  • 🚫 Kikkoman (regular)
  • 🚫 La Choy
  • 🚫 Most restaurant teriyaki
  • 🚫 All standard teriyaki sauces

Gluten-Free Alternatives

GF teriyaki sauce (tamari-based)Homemade with tamari + mirin + sugarCoconut aminos + honey

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Related: Is This Gluten-Free?

Is Soy Sauce GF?

🚫 No

Is Rice GF?

✅ Yes

Is Tofu GF?

⚠️ Depends

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About the Author

SM

Sarah Mitchell

Lead Content Writer & Nutritionist, B.S. Nutrition Science

Sarah was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2018 and writes evidence-based guides combining clinical nutrition knowledge with 6+ years of personal gluten-free living experience.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes related to celiac disease. Read full disclaimer.