Jim Markus

Jim Markus brings a wealth of experience to Gluten-Free Palate, with over 10 years of expertise in editing, focusing on fact checking and clarity. His writing caters to individuals who embrace a gluten-free lifestyle, offering valuable insights and recipes.

Jim's educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree from Michigan State University, and his culinary passion shines through in his home-cooked creations, especially his baked-in-a-pumpkin stew.

Jim's writing philosophy centers on experimentation in the kitchen, coupled with the belief that everyone can cook. His culinary adventures extend from main courses to fancy appetizers, with a newfound focus on becoming a better baker.

A bowl of gluten free cheez it crackers shown from above

Are Cheez-Its Gluten Free?

The first-ever gluten-free cheez-its hit the shelves earlier in the year. Now we're looking at the rest of the product line up. Here's everything to know (including a homemade cheez its option).

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Gluten free baking powder used in gluten free biscuits shown above gluten free cupcakes.

Is Baking Powder Gluten Free?

Baking powder is one of those pantry staples that's almost always safe. Almost. A handful of imported brands swap cornstarch for wheat starch, and that changes everything. I keep Rumford on hand. One label check and you're good to go. (Plus a few recipes for inspiration).

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Three images, stacked, showing sour patch kids and cookies.

Are Sour Patch Kids Gluten Free?

Sour Patch Kids candy is gluten free in the United States, but the brand's cereal contains wheat flour. Here's the full breakdown for celiacs sorting through the Halloween candy bag, including which varieties are safe, which to avoid, and a few certified alternatives worth keeping on hand.

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Three gluten-free oatmeal dishes, including cookies, scones, and matza.

Is Oatmeal Gluten Free?

Yes, pure oats are naturally gluten-free. The problem is that most oats are grown, harvested, and milled alongside wheat, barley, and rye. Here's how to find oatmeal that's actually safe for celiac disease, and what the gluten-free label really means.

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A hand reaching into a bowl of skittles.

Are Skittles Gluten Free?

Skittles are gluten free by ingredient, but they are not certified gluten free, and that distinction matters if you have celiac disease. Here's a variety-by-variety breakdown, the current Mars Wrigley ingredient list, and the one caveat most articles skip.

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A cannister of Lay's Stax laying open on the dining room table.

Are Pringles Gluten Free?

Pringles aren't gluten free. Every flavor contains wheat starch in the base recipe, and Pringles says so plainly on their own FAQ page. Here's why, plus the certified gluten-free alternatives worth keeping on hand.

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A person holding Hidden Valley ranch dressing at the grocery store.

Is Ranch Dressing Gluten-Free?

Ranch dressing is one of America's most beloved condiments, and the good news is that most brands are gluten free. But for those with celiac disease, "most" isn't enough. Here's everything you need to know before you dip.

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A hand holding a glass bottle of ketchup.

Is Ketchup Gluten Free?

Is ketchup gluten free? Generally, yes. But there's an ingredient you'll want to watch out for. Here's what to check on the label (and the best recipes for GF ketchup lovers).

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A bowl of Lay's potato chips on a countertop.

Are Lay's Potato Chips Gluten Free?

Are Lay's potato chips gluten free? Most are, but a handful of flavors contain barley, malt, or wheat-derived ingredients. Here's how to tell the safe ones apart, safe gluten-free alternatives, and delicious dips that go well with them.

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A finished gluten-free wrap filled with fresh greens, tomatoes, chicken, and dressing is cut in half and placed on a wooden board for serving.

Is Mayo Gluten Free?

Standard mayo is made from eggs, oil, and vinegar, and most major brands are safe for a gluten-free diet. Hellmann's carries the label. Duke's is produced in a wheat-free facility. Miracle Whip is more complicated. Plus a quick homemade recipe with an immersion blender.

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An Easter basket overflowing with Reese's candy.

Are Reese's Gluten Free? Every Variety Checked

Most Reese's products are labeled gluten free by Hershey, but none carry third-party certification. Several varieties contain gluten directly. Here is the full variety-by-variety breakdown, plus certified alternatives for celiac patients.

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Spinach dip in a white bowl with a carrot being dipped into it.

Gluten-Free Game Day Snacks

Game day snacks should be fun, filling, and easy to share. This roundup pulls together my favorite gluten-free dips and appetizers, plus quick tips for serving a spread everyone can enjoy.

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