Is Kentucky Legend Ham Gluten Free? What You Need to Know

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine This can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, fatigue and headaches

The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods and drinks containing gluten. There are many gluten-free substitutes available, but it’s important to check labels since gluten can hide in unexpected places. A common question is whether deli meats like ham are safe to eat on a gluten-free diet.

Is Ham Gluten Free?

Fresh ham or pork usually does not contain gluten. However processed ham can be problematic for a couple reasons

• Added ingredients: Spices, flavorings and glazes used to make flavored hams may contain gluten, especially if they include wheat, barley or rye.

• Cross-contamination: Ham processed on shared equipment with gluten-containing foods can pick up trace amounts of gluten.

So you can’t assume ham is gluten-free just because it’s made from pork It depends on the brand and type of ham

Is Kentucky Legend Ham Gluten Free?

Kentucky Legend is a popular brand of ham that produces a variety of flavors like honey-baked, brown sugar and black forest ham.

The good news is Kentucky Legend clearly labels which hams are gluten-free. On their website, they have a gluten-free products list that is updated regularly.

Some Kentucky Legend hams that are labeled gluten-free include:

• Original Hickory Smoked Ham
• Honey Ham
• Brown Sugar Ham
• Baked Honey Ham
• Black Forest Ham
• BBQ Ham

As long as you choose a Kentucky Legend ham variety that’s specifically labeled “gluten-free,” it should be safe. Always double check the label when you purchase it to confirm.

Kentucky Legend avoids using any gluten-containing ingredients in their gluten-free labeled products. They also follow procedures to avoid cross-contamination with gluten, like thorough cleaning of equipment between production runs.

Tips for Choosing Safe Gluten-Free Ham

When selecting any brand of ham on a gluten-free diet, here are some tips:

• Check for a “gluten-free” label. This indicates the company has tested the product to verify it meets gluten-free standards.

• Read the ingredients. Watch out for wheat, barley, rye, malt or ambiguous ingredients like starch, flavoring or spices.

• Look for added gluten. Packets of glaze, seasoning or breadcrumbs often contain gluten.

• Stick to major brands. Large manufacturers are more likely to accommodate gluten-free diets.

• Ask about processing. Inquire whether hams are processed on shared equipment. Opt for brands that avoid cross-contamination.

• Buy ham at deli counters with caution. Slicers used for bread can transfer gluten to meats. Pre-packaged is safer.

• When in doubt, leave it out. Don’t risk getting sick if you’re unsure about an ingredient or processing.

Other Gluten-Free Ham Brands

In addition to Kentucky Legend, some other brands that label certain hams gluten-free include:

• Boar’s Head
• Jones Dairy Farm
• Wellshire Farms
• Nueske’s
• Dietz & Watson

Companies like Hormel will list hams “without gluten ingredients” but note they cannot guarantee no cross-contamination.

If you don’t see a gluten-free label, double check with the manufacturer or pass on products with questionable ingredients.

Cooking and Serving Gluten-Free Ham

Once you’ve selected a gluten-free ham, you also want to avoid cross-contamination when preparing and serving it. Here are some tips:

• Designate gluten-free knives, cutting boards, platters, etc. for prep.

• Check seasoning mixes for gluten before adding to ham.

• Skip the breadcrumbs or flour coating if frying ham slices.

• Use a fresh, dry basting brush if glazing a ham.

• Serve ham on its own platter, not touching croutons or buns.

• Offer gluten-free rolls, biscuits or cornbread alongside for sandwiches.

With some label reading and awareness in the kitchen, people who are gluten-free can still enjoy the delicious flavor of hearty baked ham. Choosing reputable brands that clearly mark gluten-free options on the label helps take the guesswork out.

The Bottom Line

Kentucky Legend ham varieties specifically labeled “gluten-free” are considered safe for people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Always verify by carefully reading the label when purchasing. Other trustworthy gluten-free ham brands include Boar’s Head, Jones Dairy Farm and Wellshire Farms. Just be vigilant about added ingredients and cross-contamination risks when buying any type of processed ham. With a few precautions, you can savor gluten-free ham on occasions like Easter or Christmas dinner.