gluten

gluten A protein that is found in wheat and related grains. Gluten can be found in a large variety of processed foods, including soups, salad dressings, and natural flavorings. Unidentified starches, hydrolyzed proteins, and binders and fillers used in medications or vitamins can be unsuspected sources of gluten. People with celiac sprue, Crohn’s disease, or related disorders may need to avoid gluten products. See also gliadin.