The full answer
It depends on the source — usually corn, but not always
Modified food starch is most commonly made from corn in the US and is generally gluten-free, but it can occasionally be wheat-based, particularly in products manufactured outside the US. In the US, wheat-based starch must be labeled as containing wheat by law.
The safest approach
When the source isn’t specified and you’re unsure, choosing products with a gluten-free certification removes the guesswork, especially for imported products where labeling rules may differ.
Important context
Individual symptoms, reactions, medical histories, food products, and local labeling rules can vary. Community experiences are not medical evidence.
For personal medical decisions, diagnosis, testing, or treatment, consult a qualified healthcare professional.