An emulsifier is an ingredient used to keep normally-incompatible items  (like water and oil) from separating.  The two most common emulsifiers are egg yolks and soy lecithin, so the word “emulsifier” on a package labeled “gluten free” does not suggest that a package is mislabeled. Click here for more information.

Since the two most common emulsifiers are gluten free, the word “emulsifier” on an ingredient  label probably doesn’t rule out the used of the product, but people who wish to be very careful will follow the standard “when in doubt leave it out” advice and/or contact the manufacturer for more information. This situation is a particular problem to chocolate lovers, since virtually all candy bars require an emulsifier for the best possible taste and texture.