Are Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes Gluten-Free?: A Complete Nutritional Guide

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

With nearly 1 in 100 people worldwide affected by celiac disease, carefully checking food labels is crucial for those on a gluten-free diet. For fans of convenient comfort food, a pressing question arises: Are Bob Evans mashed sweet potatoes gluten-free? The answer is yes, according to the product's packaging and ingredients.

Quick Summary

Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes are labeled gluten-free, but consumers with celiac or severe sensitivities should examine ingredients and be aware of potential cross-contamination during production or meal preparation.

Key Points

Gluten-Free Status Confirmed: Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes are explicitly labeled as gluten-free on their packaging.
Naturally Gluten-Free Ingredients: The primary components, including sweet potatoes, milk, and butter, are naturally free of gluten.
Watch for Cross-Contamination: While factory-sealed, be mindful of potential cross-contact with gluten during preparation at home or in restaurants.
Read All Labels: Not all Bob Evans products are gluten-free; always check the specific product label for confirmation.
Nutrient-Rich Addition: Sweet potatoes are a healthy and nutritious option, providing fiber, Vitamin A, and other benefits for a gluten-free diet.

The Verdict: A Gluten-Free Confirmation

For individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those simply opting for a gluten-free lifestyle, the good news is that Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes are explicitly labeled as gluten-free on the packaging. This designation means the product has been verified to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, the threshold established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for gluten-free claims. While the product is a safe choice based on its label, a deeper look into the ingredients and manufacturing process can provide extra assurance for those with severe sensitivities.

Deciphering the Ingredients List

The ingredients in Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes include sweet potatoes, skim milk, brown sugar, butter, and a few preservatives and stabilizers. All of these primary components are naturally free of gluten. The inclusion of skim milk and butter means the product is not dairy-free, but this does not affect its gluten-free status. Ingredients are listed as:

Sweet Potatoes
Skim Milk
Brown Sugar
Butter (Cream, Salt)
Salt
Spice
Xanthan Gum (stabilizer)
Disodium Pyrophosphate (to maintain color)
Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Bisulfite (to maintain freshness)

The thickening agent, xanthan gum, is a common gluten-free alternative used to achieve desired consistency in many food products.

The Importance of a 'Gluten-Free' Label

The 'Gluten-Free' label on pre-packaged foods like Bob Evans' mashed sweet potatoes signifies a commitment from the manufacturer to ensure the product meets strict standards. This typically involves sourcing ingredients that are inherently gluten-free, implementing production protocols to minimize cross-contamination, and conducting testing to confirm the final product's gluten content is below the FDA's limit. However, it is always a good practice for highly sensitive individuals to verify information directly with the manufacturer, as recipes and processes can change.

Potential Risks of Cross-Contamination

While the factory-sealed product is labeled gluten-free, there are a couple of scenarios where cross-contamination could occur. This is not due to the product itself but rather its handling in different environments. For example, if the mashed sweet potatoes are prepared in a kitchen alongside other dishes containing gluten, such as biscuits or gravy, there is a risk of cross-contact with utensils or surfaces. At home, ensuring separate cutting boards and utensils are used when preparing gluten-free meals can help mitigate this risk. For individuals with celiac disease, this caution is paramount. Bob Evans acknowledges potential cross-contamination in their restaurants and advises customers with allergies to speak with staff.

Nutritional Profile for a Celiac-Friendly Diet

Sweet potatoes are a highly nutritious vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. For those following a gluten-free diet, they are an excellent source of carbohydrates and a great alternative to grains. The nutritional benefits include:

High in Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion.
Rich in Vitamin A: One medium sweet potato provides over 100% of the daily value.
Source of Potassium and Vitamin C: Contributes to overall health.
Low in Fat: Contains low levels of unhealthy fats.

Bob Evans Side Dishes: A Gluten-Free Comparison

It is important to note that while the mashed sweet potatoes are gluten-free, not all Bob Evans products share this status. Always check the label of each specific product.


Product Name	Gluten-Free Status	Potential Allergens	Notes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes	Yes	Milk	Made with real sweet potatoes and brown sugar.
Original Mashed Potatoes	Yes	Milk, Soy	Made with 100% fresh potatoes, milk, and butter.
Glazed Apples	Yes	Milk	Contains real apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Broccoli & Cheese	Yes	Milk	Made with real cheddar cheese.
Sausage Biscuits	No	Wheat, Milk, Soy	Contains enriched bleached wheat flour.
Macaroni and Cheese	Not labeled Gluten-Free	Milk, Wheat	Often made with wheat-based pasta.

Making Your Own Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Mash

For those who prefer a homemade option or want to minimize risk, making your own gluten-free mashed sweet potatoes is simple. A basic recipe is as follows:

Ingredients:

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup milk or gluten-free milk alternative
1-2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
Pinch of salt and spice (like cinnamon or nutmeg)

Instructions:

Boil sweet potato cubes in a pot of water until tender.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.
Mash the potatoes with the butter, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
Serve warm.

Conclusion: Informed Choices for a Gluten-Free Lifestyle

In summary, for those following a gluten-free diet, Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a safe and convenient option, as confirmed by their gluten-free label and ingredient list. However, staying informed about preparation methods and being aware of cross-contamination risks, especially in non-factory-sealed environments, is always wise. Whether you choose the convenience of a packaged side or prefer to make your own, incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy comfort food without compromising your health.

For more information on Bob Evans' gluten-free options and nutrition, visit BobEvansGrocery.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free root vegetables and do not contain wheat, barley, or rye.

You can verify the gluten-free status by checking the product's packaging for the 'Gluten Free' label or by visiting the official Bob Evans grocery website.

Yes, based on product descriptions, the original Bob Evans mashed potatoes are also labeled as gluten-free.

No, the FDA's 'Gluten Free' standard requires that products contain less than 20 ppm of gluten, which is generally safe for individuals with celiac disease but not a zero-gluten guarantee.

Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer, and it is gluten-free.

According to the ingredient list, Bob Evans Mashed Sweet Potatoes contain milk. They are, however, free from cereals and their derivatives.

The primary risk, although low for labeled products, is potential cross-contamination during manufacturing or handling. For dining out, the risk is higher if shared equipment is used.