A Confident 'Yes,' But Check the Label
For many, the answer to "Are Brianna's marinades gluten-free?" is a confident yes, as a number of their popular flavors are explicitly labeled as gluten-free. The company emphasizes its dedication to creating high-quality, delicious products for a wide range of consumers, including those with gluten sensitivities. Their small-batch production process focuses on premium ingredients, ensuring flavor and quality without relying on gluten-containing additives.
Which Brianna's Marinade Flavors are Gluten-Free?
Brianna's has made it easy to identify suitable products for a gluten-free diet by clearly marking them on the label and listing them on their website. This offers peace of mind for consumers seeking delicious, gluten-free flavor options. The specific marinades known to be gluten-free include:
- Classic Steak Marinade: A savory blend of balsamic vinegar, sweet figs, garlic, and spices.
- Roasted Garlic & Herb Marinade: Features roasted garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Citrus Mediterranean Marinade: A light, zesty flavor with citrus and fresh herbs like oregano and basil.
- Smoked Chipotle and Lime Marinade: Provides a smoky, spicy kick from chipotle peppers, lime, and garlic.
- Sriracha Honey Ginger Marinade: Balances the heat of sriracha with sweet honey and zesty ginger. Notably, it contains tamari soy sauce, a common gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce.
Gluten-Free Labeling: Understanding the Differences
When navigating a gluten-free diet, especially for Celiac disease, it is crucial to differentiate between a product's manufacturer-issued "gluten-free" label and a third-party "certified gluten-free" status.
- Manufacturer's Claim (Labeled "Gluten-Free"): Under FDA regulations, a product can be labeled "gluten-free" if it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This is based on the manufacturer's own testing and quality control procedures. Most of Brianna's marinades fall into this category, with a direct claim of being gluten-free.
- Third-Party Certification (Certified "Gluten-Free"): Organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) set stricter standards, often requiring products to contain less than 10 ppm of gluten. This certification also includes facility audits to ensure minimal risk of cross-contamination. For individuals with a high sensitivity to gluten or Celiac disease, this level of external verification offers a stronger assurance of safety. It is always advisable for highly sensitive individuals to check if a specific marinade carries such a third-party certification.
Comparison of Brianna's Gluten-Free Marinades
| Feature | Roasted Garlic & Herb | Classic Steak | Citrus Mediterranean | Smoked Chipotle and Lime | Sriracha Honey Ginger | 
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Canola Oil, Garlic, Spices | Balsamic Vinegar, Figs, Garlic, Spices | Citrus, Oregano, Basil, Rosemary | Chipotle Peppers, Lime, Garlic | Sriracha, Honey, Ginger, Tamari | 
| Vegan Status | Yes | No (check label) | Yes | Yes | No (contains honey) | 
| Kosher Status | Yes | No (check label) | Yes | Yes | Yes | 
Celiac Disease and Cross-Contamination Risks
For individuals with Celiac disease, the risk of cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities is a major concern. While Brianna's produces a wide array of products, not all of them are gluten-free, including certain dressings. Although the company takes measures to prevent cross-contamination, such as thorough cleaning between batches, some individuals may prefer products from dedicated gluten-free facilities.
Best Practices for Celiac-Safe Usage:
- Verify the Label: Always check the most current product label for a clear gluten-free claim.
- Use Fresh Product: Ensure the product has been newly opened and has not come into contact with gluten-containing foods.
- Clean Kitchen Surfaces: Use clean, dedicated cutting boards, utensils, and containers when preparing meals to prevent accidental contamination.
- Contact Customer Service: For the highest level of assurance, particularly for severe sensitivities, contacting the company directly regarding their cross-contamination protocols is recommended.
Navigating Other Brianna's Products
Brianna's also offers a variety of other gluten-free products, including numerous salad dressings. However, it is important to remember that not all their products are safe for a gluten-free diet. The dressings Lively Lemon Tarragon and Saucy Ginger Mandarin are known exceptions. Always refer to the product attributes on the official website or the label itself to confirm suitability.
Conclusion: A Trustworthy Option with Careful Consideration
Brianna's marinades offer a widely available and delicious gluten-free option for marinating and cooking. Their clear labeling and commitment to quality ingredients make them a suitable choice for most with gluten sensitivities. However, for those with Celiac disease or high sensitivity, understanding the distinction between a manufacturer's claim and third-party certification is essential. By consistently checking product labels and practicing safe kitchen hygiene, you can confidently incorporate these flavorful marinades into your gluten-free cooking.
For further information on Brianna's gluten-free offerings, visit the official BRIANNAS Gluten-Free Page.