Why Aren't Campbell's Baked Beans Gluten-Free?
While beans themselves are naturally gluten-free, the baked bean sauce is where gluten is frequently introduced. For most of its baked bean and pork and bean products, Campbell's uses thickeners, flavorings, or other ingredients that contain wheat or other gluten sources. One prominent example is Campbell's Chunky Baked Beans Seasoned with Maple, Bacon & Beer, which explicitly lists "Contains Wheat" on its warning label. In other cases, ingredients like modified food starch or 'flavoring' can be derived from gluten-containing grains.
The Risk of Cross-Contamination
Even if the ingredients list doesn't explicitly mention wheat, Campbell's products may be manufactured on shared equipment with other products that contain gluten. This poses a significant risk of cross-contamination for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. The Campbell's Company website explicitly states that some products made without gluten-containing ingredients are still manufactured on shared equipment that has not been tested for gluten, making them unsuitable for those with celiac disease.
What to Look for on the Label
When reading the label of any canned baked beans, pay close attention to the following terms:
- Wheat: A clear indicator that the product is not gluten-free.
- Modified Food Starch: Can be derived from wheat unless otherwise specified (e.g., "modified corn starch").
- Natural Flavoring: This ingredient can sometimes contain a hidden gluten source, such as malt flavoring.
- Maltodextrin: While usually corn-derived in the US, it is another ingredient that could potentially be from a gluten source.
- Yeast Extract: Unless specifically stated to be from a gluten-free source, this can be derived from brewer's yeast, which contains barley.
Gluten-Free Baked Bean Alternatives
Fortunately, many brands produce verified gluten-free baked beans, allowing individuals to enjoy this classic side dish safely. These include:
- Bush's Best Baked Beans: Many of their varieties are labeled gluten-free, but always check the specific can.
- B&M Original Baked Beans: While some reviews are mixed on flavor, some varieties do not list gluten ingredients. However, labels should always be verified.
- Westbrae Natural Organic Baked Beans: Offers organic and vegetarian baked bean options that are certified gluten-free.
- Amy's Organic Vegetarian Baked Beans: Another certified organic and vegetarian option for those avoiding gluten.
Comparison of Baked Bean Brands
To help you decide, here is a comparison of Campbell's baked beans with certified gluten-free alternatives.
| Feature | Campbell's Baked Beans | Bush's Baked Beans (Gluten-Free) | Westbrae Natural Baked Beans (Certified GF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Contains wheat; Not gluten-free | Many varieties are certified gluten-free | Certified gluten-free and organic |
| Primary Ingredients | Pea beans, sugar, modified food starch, various flavorings which can include gluten | Navy beans, various sauces and flavorings, often verified safe | Organic navy beans, natural flavors, non-GMO |
| Celiac Safety | Unsafe due to ingredients and shared equipment risk | Safe, but always double-check the can for the 'gluten-free' label | Safe for celiac patients due to certified status |
| Target Audience | General consumers | Gluten-sensitive and general consumers | Health-conscious, gluten-free, and organic consumers |
How to Make Your Own Gluten-Free Baked Beans
For the ultimate control over ingredients and to avoid any cross-contamination risks, making baked beans from scratch is an excellent option. You can easily find gluten-free recipes that use safe ingredients. The base for homemade baked beans is simple: navy beans, a tomato base, sweeteners, and seasonings. Crucially, you can use certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all flavorings are safe.
Simple Steps for Homemade Baked Beans:
- Soak Beans: Start with dried navy or pea beans and soak them overnight to reduce cooking time.
- Make the Sauce: Combine safe ingredients like canned tomatoes or tomato paste, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, and spices.
- Use Safe Add-ins: Add chopped onion, garlic, and bacon, or use a vegetarian base for a meatless version.
- Slow Cook: Combine all ingredients and cook slowly in an oven or slow cooker until thick and flavorful.
Conclusion: A Clear Answer for Your Gluten-Free Diet
To put it plainly, if you are following a strict gluten-free diet, you should avoid Campbell's baked beans due to the presence of wheat and the high risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing. The good news is that the market offers numerous safe and delicious alternatives from brands like Bush's, Westbrae Natural, and Amy's, many of which carry a certified gluten-free label. For complete peace of mind, making your own baked beans from scratch is the safest route and allows for customization to your taste. Always read the labels carefully and, when in doubt, choose a product specifically marked as gluten-free.
Remember: Not all canned baked beans are created equal, and vigilance is key when managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. A quick check of the packaging will tell you everything you need to know to make a safe choice.
The Campbell's Company Stance on Gluten
For those curious about the company's official position, Campbell's does provide information on its website regarding gluten. They explain that while some products may not contain gluten ingredients, they are not tested for gluten and are manufactured on shared equipment, making them unsuitable for those with celiac disease. They do, however, offer a list of other products that are specifically formulated and tested to be gluten-free, such as certain soups, but baked beans are typically not on this list. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, checking the product's nutritional information and the Campbell's official site is recommended.
