Why Casa Mendosa Tortillas are Not Gluten-Free
For anyone on a strict gluten-free diet, understanding ingredient labels is a necessity. The protein gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. An examination of Casa Mendosa's product ingredients reveals why they are not suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Ingredient analysis across Casa Mendosa products
Casa Mendosa produces a variety of tortillas, including Original, Whole Wheat, and 50/50 Corn-Wheat blends. A look at the ingredient list for these popular varieties confirms the presence of gluten-containing ingredients.
- Original Tortillas: Ingredients include 'Enriched wheat flour' and may contain 'added wheat gluten'.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: The primary ingredient is 'Whole grain wheat flour,' and 'Wheat gluten*' is also listed.
- 50/50 Corn-Wheat Tortillas: Despite the corn content, this blend still lists 'Enriched wheat flour' and 'Wheat gluten*' among its ingredients.
Understanding food labeling
Navigating food labels is critical for those avoiding gluten. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that any food labeled 'gluten-free' contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Any product containing wheat, barley, or rye cannot carry this claim. Casa Mendosa does not label its tortillas as gluten-free because they contain wheat flour and added wheat gluten, and in some cases, the packaging explicitly states, "Contains: Wheat".
What about the corn-wheat blend?
Some might mistakenly assume that the 50/50 Corn-Wheat tortilla variety is safe due to the presence of corn. However, the product's ingredient list confirms it is made with both corn flour and enriched wheat flour, along with added wheat gluten. This crossbreed approach makes it unsafe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. This is an important distinction to remember when examining other 'corn' products, as cross-contamination or mixed ingredients can still be an issue.
Finding Certified Gluten-Free Tortilla Alternatives
Fortunately, a growing number of brands offer delicious, certified gluten-free tortillas that are safe for a strict diet. When shopping, always look for the 'Certified Gluten-Free' logo from an organization like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
Comparison Table: Casa Mendosa vs. Gluten-Free Brands
| Feature | Casa Mendosa Tortillas | Siete Grain-Free Tortillas | Mission Gluten-Free Tortillas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Flour | Wheat flour | Cassava, almond, chickpea, etc. | Rice flour, tapioca starch |
| Contains Gluten? | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | General consumption | Grain-free and Paleo diets | Similar taste/texture to classic flour tortillas |
| Best Use | Wraps, burritos | Tacos, quesadillas, tostadas | Tacos, quesadillas |
| Common Issue | Contains gluten, unsafe for celiac | More fragile when folding | Can sometimes fall apart when wrapped |
Popular gluten-free tortilla brands
- Siete Family Foods: This brand offers an extensive line of grain-free and gluten-free tortillas made from ingredients like almond, cassava, and chickpea flour. They are a highly-rated favorite in the gluten-free community.
- Mission Foods: A legacy brand in the tortilla market, Mission also offers a dedicated line of gluten-free tortillas. These are often praised for a taste and texture similar to traditional flour tortillas, though they can be fragile.
- Toufayan Bakeries: Known for its certified gluten-free wraps, Toufayan is a reliable option for those seeking gluten-free flour alternatives.
- Rudi's Gluten-Free Bakery: This brand provides certified gluten-free plain and spinach tortillas, found in many natural foods stores.
- Trader Joe's: Many of their stores carry gluten-free brown rice tortillas, a popular choice that holds up well when heated.
How to Ensure Your Tortillas are Gluten-Free
For those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance, simply assuming a product is safe is not enough. Follow these steps to ensure you are purchasing safe, gluten-free tortillas:
- Look for a "Certified Gluten-Free" label. The GFCO symbol or a similar certification mark guarantees the product has been third-party tested to be under 10 or 20 ppm of gluten, depending on the certification.
- Read the ingredient list carefully. Even products made with naturally gluten-free ingredients like corn or rice can contain hidden gluten or be cross-contaminated during production. Explicitly avoid ingredients like wheat flour, wheat gluten, malt, or barley.
- Check for allergen warnings. Many labels include a section stating if the product contains allergens like wheat, though it may not be comprehensive for all gluten-containing grains.
- Consider naturally gluten-free options. If store-bought options are limited, using ingredients like large lettuce leaves, collard greens, or jicama wraps can serve as a fresh, naturally gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
To answer the original question, are Casa Mendosa tortillas gluten free? No, they are not. The company's products, including its corn-wheat blends, contain wheat flour and added wheat gluten, making them unsafe for individuals with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Fortunately, the market for certified gluten-free alternatives has expanded significantly, with brands like Siete, Mission, and Toufayan offering a range of safe and delicious options. By always reading labels and looking for official third-party certifications, consumers can confidently navigate the grocery store and enjoy a safe, gluten-free meal.
