Mission's Official Gluten-Free Stance on Tostadas
Based on manufacturer information, all Mission® corn products, which include their tostadas, are certified gluten-free. This assurance is backed by their dedicated production processes and ingredient sourcing, ensuring that the final product meets the stringent requirements for gluten-free certification. The company explicitly states that their corn products are made with 100% corn masa flour and are produced on dedicated lines to avoid cross-contact with wheat products.
The Ingredients Behind Mission's Gluten-Free Tostadas
Understanding the ingredients is crucial for anyone with dietary restrictions. The main components of Mission's corn-based tostadas are simple and naturally gluten-free:
- Corn Masa Flour: The primary ingredient, which is gluten-free corn dough flour.
- Water: Used to create the masa dough.
- Vegetable Oil: Often a blend of cottonseed, corn, and/or sunflower oil, which are all gluten-free.
- Salt: A common seasoning and preservative.
Mission also makes a clear distinction between its corn and wheat products. Their wheat flour tortillas and wraps are not gluten-free and are produced on completely separate, dedicated lines to prevent any cross-contamination.
Comparing Mission's Gluten-Free and Wheat Products
This table outlines the key differences between Mission's gluten-free corn products, such as tostadas, and their gluten-containing wheat products.
| Feature | Mission Corn Tostadas (Gluten-Free) | Mission Wheat Tortillas (Contain Gluten) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Corn Masa Flour | Wheat Flour |
| Production Line | Dedicated corn-only lines | Dedicated wheat-only lines |
| Gluten Status | Certified Gluten-Free | Contains Gluten |
| Texture | Crispy and crunchy | Soft and pliable |
| Main Use | Tostadas, chips, and taco shells | Soft tacos, wraps, and burritos |
Mission's Approach to Preventing Cross-Contamination
For those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance, cross-contamination is a major concern. Mission Foods addresses this with a comprehensive Allergen Control Program. Their process includes:
- Dedicated Production Lines: As mentioned, corn products and wheat products are never made on the same equipment.
- Strict Sanitation Procedures: The company implements rigorous cleaning processes between production runs to eliminate potential cross-contact.
- Clear Labeling: All products are clearly labeled with ingredients and allergen information, following government regulations.
By keeping manufacturing separate and following stringent sanitation protocols, Mission Foods provides an added layer of security for gluten-free consumers.
How to Identify Gluten-Free Mission Tostadas
Identifying gluten-free products from Mission is straightforward. Look for the following on the packaging:
- Certified Gluten-Free Seal: This is the clearest indicator that a product has been tested and meets the official gluten-free standard.
- Ingredient List: Check the ingredients to confirm that corn masa flour is the base ingredient and that no wheat or other gluten-containing items are present.
- Dietary Needs Labeling: Many retailers, like Target, explicitly label the product's dietary needs right on the product description, confirming its gluten-free status.
What Other Mission Products Are Gluten-Free?
Mission Foods offers more than just tostadas for those with gluten-free diets.
- Corn Tortillas: Both white and yellow corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free.
- Corn Tortilla Chips: All corn chips are also certified gluten-free.
- Wraps: Mission has a specific line of wraps that are certified gluten-free, including varieties like Original, Spinach Herb, and Almond Flour.
This variety ensures that gluten-free consumers can enjoy a wide range of Mexican-inspired dishes without worry. For the most up-to-date information, always check the product packaging and the official Mission Foods website for the latest product offerings.
Conclusion: Enjoy Mission Tostadas with Confidence
In conclusion, for those asking, "Are Mission tostadas gluten-free?", the answer is a resounding yes. Mission Foods confirms that their corn tostadas are certified gluten-free and are made with pure corn masa flour on dedicated production lines. By checking for the certified gluten-free seal and reviewing the ingredient list, consumers can confidently enjoy these crispy, crunchy tostadas as part of a gluten-free lifestyle. This commitment to allergen control and transparent labeling makes Mission a trusted brand for many with dietary restrictions. You can learn more about their full range of gluten-free options and commitment to allergen control by visiting the official Mission Foods FAQ page.