The question of whether all Ole products are gluten free is a common one, and the answer requires a bit of clarification. The term "Oles" can refer to products from two distinct companies: Ole Mexican Foods, which produces a variety of tortillas, chips, and other Mexican food products, and Ole Cocktails, which makes ready-to-drink beverages. The gluten-free status depends entirely on the specific product and brand in question.
Are Ole Mexican Foods Products Gluten Free?
For products from Ole Mexican Foods, the answer is mixed. The company produces a wide range of goods, some containing gluten and some that are explicitly gluten-free.
Corn-Based Products
Ole Mexican Foods has stated in their FAQ that their corn products are made with 100% corn masa and/or corn flour, with no wheat flour or other wheat ingredients added. This includes their standard corn tortillas, corn chips, and tostadas, which are all considered gluten-free. To prevent cross-contamination, the company uses dedicated production lines for their corn-based products, separating them entirely from wheat products.
Wheat-Based Products
Naturally, all flour tortillas and other bakery products containing wheat flour from Ole Mexican Foods are not gluten-free. These products are clearly labeled and intended for those without gluten sensitivities. Consumers must be vigilant to select the correct product, as the packaging for corn and flour-based items can appear similar on a supermarket shelf.
The Xtreme Wellness Gluten Free Line
In addition to their naturally gluten-free corn products, Ole Mexican Foods offers a specific line called "Xtreme Wellness Gluten Free" tortillas. These wraps are specially formulated using gluten-free ingredients like chickpea flour and avocado oil to provide a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour tortillas. The packaging for these items explicitly states their gluten-free status and certifications.
What About Ole Cocktails?
For those wondering if Ole Cocktails are gluten free, the answer is a straightforward yes. Ole Cocktails are alcoholic beverages explicitly marketed as gluten-free and vegan. They are crafted from real tequila blanco, juice, and agave nectar without artificial flavors or sweeteners, making them a safe choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
How to Verify if an Ole Product is Gluten Free
To be absolutely certain about an Ole product's gluten status, always follow these label-reading best practices:
- Look for explicit "Gluten Free" labeling: The most reliable indicator is a clear "Gluten Free" claim on the packaging, which in the United States, means the product contains less than 20 ppm of gluten.
- Check the ingredients list: For products without a clear gluten-free claim, read the ingredients carefully. Ensure no wheat, barley, rye, or malt is present. For Ole Mexican Foods, this is where you'll differentiate between corn and flour products.
- Search for certification symbols: Some products may carry a certified gluten-free logo, such as the "Crossed Grain" symbol, which indicates it has been vetted by an independent organization.
- Read allergen statements: Check for a "Contains" or "May Contain" allergen statement, as these will list allergens like wheat explicitly.
Comparison of Common Ole Product Types
| Product Category | Is Gluten-Free? | Main Ingredients | Cross-Contamination Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corn Tortillas/Tostadas | Yes | 100% Corn Masa, Water, Lime | Low (Dedicated Production Line) |
| Flour Tortillas | No | Wheat Flour | High (Contains Gluten) |
| Xtreme Wellness GF Wraps | Yes | Chickpea Flour, Avocado Oil | Low (Explicitly Labeled) |
| Ole Cocktails | Yes | Tequila, Juice, Agave Nectar | N/A (Beverage) |
A list of Ole Mexican Foods Gluten-Free Products
Based on manufacturer information, the following Ole Mexican Foods items are gluten-free:
- Corn Tortillas
- Corn Chips
- Corn Tostadas
- Chorizo
- Xtreme Wellness Gluten Free Tortilla Wraps (made with chickpea flour and avocado oil)
Conclusion
The simple answer to "are oles gluten free?" is that some are, and some are not. For safe consumption, those on a gluten-free diet must always distinguish between the different product lines offered by Ole Mexican Foods and the separate brand of Ole Cocktails. Rely on clear gluten-free labeling, certified logos, and ingredient checks to ensure a product is safe for your dietary needs. Always be a proactive label reader to guarantee peace of mind with every meal. For more guidance on reading labels, the Celiac Disease Foundation offers excellent resources on their website.
