Understanding Bisto's Gluten-Free Offering
For individuals managing coeliac disease, the world of pre-packaged food can be a minefield of potential gluten sources. Standard Bisto gravy products are not gluten-free as they contain wheat flour. However, the good news is that Bisto does offer a safe alternative. The manufacturer, Premier Foods, produces a dedicated Gluten Free variant of its popular gravy granules. This specific product is formulated without gluten-containing ingredients and is clearly marked as 'Gluten Free' and 'Suitable for Coeliacs' on the packaging.
To be certain you are purchasing the correct product, you should always look for the 'Gluten Free' label and the Crossed Grain symbol on the tub. Premier Foods has stated that it has measures in place to reduce the risk of cross-contamination for some other products, but for absolute certainty, the officially labelled gluten-free version is the only truly safe option for coeliacs.
Why Traditional Bisto Gravy is Not Safe
The traditional Bisto products, including the original granules and Bisto Best, use wheat flour as a primary thickening agent. For a person with coeliac disease, even a small amount of gluten can trigger an immune response that damages the small intestine. This makes any standard, non-labelled Bisto gravy completely unsuitable and potentially harmful. Even if a product does not explicitly list wheat flour, other traditional thickeners can also contain gluten.
Cross-Contamination Risks
For some Bisto products, particularly in the Bisto Best line, the manufacturer notes that while they may not contain gluten-based ingredients, they are made on equipment also used for products containing wheat flour. This presents a significant risk of cross-contamination. For those with coeliac disease, who require a gluten-free diet defined as less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, this risk makes these products unsafe. The only definitive safe choice is the one explicitly certified and labelled as gluten-free.
Checking the Label: What to Look For
Before making any purchase, especially for a condition as sensitive as coeliac disease, careful label reading is non-negotiable. Here’s a quick list of what to look for:
- Clear 'Gluten Free' Label: The product name or prominent branding should clearly state 'Gluten Free'.
- Crossed Grain Symbol: This symbol from Coeliac UK is the gold standard for verifying a product's safety for celiacs.
- Ingredient List: The list of ingredients for the gluten-free version will include alternatives to wheat, such as potato starch or rice flour.
- Free From Section: Many supermarkets stock the gluten-free version in the dedicated 'Free From' aisle.
Gluten-Free Bisto vs. Traditional Bisto: A Comparison
| Feature | Bisto Gluten Free Gravy Granules | Standard Bisto Gravy Granules |
|---|---|---|
| Key Thickeners | Potato Starch, Rice Flour | Wheat Flour |
| Suitability for Celiacs | Yes, labelled 'Suitable for Coeliacs' | No, contains gluten |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Minimized, produced and certified gluten-free | Present in certain non-gluten-free lines (e.g., Bisto Best) |
| Appearance | Similar to the traditional variant, with fine granules | The familiar, original Bisto granules |
| Where to Find | 'Free From' aisle, online retailers | Main gravy or sauces aisle |
What to Do If the Gluten-Free Option Isn't Available
If you find yourself unable to locate the specific gluten-free Bisto product, do not risk it with the standard version. Instead, consider these alternatives:
- Check Other Brands: Numerous other brands offer certified gluten-free gravies. UK supermarkets like Sainsbury's and Morrisons offer their own 'Free From' gravy granules. Knorr and Marigold are also popular gluten-free choices.
- Make Your Own: Creating a delicious, naturally gluten-free gravy from scratch is surprisingly simple. A gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch, or arrowroot can be used to thicken pan drippings or a gluten-free stock.
- Read Up on Alternatives: The Coeliac UK website offers an extensive list of safe products, which is a reliable resource for navigating grocery shopping. You can check their online product directory or app before you shop.
Conclusion
While the original Bisto gravy is not suitable for individuals with coeliac disease due to its gluten content, a dedicated gluten-free version is widely available. The key is to be a vigilant label reader and specifically seek out the product marked 'Gluten Free' with the Crossed Grain symbol. If this product is unavailable, always choose a verified gluten-free alternative rather than risking cross-contamination with traditional variants. Prioritizing food safety will ensure that those with coeliac disease can still enjoy the comfort of a classic British gravy.
Where to find reliable gluten-free product information
For the most up-to-date information on gluten-free products, always consult the Coeliac UK website.
Homemade Gluten-Free Gravy Recipe
Making your own gravy is a guaranteed way to avoid gluten. Start by heating a knob of butter or a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a saucepan. Whisk in a tablespoon of gluten-free flour or cornstarch to form a smooth paste. Cook for one minute. Gradually add gluten-free stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add pan juices from your roast for extra flavour. Simmer until thickened, then season to taste. This method gives you complete control over your ingredients and ensures a safe meal.
The Role of Coeliac UK Certification
The Crossed Grain symbol, endorsed by Coeliac UK, offers a high degree of confidence for consumers. Products bearing this logo have undergone a rigorous certification process, ensuring they meet the strict standards for gluten-free foods (less than 20 ppm). Premier Foods has obtained this certification for its gluten-free Bisto, making it a reliable choice for the coeliac community.
Summary of Key Gluten-Free Bisto Information
In short, celiacs can safely enjoy Bisto gravy, but only by purchasing the specific 'Bisto Gluten Free Gravy Granules.' These are clearly labelled, suitable for vegetarians and coeliacs, and certified by Coeliac UK to minimize cross-contamination risk. Standard Bisto products are unsafe due to wheat flour content and potential cross-contamination. Always check the packaging carefully to make the correct choice.
What to Look For When Buying Bisto Gravy
When you're at the supermarket, knowing exactly what to look for is crucial. The tub of gluten-free Bisto will have distinct visual cues, typically featuring a prominent green or blue label stating 'Gluten Free' and often including the Coeliac UK logo. This stands in contrast to the traditional red or gold livery of the standard products. Remember, relying on the 'Free From' aisle is your safest bet, but always perform a quick visual check of the label before adding it to your trolley.
