Understanding the Ingredients in Mission Tortilla Strips
At their core, Mission tortilla strips are primarily made from corn masa flour, a naturally gluten-free ingredient. A review of the ingredient list for many of their corn tortilla strips confirms a simple formula consisting of corn masa flour, water, vegetable oil (cottonseed, corn, and/or sunflower), and sea salt. The absence of wheat, barley, or rye in the formulation is the first step toward confirming they are gluten-free.
The Importance of Corn Masa Flour
Corn is a naturally gluten-free grain, making it a safe base for a gluten-free diet. However, not all corn-based products are automatically safe due to potential cross-contamination. Mission's use of corn masa flour, a traditional ingredient for tortillas, is a key indicator of the product's natural gluten-free composition.
Mission Foods' Allergen Control and Manufacturing Process
Mission Foods has addressed concerns regarding gluten and cross-contamination directly on their website, providing clear information for consumers.
- Dedicated Production Lines: The company uses dedicated production lines for their corn products, which are separate from the lines used for manufacturing wheat-based products like flour tortillas and wraps. This segregation is a critical step in preventing cross-contamination from ingredients like wheat flour.
- Allergen Control Program: Mission Foods implements a comprehensive allergen control program across all their facilities. This program includes strict sanitation procedures and is designed to prevent unintended contact between different ingredients.
- Labeling Policy: The company adheres to all government regulations regarding product labeling. They list any of the major allergens, including wheat, clearly on the product ingredient statement, and consumers are encouraged to check the packaging.
Comparison: Corn vs. Wheat Tortilla Products
To better understand the distinction, consider the fundamental difference in ingredients and manufacturing for corn-based vs. wheat-based products from Mission Foods. This table outlines the key differences that impact gluten content.
| Feature | Mission Corn Tortilla Strips | Mission Wheat Tortillas / Wraps |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Corn Masa Flour | Wheat Flour |
| Contains Gluten? | No (naturally gluten-free formulation) | Yes (made from wheat) |
| Dedicated Lines? | Yes, produced on separate corn-only lines. | Yes, produced on separate wheat-only lines. |
| Manufacturing Risk | Minimal risk of cross-contamination due to dedicated lines and allergen controls. | High gluten content; not suitable for a gluten-free diet. |
| Suitable for Celiacs? | Generally considered safe, but certified gluten-free versions offer higher assurance. | Not suitable, contains gluten. |
The Role of Certification and Labeling
While the company's internal controls are strong, some individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity may prefer products that bear a third-party certification mark. Historically, Mission removed the 'gluten-free' label from some packaging due to a temporary regulatory issue but later reconfirmed and, in some markets, certified their corn products. For the highest level of assurance, look for the 'Certified Gluten-Free' logo on the packaging, though the standard corn tortilla strips are generally regarded as safe.
What to Look for on the Package
When purchasing Mission tortilla strips or any other product, a diligent shopper should always check the label. Key things to look for include:
- Ingredient List: Verify that the only flour listed is corn masa flour. Look for wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.
- Allergen Statement: Review the allergen information to confirm that no wheat is listed.
- Certified Label: Search for a 'Certified Gluten-Free' logo for maximum peace of mind.
Conclusion: Navigating the Gluten-Free Landscape
For those wondering, 'Do Mission tortilla strips have gluten?', the answer is reassuringly no, as the standard corn tortilla strips are made without gluten-containing ingredients and with robust controls to prevent cross-contamination. The company's use of dedicated corn-only lines and comprehensive allergen protocols make them a trustworthy option for many on a gluten-free diet. However, the key to safety for anyone with celiac disease or a serious sensitivity is to always check the product's packaging for the most current ingredient information and, if possible, look for products that carry a certified gluten-free logo.
For more detailed information on their allergen policies, you can visit the Mission Foods FAQ page on their website.
Considerations for Highly Sensitive Individuals
While Mission's procedures are robust, no shared facility can offer a 100% guarantee against minute trace amounts of cross-contact. Individuals with severe celiac disease or extreme sensitivities may opt for products from completely dedicated, gluten-free facilities. However, Mission's long-standing policy of using dedicated production lines and their clear communication generally make their corn products a safe choice for the vast majority of people avoiding gluten.
