Yes, Real Good Chicken Tenders Are Gluten-Free
For those on a gluten-free diet, Real Good Foods provides a reliable and transparent answer: their chicken tenders are indeed gluten-free. The company has built its brand around creating delicious, nutritious, and accessible frozen meals using real, simple ingredients. This includes a clear commitment to avoiding gluten and grains in many of their products, particularly their breaded chicken items. They state on their website that their breaded chicken products are grain-free and gluten-free, using chickpea flour and whey protein concentrate for their coating instead of standard wheat-based flours.
The Breading: A Gluten-Free Innovation
Real Good Foods distinguishes its products from many competitors by focusing on low-carb and grain-free alternatives. This approach is evident in the ingredients for their Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips. Instead of a typical breading that relies on wheat, the brand uses a combination of chickpea flour, whey protein concentrate, and eggs. Chickpea flour is a nutrient-dense and naturally gluten-free legume-based flour that provides the desired texture and crispiness without the need for wheat. This innovation is key for consumers who must avoid gluten but still want to enjoy classic comfort foods like chicken tenders.
Cross-Contamination Policies at Real Good Foods
One of the most significant concerns for individuals with celiac disease is the risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing. Real Good Foods addresses this concern directly in their FAQ section, detailing their safety protocols. While some products containing tortillas (like enchiladas or burritos) do contain gluten, the company ensures that equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized according to USDA guidelines after running products containing gluten. This process is crucial for maintaining the integrity of their gluten-free certified items.
Gluten-Free Alternatives and Considerations
While Real Good Foods provides an excellent gluten-free option, it's worth noting other choices for those on a strict diet. Many brands now offer gluten-free chicken tenders, and homemade versions are also a popular choice. When comparing different options, key factors include ingredient transparency, potential cross-contamination risks, and nutritional content. The table below compares Real Good tenders to typical wheat-based chicken tenders and a homemade gluten-free alternative.
| Feature | Real Good Lightly Breaded Chicken Tenders | Typical Wheat-Based Chicken Tenders | Homemade Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breading Type | Chickpea flour, whey protein | Wheat flour | Rice flour, cornmeal, or crushed gluten-free cereal |
| Carb Content | Low carb (typically 3g net carbs) | Higher carb (varies, often 10g+ per serving) | Varies based on ingredients used |
| Protein Content | High protein (20-23g per serving) | Varies | High protein |
| Allergen Info | Gluten-free, contains milk and egg | Contains gluten, may contain other allergens | Avoids gluten, cross-contamination depends on preparation area |
| Preparation | Ready to cook (oven, air fryer) | Ready to cook or pre-cooked (oven, deep fry) | Requires manual preparation |
| Ingredient Quality | Emphasizes real, simple ingredients | Can contain artificial additives | Full control over ingredients |
Why Real Good Stands Out
For many, Real Good Foods' product is a standout not just for its gluten-free status, but for its additional health-conscious attributes. The brand’s focus on using real, high-quality ingredients, keeping carbohydrate counts low, and boosting protein content appeals to a wider audience than just those with gluten sensitivities. For instance, the use of chickpea flour not only replaces gluten but also adds a source of fiber and protein, aligning with keto and low-carb lifestyles. This versatility expands its market and provides a healthier alternative for everyone, not just those with specific dietary needs.
The Importance of Labeling
For consumers with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance, the official "Gluten-Free" labeling is more than a suggestion; it is a critical safety measure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specific rules governing gluten-free claims, requiring that any product labeled as such contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. Real Good Foods adheres to these standards, but it's always wise for extremely sensitive individuals to verify specific batch information and to purchase from a retailer they trust. The company’s transparency about shared equipment for non-gluten products is a good practice, and their sanitization procedures help mitigate risk.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, "Do Real Good chicken tenders have gluten?" is a definitive no. The brand has specifically formulated its lightly breaded chicken strips and tenders to be gluten-free, using alternative flours like chickpea flour. Their commitment to transparency, clear labeling, and safe manufacturing practices makes them a trusted option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, consumers should always double-check the label for specific product variations and any potential cross-contamination warnings, especially for the brand's other product lines that may contain gluten.
More Information on Real Good Foods' Gluten-Free Products
For more details on Real Good Foods' product lines and ingredient sourcing, you can visit their official website [https://realgoodfoods.com/pages/faqs].
A Quick Guide to Making Your Own Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders
For those who prefer a homemade approach, creating your own gluten-free chicken tenders is straightforward. By using alternative flours and simple techniques, you can ensure a delicious and safe meal. The process typically involves cutting chicken breast into strips, creating a dredging station with egg wash, and a breading mixture of your choice. Popular gluten-free breading options include crushed gluten-free crackers, cornmeal, almond flour, or rice flour mixed with seasonings. After coating, simply bake or air-fry the tenders until golden and crispy for a guaranteed gluten-free meal.
A Comprehensive Review of Real Good Foods' Gluten-Free Claims
Beyond just their chicken tenders, Real Good Foods has an extensive range of gluten-free offerings, with only a few specific items containing gluten due to their ingredients (such as tortillas in enchiladas). Their dedication to providing low-carb and gluten-free solutions across multiple product categories showcases their strong commitment to accommodating a variety of dietary needs. This consistent brand messaging and product formulation is why many consumers trust the Real Good Foods name when seeking gluten-free frozen meals.
The Health Benefits of Chickpea Flour
Chickpea flour, or gram flour, is a healthier alternative to wheat flour and offers several nutritional benefits. It is rich in fiber and protein, which helps with satiety and blood sugar management. When used in the breading for chicken tenders, it can contribute to a lower glycemic load and a higher protein content, making the final product more nutritious and filling. This choice of ingredient aligns with Real Good Foods’ mission to provide healthier, real-food alternatives to traditional comfort foods.
Allergen Management for At-Risk Consumers
For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies, managing allergen exposure goes beyond simply reading a product label. The potential for cross-contamination, even in certified gluten-free products, is a real concern. While Real Good Foods follows strict protocols, those with high sensitivity should still exercise caution. This might involve preparing these products in a separate area from any gluten-containing foods or using dedicated kitchen equipment to ensure no gluten residue is transferred.
Conclusion: A Trustworthy Option for Gluten-Free Tenders
Ultimately, Real Good Foods' chicken tenders stand out as a highly reliable option for anyone needing a gluten-free choice. Their clear labeling, use of alternative flour, and transparent safety protocols provide peace of mind. For those following low-carb or keto diets, the tenders' nutritional profile offers an added benefit. Whether you are new to a gluten-free diet or a seasoned expert, these tenders offer a convenient, tasty, and safe solution for a classic comfort food craving.
