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Does Campbell's cream of mushroom soup have gluten in it?

2 min read

Over 1 in 5 Americans avoid gluten, making the gluten content of pantry staples a critical nutritional question. For decades, the answer to 'Does Campbell's cream of mushroom soup have gluten in it?' was a simple 'yes' due to its wheat flour content. However, a significant product innovation in recent years has changed the landscape for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

The standard Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free. However, the company now offers a distinct product labeled 'Gluten-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup' specifically formulated without wheat to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.

Key Points

  • Standard soup has gluten: The classic Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free.

  • A gluten-free version exists: In 2023, Campbell's launched a separate condensed gluten-free cream of mushroom soup specifically for those with sensitivities.

  • Check the label carefully: Always look for the 'Gluten-Free' label on the can, as the standard and gluten-free versions are distinct products.

  • Ingredients confirm gluten status: The standard soup lists 'wheat flour,' while the gluten-free version uses rice flour and modified cornstarch as thickeners.

  • Homemade offers full control: Making your own cream of mushroom soup from scratch is the safest option for strict gluten-free diets, as it gives you complete control over ingredients and eliminates the risk of cross-contamination.

  • Consider other brands: If a Campbell's gluten-free version isn't available, other brands like Progresso or Pacific Foods also offer certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soups.

In This Article

Standard vs. Gluten-Free: A Tale of Two Soups

The standard Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup is not gluten-free because its traditional recipe uses wheat flour as a thickening agent. This is important for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Recognizing this need, Campbell's introduced a separate condensed gluten-free version in 2023. This means consumers must check the label carefully to ensure they are purchasing the correct product.

The All-Important Ingredients List

The key difference lies in the ingredients. The standard soup includes 'Wheat Flour'. In contrast, the gluten-free version uses alternatives like modified cornstarch and rice flour for thickening, containing no wheat. These ingredient differences make the standard soup a risk for gluten-free diets, while the gluten-free version is safe. More details on the ingredients for the standard soup can be found on {Link: The Campbell's Company https://www.campbells.com/products/condensed/cream-of-mushroom-soup/} and for the gluten-free version on {Link: Campbells.com https://www.campbells.com/products/condensed/gluten-free-cream-of-mushroom-soup/}.

Navigating the Grocery Aisle for Gluten-Free Needs

Careful label reading is essential for a gluten-free diet. While a gluten-free version is available, it's crucial to distinguish it from the standard soup. Look for the explicit 'Gluten-Free' label on the can's front. For those with celiac disease, certified gluten-free products are important due to cross-contamination concerns in manufacturing.

A Comparison: Standard vs. Gluten-Free Soup

Feature Standard Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup Gluten-Free Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
Gluten Status Contains Gluten (unsafe for celiac disease) Gluten-Free (safe for celiac disease)
Thickener Wheat Flour Rice Flour, Modified Cornstarch
Appearance Packaging does not indicate 'Gluten-Free' Clearly labeled 'Gluten-Free' on packaging
Best For Recipes and meals for individuals without gluten sensitivities Gluten-free recipes and individuals with gluten sensitivities
Ingredients Contains Wheat, Milk, Soy Contains Milk, Soy, No Wheat

The Appeal of Homemade Gluten-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

Making homemade cream of mushroom soup offers complete control over ingredients, preventing hidden gluten and allowing sodium adjustment. A homemade version can be made with simple ingredients and gluten-free thickeners like rice flour or arrowroot starch, often resulting in a fresher, more flavorful, and potentially lower-sodium soup.

Conclusion

The original Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup contains gluten from wheat flour. However, a dedicated, clearly labeled gluten-free condensed version is now available, using alternative thickeners like rice flour. For individuals managing gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it is vital to check the specific product label. Both the convenient gluten-free can and homemade options provide ways to enjoy cream of mushroom soup while following a gluten-free diet. More information on Campbell's gluten-free offerings is available on their official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the original Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup is not suitable for a gluten-free diet, as it contains wheat flour as a thickening agent.

Yes, Campbell's announced the launch of a dedicated 'Condensed Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup' in July 2023, which is made without wheat.

The main difference is the thickener. The standard soup uses wheat flour, while the gluten-free version substitutes it with alternative starches like rice flour and modified cornstarch.

You must carefully read the label on the can. Look for the distinct 'Gluten-Free' claim printed on the packaging to ensure you are purchasing the correct product.

No, individuals with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance must avoid the original version due to its wheat flour content.

Yes, besides Campbell's new gluten-free option, other brands like Progresso and Pacific Foods also offer gluten-free versions of cream of mushroom soup.

Making homemade soup is often the safest choice for strict gluten-free diets, as it gives you complete control over ingredients and eliminates the risk of cross-contamination.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.