Does Costco Carry Gluten Free Bread? Brands, Availability, and Tips

Millions of individuals in North America follow a gluten-free diet, a number that has been steadily increasing. A common question is whether Costco offers suitable bread options to accommodate dietary needs.

Quick Summary

Costco often stocks gluten-free bread from brands like Canyon Bakehouse and Franz, though availability varies. Shoppers can check online or use delivery apps to verify current inventory. Consideration of cross-contamination risks is also crucial for those with celiac disease.

Key Points

• Availability Varies: Costco carries gluten-free bread, but the specific brands and availability depend on your location and the current stock rotation, so check online or with a same-day delivery service.

• Check Online or App: The most reliable way to check current inventory is by searching the Costco website or using a delivery app like Instacart for your local store.

• Common Brands: Look for popular brands such as Canyon Bakehouse, Franz, and BFree Foods, which are frequently stocked in bulk packs.

• Prevent Cross-Contamination: For celiac disease, use a dedicated toaster, cutting board, and utensils for gluten-free products to prevent cross-contact with gluten-containing foods.

• Store Safely: Always store gluten-free bread in a separate, sealed container and consider freezing loaves to extend freshness, a good practice for bulk purchases.

• Consider the Value: Costco's gluten-free bread often provides significant cost savings compared to smaller loaves sold at conventional grocery stores, especially when bought in bulk.

• Look for Certifications: Always check the product packaging for a certified gluten-free label, such as the GFCO mark, for extra assurance of safety.

Current Gluten-Free Bread Brands at Costco

Costco is known for rotating its stock, but it often features several reliable, certified gluten-free bread brands. The availability of specific brands can depend on the region and the time of year.

Canyon Bakehouse Multigrain Bread

Canyon Bakehouse is a well-regarded gluten-free brand frequently found at Costco Business Centers and sometimes through same-day delivery services. Their multigrain bread is a popular choice for its soft texture and hearty flavor. It is certified gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and soy-free.

Franz Gluten Free 7 Grain Bread

Franz is another brand that regularly makes an appearance at Costco, especially through the Business Center and same-day delivery. This 7-grain variety is noted for its good taste and quality. It is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility.

BFree White Loaf Bread

BFree Foods is a brand that has been spotted at Costco locations, offering a soft white sourdough loaf. This particular bread is praised by many in the gluten-free community for its impressive texture, which mimics traditional bread more closely than many other alternatives. Checking Costco's online store or a same-day delivery service can confirm its current availability.

Other Potential Finds

While the above brands are consistent, shoppers in different regions or at different times of the year may discover other options. The best approach is to check the current online listings or visit the warehouse in person. Costco also offers other gluten-free bakery items, like bagels or English muffins, that may be available seasonally.

How to Find Gluten-Free Bread at Your Local Costco

Finding your desired gluten-free product at Costco can require a bit of detective work due to fluctuating stock. Here are some strategies to improve your chances:

• Check Online First: Use the Costco website or app to search for "gluten-free bread" and filter by your local warehouse.
• Utilize Same-Day Delivery: Services like Instacart, which partners with Costco, offer a quick way to see what is available for immediate delivery from your local club.
• Visit in Person: The baked goods section is the most likely place to find bread, but check the freezer section as well.
• Read the Signs: Look for signs indicating new products or specials.

A Guide to Common Gluten-Free Bread Options at Costco

| Feature | Canyon Bakehouse Multigrain | Franz Gluten Free 7 Grain | BFree White Loaf | General Availability | Often available through Costco Business & online | Common at Costco Business & same-day delivery | Seen at various Costco locations | Taste Profile | Earthy, wholesome, and hearty | Classic and versatile 7-grain flavor | Light, fluffy, and very similar to traditional bread | Common Use | Great for robust sandwiches and toast | Everyday sandwich and toast bread | Best for soft sandwiches and lunchboxes | Key Certifications | Certified Gluten-Free | Dedicated Gluten-Free Facility | Certified Gluten-Free (Check packaging) | Texture | Soft and slightly dense | Standard soft bread texture | Exceptionally soft and tender |

Important Information for Celiac Disease Sufferers

For individuals with celiac disease, minimizing cross-contamination is non-negotiable. While Costco stocks certified gluten-free products, the handling of these items after purchase is critical.

Storing Your Bread

Store gluten-free bread in its own sealed container or freezer bag. When buying from Costco, which often sells items in bulk, it's wise to freeze one of the loaves to maintain freshness. Freezing slices individually can also make them easy to grab and toast. To further reduce contamination risk, label your gluten-free bread clearly and store it on a separate shelf, ideally above gluten-containing products.

Preventing Cross-Contamination at Home

If you share a kitchen with non-gluten-free individuals, follow these best practices:

• Use a separate toaster or toaster bags. Standard toasters are a major source of cross-contamination from crumbs.
• Designate a specific set of utensils and a cutting board. While cleaning can help, having dedicated equipment is safer.
• Clean surfaces meticulously. Wipe down all counters before preparing gluten-free food, and use separate dishcloths.
• Avoid shared spreads and condiments. Use squeezable bottles for condiments or dedicated jars of butter and jam to avoid gluten crumbs from knives.

Conclusion

Costco carries gluten-free bread, offering bulk options from brands like Canyon Bakehouse and Franz. Checking local availability online or through same-day delivery services is key, as stock can change. Combining savvy shopping with strict cross-contamination prevention at home, those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy quality, affordable bread from their Costco membership.

Is Costco's Gluten-Free Bread Worth It?

Costco's bulk gluten-free bread offers significant value for those who consume it regularly. The brands carried are generally high-quality and the pricing is often more competitive than buying smaller loaves at a regular grocery store. However, the rotating stock means a specific brand is not always guaranteed. For many, the convenience and savings outweigh the occasional need to check inventory.

Next Steps for the Gluten-Free Shopper

For those starting their gluten-free journey or simply looking for reliable sources, check the brand's certifications on their website before purchasing. Reputable certifications, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), verify that products contain 10 ppm or less of gluten. This extra step provides peace of mind for those with medical necessity.

Final Thoughts on Costco's Gluten-Free Bread

Overall, Costco is a strong resource for the gluten-free community. Their commitment to carrying reliable brands provides a much-needed option for shoppers seeking bulk savings on specialized dietary products. Remember to always check current availability and prioritize safety by preventing cross-contamination in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brands of gluten-free bread does Costco typically carry?

Costco typically carries well-known gluten-free brands such as Canyon Bakehouse, Franz, and BFree Foods, though the specific brands and product types can vary by location and time.

Is gluten-free bread at Costco cheaper than at other stores?

Yes, buying gluten-free bread at Costco in bulk is often significantly cheaper per ounce than purchasing smaller loaves at conventional grocery stores.

How can I check if my local Costco has gluten-free bread in stock?

You can check current availability by visiting the Costco website or app, entering your ZIP code, and searching for the products. You can also use same-day delivery services to see what's currently available.

Is all bread sold at Costco gluten-free?

No, only specific brands and products are gluten-free. The bakery section's main items, like croissants and rolls, are not gluten-free. You must specifically seek out the certified gluten-free brands.

What should I do to prevent cross-contamination at home with Costco bread?

To prevent cross-contamination, use separate toasters or toaster bags, dedicated cutting boards and utensils, and store your gluten-free bread away from gluten-containing products.

Where in the Costco warehouse is gluten-free bread usually located?

Gluten-free bread can be found in the baked goods aisle with other bread or in the freezer section. Stock rotation means its location can occasionally change.

Do I need to be a Costco member to buy their gluten-free bread online?

Yes, a Costco membership is required for most online purchases from Costco.com. However, same-day delivery services may have different requirements.