Does Trader Joe's Have Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs?

Back in 2019, Trader Joe's launched a popular gluten-free option called 'Rice Crumbs,' but this product has since been discontinued. For shoppers still asking if Trader Joe's has gluten-free breadcrumbs, the current answer involves some DIY solutions and exploring other fantastic alternatives available in-store.

Quick Summary

Trader Joe's discontinued their gluten-free 'Rice Crumbs' product, but customers can create their own using store-bought GF bread or utilize various in-store alternatives for breading.

Key Points

• No Dedicated Product: Trader Joe's no longer sells a dedicated gluten-free breadcrumb product, having discontinued their popular 'Rice Crumbs'.

• DIY Option: Customers can easily make their own breadcrumbs by toasting and processing Trader Joe's Gluten Free White Sandwich Bread.

• Rice Crumbs Discontinued: The rice-based breadcrumbs previously sold were officially discontinued, and the standard Organic Bread Crumbs contain wheat.

• Multiple Alternatives: Excellent substitutes found at Trader Joe's include almond flour, crushed Rice Chex, and rolled oats.

• Check Labels: Always verify that any alternative products are certified gluten-free, especially with processed cereals or crackers.

• Customizable Texture: The DIY method allows you to control the texture and seasoning of your gluten-free breadcrumbs for various recipes.

No Dedicated Product: The Discontinuation of Trader Joe's Rice Crumbs

For many years, gluten-free shoppers could find a dedicated breadcrumb alternative at Trader Joe's. In 2019, the company introduced their popular "Rice Crumbs," which were made from puffed and salted white rice. This product was praised for being a great replacement for traditional breadcrumbs in a variety of dishes, including fried chicken and as a topping for casseroles. However, by 2020, reports from consumers confirmed that the product had been discontinued. As of today, Trader Joe's does not offer a specific, pre-packaged gluten-free breadcrumb or panko product. The standard Organic Bread Crumbs sold in their pantry aisle are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free. This leaves shoppers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities needing to look for alternatives.

Make Your Own Homemade Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs from Trader Joe's

One of the most reliable and affordable ways to get gluten-free breadcrumbs is to make them yourself using one of Trader Joe's many gluten-free breads. The process is simple, and it ensures you have a fresh, flavorful product. Here’s how you can do it using Trader Joe's Gluten Free White Sandwich Bread or Multigrain Bread:

Step-by-Step DIY Recipe

1. Gather Ingredients: You'll need a loaf of Trader Joe's gluten-free bread. The White Sandwich Bread is a perfect choice, as even TJ's suggests using it for homemade breadcrumbs.
2. Dry Out the Bread: To begin, either leave a few slices of bread out on the counter overnight or place them in a low-temperature oven (around 250°F) for 10-15 minutes until they are dry and hard.
3. Process: Break the dried bread into smaller pieces and place them in a food processor or a high-powered blender. Pulse the bread until you achieve the desired consistency, from a coarse, panko-like texture to a finer meal.
4. Season: For seasoned breadcrumbs, you can add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to the processor and pulse again until combined.
5. Storage: Store the finished breadcrumbs in an airtight container in the pantry for a couple of weeks, or freeze them for longer storage. This method is a budget-friendly option and minimizes food waste.

Excellent Gluten-Free Alternatives and Substitutes

Since dedicated gluten-free breadcrumbs are no longer on the shelves at Trader Joe's, exploring alternatives is the next best option. Many of these substitutes can create different textures and flavors in your recipes:

• Almond Flour/Meal: Available at Trader Joe's, almond meal offers a nutty flavor and coarse texture, perfect for dredging meats like fish or chicken.
• Crushed Rice Chex: For a tender, lighter binder in meatballs or meatloaf, crushed Rice Chex cereal is a popular, effective option.
• Pork Rinds: A low-carb, keto-friendly alternative that provides a satisfyingly crunchy texture when crushed.
• Rolled Oats: Gluten-free rolled oats, also available at TJ's, can be pulsed in a food processor to create a coarser crumb suitable for meatloaf and other binders.
• Gluten-Free Crackers: Crushed gluten-free crackers, such as those made from rice or seeds, can be used for a savory coating.
• Crushed Seeds and Nuts: Crushing Trader Joe's seeds like sunflower, sesame, or flax, or nuts, offers a distinct flavor profile and crunch.

Trader Joe's DIY vs. Dedicated Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs

When deciding between making your own gluten-free breadcrumbs with Trader Joe's ingredients or buying them elsewhere, consider the following comparison:

Feature	Trader Joe's DIY Method	Dedicated GF Brand (e.g., Target, Amazon)
Availability	Requires purchasing separate ingredients from TJ's.	Found at other grocery stores, online, or specialty shops.
Cost	Often more economical, especially when using leftover GF bread.	Varies by brand, can be more expensive than DIY.
Texture	Easily customizable, from fine to coarse, based on processing.	Predetermined texture (e.g., panko or fine crumbs).
Ingredients	You control the ingredients and can add custom seasonings.	Ingredients and seasonings are pre-selected by the manufacturer.
Freshness	Always fresh, made on demand.	Relies on shelf life; some brands may taste stale if not used quickly.
Convenience	More time-consuming, requires preparation.	Quick and ready to use straight from the package.
Panko Option	Can mimic panko with a coarse grind.	Specific panko options are widely available.

The Best Course of Action for the Gluten-Free Shopper

Since Trader Joe's no longer carries a pre-made gluten-free breadcrumb product, the best course of action depends on your needs. For those who prioritize cost and flavor customization, the DIY method using Trader Joe's own gluten-free bread is an excellent choice. This approach is also great for minimizing food waste by repurposing bread ends. For shoppers prioritizing convenience, exploring the wide range of in-store alternatives at Trader Joe's, such as almond meal or crushed Rice Chex, provides quick and easy solutions for various recipes. If you prefer a traditional pre-packaged gluten-free breadcrumb or panko, you will need to shop at other stores, as dedicated brands from retailers like Target or available online are more likely to offer these specific products. Regardless of the path you choose, having knowledge of these alternatives ensures you can continue to enjoy your favorite breaded and crispy dishes while maintaining a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

To answer the question definitively: no, Trader Joe's does not currently sell a pre-made gluten-free breadcrumb product, having discontinued their "Rice Crumbs" several years ago. However, this does not mean gluten-free shoppers are without options at this beloved store. By making your own breadcrumbs from Trader Joe's gluten-free breads or utilizing the many creative alternatives available, you can achieve the same delicious results for your recipes. The key is to be adaptable and explore the variety of naturally gluten-free products that offer a perfect substitute, from crunchy coatings to effective binders. For comprehensive information and other gluten-free recommendations, sources like MI Gluten Free Gal can provide additional guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Trader Joe's sell gluten-free panko breadcrumbs?

No, Trader Joe's does not currently sell a gluten-free panko product. You will need to look at other retailers or use an alternative like coarsely crushed gluten-free rice crackers to create a crispy coating.

What happened to Trader Joe's Rice Crumbs?

The 'Rice Crumbs' product, which was a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs made from rice, has been officially discontinued. The product was popular but was removed from shelves several years ago.

Can I use Trader Joe's gluten-free bread to make my own breadcrumbs?

Yes, Trader Joe's specifically mentions their Gluten Free White Sandwich Bread can be used to make homemade gluten-free breadcrumbs by toasting and blending it in a food processor.

What are some good substitutes for breadcrumbs at Trader Joe's?

Excellent alternatives available at Trader Joe's include almond flour, crushed Rice Chex cereal, and rolled oats. Crushed pork rinds or certain gluten-free crackers also work well.

Are Trader Joe's Organic Bread Crumbs gluten-free?

No, the regular Organic Bread Crumbs sold by Trader Joe's contain wheat flour and are not a safe option for those following a gluten-free diet.

What's a good binder for meatballs if I can't use breadcrumbs?

For meatballs, crushed Rice Chex cereal or almond meal can be used as a gluten-free binder. Crushed Rice Chex is often noted for creating a tender, lighter texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.

How can I make a crunchy gluten-free coating using Trader Joe's ingredients?

You can create a crunchy coating by combining almond flour with seasonings or by crushing TJ's Gluten Free Norwegian Crispbread in a food processor. Another option is using finely crushed pork rinds.