Yes, Whole Foods Carries Gluten-Free Bagels
For anyone with celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or simply a dietary preference, finding safe and tasty alternatives can be a challenge. Thankfully, Whole Foods Market is a reliable destination for gluten-free bagels, providing a robust selection that includes their own house brand and several popular third-party manufacturers. The bagels are typically found in the frozen foods section, which helps prevent cross-contamination from the bakery's conventional products, though some varieties may be located in the fresh bread aisle.
The Whole Foods 365 Gluten-Free Line
Whole Foods' store brand, 365 by Whole Foods Market, offers its own certified gluten-free bagels. These are a consistent and reliable option for many shoppers. The 365 Gluten-Free Plain Bagels, for instance, are made with a blend of alternative flours, including brown rice and buckwheat, and use sunflower seed oil for a soft, satisfying texture. Look for the distinctive 365 packaging in the frozen section. The certification process for these products, confirmed via a third-party, offers extra reassurance for those with strict dietary needs.
National Brands You Can Find
Beyond the store brand, Whole Foods regularly stocks a variety of well-known national gluten-free brands. This extensive selection gives customers more choices in flavor, texture, and ingredients. Some of the most commonly available brands include:
- Canyon Bakehouse: A popular and trusted brand in the gluten-free community, Canyon Bakehouse offers a variety of bagels, including Everything Bagels and Plain Bagels. They are known for a softer, more traditional bread texture compared to some other brands. The company even states their bagels are made with a savory blend of ingredients, aiming for a true New York bagel experience.
- Udi's Gluten Free: One of the pioneering brands in gluten-free baking, Udi's is a staple at Whole Foods. They offer soft and chewy bagels in Plain and Cinnamon Raisin flavors, providing familiar favorites to those on a restricted diet.
- Against The Grain: For those looking for something a bit different, Against the Grain offers gluten-free Sesame Bagels with a rich, bready texture. Their products are often found frozen and provide a different flavor profile than rice-based alternatives. Some of their products even contain cheese, so always check the labels for other allergens.
- Franz Bakery: This bakery offers a line of gluten-free products, and their bagels are occasionally available at Whole Foods. The ingredients list often includes a mix of brown rice flour and tapioca starch for a classic bagel texture.
- Deland Bakery: For shoppers seeking vegan options, Deland Bakery offers a certified gluten-free and vegan bagel that is free from a host of major allergens. It's a great choice for those with multiple dietary restrictions.
Where to Find Them in Store
To successfully locate gluten-free bagels, focus your search on a couple of key areas. Your first stop should be the frozen foods section, specifically the aisle dedicated to frozen bread, waffles, and other breakfast items. Here you will find the 365 brand, Canyon Bakehouse, Udi's, and others. The refrigerated section, near specialty cheeses, may sometimes house fresh gluten-free breads, but for bagels, the freezer is the most reliable place to start. Finally, always be aware that the in-store bakery's fresh bagels are not gluten-free and present a high risk of cross-contamination. Sticking to the packaged, labeled products is the safest approach.
Comparison Table: Gluten-Free Bagels at Whole Foods
| Brand | Primary Flavors | Key Features | Typical Location | Common Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 365 by WFM | Plain | Certified GF, Third-Party Verified | Frozen Aisle | Contains Egg Whites |
| Canyon Bakehouse | Plain, Everything | Soft texture, Larger slice size | Frozen Aisle | Contains Eggs |
| Udi's | Plain, Cinnamon Raisin | Classic soft & chewy texture | Frozen Aisle | Contains Eggs |
| Against The Grain | Sesame | Bready texture, Cheese-based | Frozen Aisle | Contains Eggs, Dairy (Check Label) |
| Deland Bakery | Plain, Vegan | Certified GF, Vegan, Allergen-Free | Varies, Check Freezer | Egg-free, Dairy-free |
| Franz Bakery | Plain | Rice-based flour blend | Frozen Aisle | Contains Eggs |
How to Get the Best Results
Once you have your bagels, proper preparation is key. Many frozen gluten-free bagels benefit from a little extra love. For optimal results, thaw the bagels slightly before toasting. For the best flavor and texture, toast the bagels lightly, or for a softer interior, try microwaving for a few seconds before toasting. For a fun, soft-baked texture, consider cutting them into bagel chips and baking them with a little olive oil and seasoning. Always follow the manufacturer's directions, but don't be afraid to experiment to find your preferred method.
Whole Foods' Commitment to Special Diets
Whole Foods Market is well-regarded for its extensive special diets section. The store's commitment extends beyond bagels to offer a wide array of products for those following a gluten-free diet. They even provide resources like shopping lists and meal plans for guidance. By carrying a range of trusted brands and clearly labeling its own products, Whole Foods makes it easier for consumers to navigate their dietary needs. For additional information on their commitment to gluten-free options, you can visit the official Whole Foods special diets page.
Conclusion
In short, shoppers can confidently find a selection of delicious gluten-free bagels at Whole Foods Market. The store offers choices from its affordable 365 brand as well as popular options from respected gluten-free bakers like Canyon Bakehouse and Udi's. By checking the frozen foods section and sticking to clearly labeled, packaged products, individuals on a gluten-free diet can easily enjoy a classic breakfast staple without worry.
