Understanding Zatarain's Gluten Labeling
Zatarain's, a brand owned by McCormick, has made efforts to clarify the gluten status of many of its products, but it is not a blanket policy. The company follows standard labeling practices, which means they will always declare a gluten-containing ingredient, such as "wheat," "barley," or "rye," directly in the ingredients list. This is helpful for individuals with mild gluten sensitivity but may not be sufficient for those with celiac disease due to potential cross-contact risks.
How to Verify Zatarain's Products
To determine if a specific Zatarain's product is gluten-free, follow these steps:
- Look for the "Gluten Free" Seal: Many Zatarain's rice mixes and other products now prominently feature a 'Gluten Free' seal or claim on the front of the packaging. This indicates that the product has been validated to be gluten-free, often through testing to ensure it meets legal standards (less than 20 ppm gluten). Some products are even certified by third parties like the GFCO, but you must check each individual package.
- Read the Ingredient List: Always check the ingredient statement for common names of gluten sources, such as "wheat flour" or "malted barley flour." Even if a product does not carry a specific gluten-free claim, a simple ingredient list without these items suggests it may be gluten-free by formulation.
- Be Aware of Cross-Contamination: For individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity, the risk of cross-contamination in facilities that also process gluten-containing products is a concern. While McCormick has sanitation and hygiene programs, only products with a validated "Gluten Free" claim are considered safe from this risk during production.
Gluten-Containing vs. Gluten-Free Zatarain's Products
Navigating the Zatarain's product line requires careful attention to the labels. Many of their convenience mixes contain gluten, while a growing number of others are now explicitly labeled gluten-free.
A Tale of Two Products: Gumbo Mix vs. Fish Fri
Take the example of Zatarain's Gumbo Mix and their Seasoned Fish Fri. The standard Gumbo Mix is not gluten-free and explicitly lists "enriched bleached wheat flour" in its ingredients, making it unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. In contrast, Zatarain's offers a Seasoned Fish Fri that is corn-based and clearly labeled gluten-free on the packaging, serving as a safe alternative. This stark difference highlights why checking each product individually is non-negotiable.
Comparison of Common Zatarain's Products
| Product | Gluten-Free Status | Key Ingredient Insight | Suitable for Celiacs? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creole Seasoning (Bottle) | Likely gluten-free by formulation | No gluten ingredients listed; company states gluten will be declared. | Safe, but check label for any changes. |
| Gumbo Mix (Boxed) | Contains gluten | Explicitly lists "enriched bleached wheat flour". | Not safe. |
| Jambalaya Mix (Boxed) | Some are labeled gluten-free | A gluten-free version is available and labeled as such. | Only if clearly labeled 'Gluten Free'. |
| Red Beans & Rice Mix (Boxed) | Contains gluten | May contain wheat flour and malted barley. | Not safe. |
| Fish Fri (Boxed) | Some are labeled gluten-free | A corn-based, labeled gluten-free version exists. | Only if clearly labeled 'Gluten Free'. |
| Spanish Rice Mix (Boxed) | Some are labeled gluten-free | A validated gluten-free version is available. | Only if clearly labeled 'Gluten Free'. |
| Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil | Likely gluten-free by formulation | Company states it is not formulated with gluten. | Safe, but check for any 'Gluten Free' seal if highly sensitive. |
The Role of Spices and Flavorings
One common area of confusion for those following a gluten-free diet is the status of spices and flavorings. Zatarain's, as part of McCormick, provides clear guidance on this. They do not hide gluten under the general terms "spices" or "natural flavors." If gluten is present in a seasoning mix, it will be explicitly listed. This makes their simple seasoning blends, like the bottled Creole Seasoning, a reliable choice for many.
However, this rule applies to the dry seasonings, not necessarily their pre-packaged meal mixes, which often contain flour-based thickeners or binders. For example, a dry seasoning might be gluten-free, but a boxed rice mix with the same flavor profile could contain wheat. This is why the distinction between individual seasonings and complete meal mixes is so important. When purchasing, focus on the specific product, not just the brand or flavor name.
Making a Safe Choice for a Gluten-Free Lifestyle
For those with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, the safest course of action is to only use Zatarain's products that are explicitly labeled "Gluten Free". This designation signifies that the product has undergone validation processes to ensure it meets safe gluten-free thresholds and minimizes cross-contact risk. Relying on the absence of gluten-containing ingredients alone, while a good indicator, may not be enough for those who are highly sensitive. When in doubt, contacting McCormick's customer service for the most up-to-date information is a prudent step, or checking with a third-party certifier like Gluten Free Watchdog is an option. The key is vigilance and reading every label, every time.
Conclusion: A Clearer Picture of Zatarain's and Gluten
The question of "Does Zatarain's seasoning have gluten?" doesn't have a single answer. It depends entirely on the specific product. While many individual seasonings and a growing number of rice mixes are labeled gluten-free, other products, particularly boxed meal mixes, contain gluten ingredients like wheat flour. For the highest level of assurance, especially for those with celiac disease, always choose products with a certified gluten-free label. For a comprehensive overview of gluten-free guidelines and products, resources like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization provide valuable information. By understanding the labeling system and differentiating between product types, consumers can safely enjoy the authentic flavors of New Orleans.
Resources and Further Reading
- Beyond Celiac: Resource on Zatarain's labeled gluten-free rice mixes.
