Verifying the Gluten-Free Status of Bob Evans Original Sausage
For many on a gluten-free diet, a key concern is finding trusted brands that explicitly confirm their products' safety. The good news for Bob Evans sausage fans is that the company clearly labels its Original Sausage products as gluten-free on the packaging for both the roll and fully cooked varieties. This labeling is a strong indicator of compliance with FDA standards for gluten-free products, which require that a product contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.
Bob Evans Original Sausage Ingredients Breakdown
Examining the ingredients is the most reliable way to confirm the absence of gluten-containing grains. The typical ingredient list for Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage includes: Pork, Water, Salt, Spices, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), and Potassium Lactate. This list does not contain any obvious sources of gluten. While the specific spices and flavoring are proprietary blends, and MSG has caused past confusion, modern production and labeling mean that any gluten present must be declared and be below the 20 ppm threshold for a "gluten-free" label.
Potential for Cross-Contamination
Even with a clear gluten-free label, those with severe celiac disease often worry about cross-contamination. While Bob Evans labels its original sausage as gluten-free, the brand does not guarantee against cross-contamination for all its products. An older forum post mentioned a company representative indicating they couldn't guarantee all products were entirely free of gluten byproducts, though this was before current FDA regulations. The best practice is to rely on the explicit "gluten-free" label, which means steps have been taken to minimize cross-contamination below the FDA limit.
The Difference Between Bob Evans Products
Not all Bob Evans products are gluten-free. While the Original Sausage is, a 2016 list mentioned exceptions like Big Farm Original Pork Sausage Links and Hot Sausage Patties. Always read the label on each specific product package.
Comparison of Gluten-Free Sausages
| Feature | Bob Evans Original Sausage | Jones Dairy Farm Sausages | Applegate Farms Sausages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Status | Explicitly labeled as gluten-free on packaging. | All natural sausage offerings are certified gluten-free. | Many products, including sausages, are considered gluten-free. |
| Certification | Labeled by the manufacturer based on FDA regulations. | Certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Food Program (GFFP). | Relies on ingredient sourcing and product labeling. |
| Ingredients | Simple pork and spice blend, no obvious gluten sources. | Employs simple, clean ingredients, avoids binders and fillers. | Uses organic and simple ingredients, with clear labeling. |
| Availability | Widely available in many grocery stores. | Widely available, sometimes in a broader range of products. | Often found in specialty and health food sections.. |
Reading Labels for Gluten-Free Assurance
Becoming an expert label reader is essential. Beyond the 'gluten-free' claim, check the ingredient list for hidden sources like wheat starch or barley malt, unless specified as gluten-free. While Bob Evans original sausage has straightforward ingredients, other brands may not. An official certified gluten-free logo from organizations like GFFP offers extra confidence, though it's not required by the FDA.
Conclusion
Based on current labeling and ingredients, Bob Evans Original Sausage is a safe choice for a gluten-free diet. The packaging clearly states it is gluten-free, meeting FDA standards. While past concerns existed, the most current information confirms its suitability. However, those with celiac disease should always verify the specific product label, as not all Bob Evans products are gluten-free, and recipes can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bob Evans original sausage safe for people with celiac disease?
Yes, Bob Evans Original Sausage products explicitly labeled "gluten-free" are generally considered safe for people with celiac disease because they meet the FDA's strict standards of containing less than 20 ppm of gluten.
Do all Bob Evans sausage products have the gluten-free label?
No, it's crucial to check the packaging of each individual product. Historically, some products have not been confirmed as gluten-free, and product lines can change. Always look for the clear "gluten-free" label.
Can I eat Bob Evans restaurant sausage on a gluten-free diet?
Eating at a restaurant carries different risks. Consult restaurant staff about preparation methods and cross-contamination protocols, as restaurant items are prepared in a shared kitchen and may differ from retail products.
Are the ingredients in Bob Evans original sausage naturally gluten-free?
The primary ingredients—pork, water, salt, spices—are naturally gluten-free. The formulation does not contain typical gluten-containing fillers like wheat flour or breadcrumbs.
What about the MSG in Bob Evans sausage, is that a source of gluten?
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is not a source of gluten. Modern labeling regulations mean a product labeled "gluten-free" meets necessary safety standards, regardless of MSG.
Is the sausage casing on Bob Evans links gluten-free?
Yes, casings (often collagen) on fully cooked and some fresh varieties are typically gluten-free. For example, fully cooked links are labeled gluten-free and have no casing.
Why is reading the ingredient list important for sausage?
Reading the ingredient list is critical because some sausages use fillers or binders like wheat flour or breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. This is less common in brands like Bob Evans, but important to note for other products.
Does Bob Evans Original Roll Sausage contain gluten?
Based on ingredients and consumer information, the Original Roll Sausage does not contain gluten and is often considered safe, but always check the package label.
