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Is great value vegetable broth gluten-free?

4 min read

According to product listings on Walmart's website, both the Great Value Organic and standard Vegetable Broth varieties are explicitly labeled as gluten-free. This is a crucial piece of information for shoppers with dietary restrictions, confirming that great value vegetable broth is gluten-free and a reliable choice for their needs.

Quick Summary

Both standard and organic Great Value vegetable broths are officially labeled gluten-free by Walmart, making them safe for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Consumers should always check product packaging for any ingredient or manufacturing updates to ensure the latest information.

Key Points

  • Explicitly Labeled: Both Great Value Organic and standard vegetable broths are clearly labeled as gluten-free on their packaging.

  • Check Labels for Changes: Always check the 'gluten-free' statement on the carton before purchase, as product formulations can change over time.

  • Safe Yeast Extract: The yeast extract in these broths is derived from a gluten-free source, making it safe for those with celiac disease.

  • Organic vs. Standard: Both versions are gluten-free, but differ slightly in ingredients; the organic option uses USDA-certified organic vegetables.

  • Consider Homemade for Total Control: For individuals with severe sensitivities or who prefer complete control, making homemade broth from scratch is a safe alternative.

  • Rely on Explicit Labels: For store-bought broth, an explicit gluten-free label is the most reliable indicator of safety, rather than assuming all vegetable broth is gluten-free.

In This Article

Is Great Value Vegetable Broth Gluten-Free? A Complete Guide

For anyone with celiac disease, a gluten intolerance, or a wheat allergy, checking the ingredients and certifications on food products is a daily necessity. When it comes to store-brand products, like Walmart's 'Great Value' line, this can be particularly important as formulations can sometimes vary. The good news for those with gluten sensitivities is that Walmart’s Great Value Vegetable Broth and Organic Vegetable Broth are both explicitly labeled as gluten-free on their packaging. This declaration is a strong indicator of safety for consumers following a gluten-free diet.

Why Label Reading is Essential

While the current products are labeled as safe, it's always best practice to perform your own quick check before purchasing. It's important for consumers to stay vigilant, as manufacturers can change ingredients or processes over time. Here's what to look for when you're at the grocery store:

  • The 'Gluten-Free' Statement: Look for clear wording on the front or back of the carton. In the US, this means the product contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten, meeting the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standard for a gluten-free claim.
  • The Allergen-Free Statement: The Great Value products in question also carry broader 'Allergen-Free' statements that often include gluten, wheat, and other common allergens.
  • Ingredients List: Review the full list to ensure no hidden gluten-containing ingredients are present. While unlikely in a product explicitly labeled gluten-free, it's a good habit. Common culprits in broths that are not explicitly labeled gluten-free can include yeast extract derived from barley or modified food starch from wheat. The ingredients for the organic version are typically minimal and clearly listed.
  • Certified Gluten-Free Logo: Some brands go a step further by seeking third-party certification and displaying a logo from organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). While Great Value currently relies on its own testing to meet FDA standards, seeking out these logos on other products can provide an extra layer of assurance.

Great Value vs. Organic Great Value: A Comparison

It's important to understand that while both the standard and organic versions are labeled gluten-free, their specific formulations differ slightly. The organic version, for example, is made with organic vegetables and is often preferred by those who want to avoid synthetic ingredients. The standard version is a budget-friendly and readily available alternative that still meets gluten-free standards.

Feature Great Value Vegetable Broth Great Value Organic Vegetable Broth
Source Standard vegetables and flavorings. USDA-certified organic vegetables.
Ingredients Vegetable broth (water, concentrated vegetable juices), yeast extract, salt, sugar, potato flour, disodium inosinate, disodium guanylate, citric acid, natural flavoring. Water, organic vegetable broth concentrate, organic cane sugar, sea salt, organic yeast extract.
Allergen Statements Labeled Gluten-Free, Wheat-Free, Peanut-Free, Tree Nut-Free, Soy-Free. Labeled Gluten-Free.
Price Point Generally more affordable. Slightly higher price point due to organic ingredients.
Consumer Preference For those focused purely on a safe, budget-friendly gluten-free option. For consumers prioritizing organic ingredients in addition to being gluten-free.

What About Yeast Extract?

One ingredient that often causes confusion for people on a gluten-free diet is yeast extract. While it can sometimes be derived from gluten-containing grains like barley, manufacturers of certified gluten-free products must ensure that any yeast extract they use is sourced from a gluten-free material, such as beet sugar or corn. Since both Great Value broths are labeled gluten-free, their yeast extract is safe for celiac patients and those with gluten sensitivities. For more detailed information on specific ingredients, the Gluten Intolerance Group offers excellent resources on hidden gluten.

Homemade Broth as an Alternative

For some, the ultimate control comes from making homemade vegetable broth. This method guarantees no cross-contamination and allows you to select every single ingredient. A simple recipe involves simmering chopped carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and herbs in water for an hour or more, then straining. However, for many, the convenience of a ready-made, affordable, and explicitly labeled gluten-free product like Great Value's offers a significant advantage, especially when time is limited. Many cooks utilize homemade broth as a base for soups and stews, while reserving the store-bought cartons for quick recipes or when a flavorful boost is needed on short notice.

Conclusion

In summary, both the standard and organic varieties of Great Value vegetable broth from Walmart are safe for a gluten-free diet. The products are clearly labeled as such, and a quick check of the carton confirms their safety and suitability for those avoiding gluten. While cross-contamination is a valid concern for many products, the explicit gluten-free labeling on these broths means consumers can use them confidently in their cooking. Always make it a habit to check the packaging for the most current information, and remember that both a reliable store-bought option and a homemade alternative are readily available for your culinary adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, both the Great Value Organic and standard vegetable broths are explicitly labeled as gluten-free by Walmart. The product packaging carries this clear statement, indicating it meets FDA requirements for gluten-free products.

Yes, the product is generally considered safe for individuals with celiac disease. The explicit gluten-free labeling means the broth has been tested to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, the standard for safety.

No. Because the product is labeled gluten-free, any yeast extract used must be derived from non-gluten sources, such as sugar beets or corn, to meet safety standards.

Both the organic and regular varieties are gluten-free. The primary difference lies in their ingredient sourcing, with the organic version made from USDA-certified organic vegetables and containing fewer ingredients overall.

No. While the base ingredients are usually vegetables, some commercial brands may add flavorings, thickeners, or other additives that contain gluten. It is always necessary to check the label for a clear gluten-free claim.

Yes. While Great Value is a reliable option, other brands such as Pacific Foods also offer explicitly labeled gluten-free vegetable broth products that you can find at Walmart.

The gluten-free claim is typically featured prominently on the front of the product carton or within the allergen-free statements found on the back or side panel.

It is important because some broths, especially powdered versions or those used as a base in other products, can contain hidden gluten from sources like malt or wheat flour. Explicit labeling removes this uncertainty.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.