Understanding the 'Gluten-Free' Wheat Starch
King Arthur Gluten-Free Pizza Flour's primary ingredient is a gluten-free wheat starch. This starch is processed through extensive washing to separate and remove the gluten protein, adhering to 'gluten-free' standards.
How is 'Gluten-Free' Wheat Starch Tested?
To meet legal requirements, the flour is tested for less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, the FDA standard. King Arthur often aims for less than 10 ppm and uses tests like the R5 ELISA to verify safety.
Celiac Disease vs. Wheat Allergy
The processed wheat starch is generally safe for those with celiac disease because the gluten protein is removed. However, it is not safe for individuals with a wheat allergy, as their immune system reacts to other wheat proteins. A person with a wheat allergy should avoid this product.
Why Some Celiacs Still React
Despite testing, some celiacs may react due to extreme sensitivity to trace gluten, intolerance to other ingredients, or cross-contact at home.
King Arthur Baking's Allergen Program and Manufacturing
King Arthur makes certified gluten-free products on equipment shared with top allergens, including wheat, milk, soy, eggs, and almonds. They use strict cleaning and testing, including testing lines for trace gluten after production, to prevent cross-contamination. This transparency helps consumers with other allergies make informed choices, while the gluten testing is key for celiacs.
A Comparison: King Arthur Gluten-Free Flours
| Feature | King Arthur Gluten-Free Pizza Flour | King Arthur Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour | King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Gluten-free wheat starch, sorghum flour | Rice flour, tapioca starch | Rice flour, tapioca starch, brown rice flour |
| Contains Wheat Starch | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | Neapolitan-style pizza, yeasted recipes | Versatile scratch baking (muffins, cakes) | 1:1 substitution in standard recipes |
| Wheat Allergy Safe | No | Yes | Yes |
| Celiac Safe | Yes, for most; contains less than 20 ppm gluten | Yes, is certified gluten-free | Yes, is certified gluten-free |
| Xanthan Gum | Included | Not included, must be added separately | Included |
Making an Informed Decision
The decision to use this flour is personal, based on individual sensitivity. For celiacs without a wheat allergy, it is manufactured to FDA standards and independently tested. Those with extreme sensitivity or who prefer to avoid wheat derivatives can choose other King Arthur gluten-free flours that do not contain wheat starch. Understanding ingredients and manufacturing is crucial for making the best health choice.
Conclusion
King Arthur's gluten-free pizza flour is generally safe for most celiacs due to gluten removal and testing below 20 ppm. However, it is unsafe for those with a wheat allergy due to the presence of wheat starch. Consumers should check labels and consider personal sensitivity. The product meets FDA and GFCO standards. For those highly sensitive or unsure, wheat-free, gluten-free alternatives are safer. Visit the King Arthur Baking website for more on their allergen program.
