McCormick Simply Better Gravy and Its Gluten-Free Promise
For consumers with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or a dietary preference to avoid gluten, finding safe, pre-made products is a significant challenge. Gravy, in particular, often contains wheat flour as a thickener, making many commercial varieties unsuitable. McCormick recognized this need and launched its Simply Better Gravy line, specifically catering to this market with a gluten-free formulation. The company's commitment to clear labeling and safe manufacturing processes provides peace of mind for many shoppers.
The Formulation: What Makes It Gluten-Free?
Instead of traditional wheat flour, McCormick's Simply Better Gravy relies on alternative thickening agents to achieve its smooth consistency. A review of product ingredient lists reveals that these gravies use modified corn starch, potato starch, and rice flour. By substituting these gluten-free starches, the product can deliver the desired texture without compromising dietary safety. Furthermore, McCormick is transparent about its labeling, explicitly stating "no gluten" on the packaging of these specific gravy varieties. The company's general allergen policy states that if a product contains gluten, it will be clearly listed in the ingredient statement, and if an ingredient is derived from a wheat source, it will be specified as such. This practice is a gold standard for consumer trust in the gluten-free food space.
Flavor Varieties and Availability
The Simply Better Gravy line offers several flavors, all of which are formulated to be gluten-free. This includes the popular chicken, turkey, and beef gravies, ensuring that no matter the meal, a safe and flavorful option is available. These products are widely available at major grocery retailers, both in-store and online through platforms like Amazon and Instacart.
Common Simply Better Gravy Flavors:
- Chicken Gravy
- Turkey Gravy
- Beef Gravy
Comparison: Simply Better Gravy vs. Traditional Gravy Mixes
To highlight the key differences, here is a comparison table outlining the features of McCormick Simply Better Gravy and more traditional gravy mixes, which are often not gluten-free.
| Feature | McCormick Simply Better Gravy | Traditional Gravy Mix (Non-GF) |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Status | Yes, explicitly labeled. | No, typically contains wheat flour. |
| Thickening Agent | Modified Corn Starch, Potato Starch, Rice Flour. | Wheat Flour or modified wheat starch. |
| Preparation | Ready-to-serve (heat and eat). | Powdered mix (add water, cook). |
| Added MSG | No added MSG. | May contain MSG or other flavor enhancers. |
| Artificial Flavors | No artificial flavors. | May contain artificial flavors. |
| Convenience | Highly convenient, pour-and-heat format. | Requires mixing and whisking, less instant. |
Potential for Cross-Contamination
While the Simply Better Gravy line is formulated without gluten, individuals with severe celiac disease or highly sensitive allergies may still be concerned about cross-contamination. McCormick states that they follow good manufacturing practices to minimize cross-contact and ensure correct labeling. While the company produces other products that contain gluten, the strict procedures are designed to protect the integrity of its gluten-free items. For the most sensitive individuals, reading the ingredient label at the time of purchase is always the best practice to verify there have been no changes to the formula.
Making the Right Choice for Your Dietary Needs
Ultimately, the decision to use a product depends on your specific dietary needs and comfort level. The availability of a ready-to-serve, gluten-free option like McCormick Simply Better Gravy is a significant convenience for those with gluten sensitivities. The company's clear labeling and use of verified gluten-free ingredients are strong indicators of its commitment to producing a safe product. However, a very small percentage of users have reported issues, such as a different taste, but none related to gluten cross-contamination in the certified products. For the majority of gluten-free consumers, this product provides a reliable and easy-to-use solution for adding delicious gravy to meals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, McCormick Simply Better Gravy is officially gluten-free, with its labeling and ingredients confirming its suitability for individuals with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities. The product achieves its thick, rich texture using starches like modified corn starch, potato starch, and rice flour, avoiding traditional wheat-based thickeners. By offering multiple flavors without gluten, added MSG, or artificial flavors, McCormick provides a convenient and safe option for enhancing a wide variety of meals, from holiday feasts to everyday dinners. Always perform a final check on the packaging for the most current information to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.
McCormick's official allergens page confirms their clear labeling policy and manufacturing practices to minimize cross-contact.
Key Takeaways
- Is McCormick Simply Better Gravy gluten-free?: Yes, the McCormick Simply Better Gravy line is explicitly labeled and formulated as gluten-free.
- Ingredient Confirmation: The product avoids wheat-based thickeners, instead using alternative starches such as corn, potato, and rice flour.
- Clear Labeling: The packaging for Simply Better Gravy clearly states "no gluten" and the company has a strong policy of labeling any allergens, including wheat-derived ingredients.
- Flavor Variety: The gluten-free formula is available across different flavors, including chicken, turkey, and beef.
- Manufacturing Practices: McCormick follows strict procedures to minimize the risk of cross-contamination in their facilities, though packaging inspection is always recommended for those with severe sensitivities.
- Convenience: As a ready-to-serve product, it offers a quick and easy-to-use option for adding flavor to meals without extensive preparation.
FAQs
Question: How does McCormick ensure its Simply Better Gravy is gluten-free? Answer: McCormick formulates the Simply Better Gravy line using gluten-free starches like modified corn starch, potato starch, and rice flour instead of wheat flour. They also adhere to strict manufacturing and labeling practices to prevent cross-contamination and provide clear information on the package.
Question: Are all McCormick gravies gluten-free? Answer: No, not all McCormick gravies are gluten-free. While the Simply Better Gravy line is, other products like the dry Country Gravy Mix often contain wheat. It is crucial to check the packaging and look for the specific "gluten-free" labeling on the Simply Better variety.
Question: Can I use McCormick Simply Better Gravy for someone with celiac disease? Answer: Yes, the Simply Better Gravy varieties are generally safe for individuals with celiac disease. They are formulated without gluten, and McCormick has manufacturing protocols in place to minimize cross-contamination. However, those with extreme sensitivities should always double-check the label for the most up-to-date information before consumption.
Question: Does Simply Better Gravy have a different taste than traditional gravy? Answer: The flavor profile of Simply Better Gravy is designed to be rich and traditional, crafted from real ingredients and spices. While a few individuals might notice a difference, the taste is widely praised and is a reliable choice for achieving a classic gravy flavor.
Question: What ingredients are used to thicken Simply Better Gravy? Answer: Instead of wheat flour, the gravy is thickened using a combination of modified corn starch, potato starch, and rice flour. This blend creates a smooth, consistent texture that is suitable for gluten-free diets.
Question: Where can I buy McCormick Simply Better Gravy? Answer: The product is available at most major grocery stores and online retailers. You can find it at places like Publix, H-E-B, Walmart, and Amazon.
Question: Are the Simply Better Gravy varieties also free of artificial flavors? Answer: Yes, in addition to being gluten-free, McCormick Simply Better Gravy contains no artificial flavors and no added MSG, aligning with a commitment to simpler, real ingredients.
