Understanding Progresso's Gluten-Free Labeling
Progresso, a brand of General Mills, produces a wide variety of canned soups, some of which are formulated and labeled as gluten-free. However, not all their products are, and this includes different variations of their potato soup. The key is to look for the explicit 'Gluten Free' claim on the product packaging, as ingredient lists can sometimes be misleading to the untrained eye. The company has a partnership with the Celiac Disease Foundation and is committed to expanding its gluten-free offerings, but this does not mean all its products are safe.
The Gluten-Free Cream of Potato with Bacon & Cheese
One of the most popular options, the Progresso Light Creamy Potato with Bacon & Cheese soup, is prominently labeled as gluten-free on the can and on the official website. This product is specifically formulated without gluten-containing ingredients, making it a safe choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The ingredients for this particular variety include water, potatoes, celery, bacon, and cheese, among others, with no added wheat flour.
The Gluten-Containing Loaded Potato with Bacon
In contrast, the Progresso Rich & Hearty Loaded Potato with Bacon and Cheese soup is not gluten-free and contains wheat flour as a thickener. This is a crucial distinction, as the 'Rich & Hearty' label signals a different formulation. The ingredient list for this product explicitly lists "WHEAT FLOUR BLEACHED," which is a clear and immediate red flag for anyone following a strict gluten-free diet. The presence of wheat flour means this variety is not safe for celiacs and should be avoided.
Reading Ingredient Labels for Clarity
When navigating the soup aisle, it's not enough to assume that all similar products from a single brand are safe. Manufacturers can use different formulations for different product lines, and Progresso is a prime example. The best practice is to always read the ingredient list and look for explicit certification. The Celiac Disease Foundation recommends looking for 'Gluten Free' certification to ensure a product contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, the threshold considered safe for celiac patients.
Ingredients to Watch For
Beyond just 'wheat flour,' other ingredients can contain hidden gluten. Modified food starch, unless specified as being from a gluten-free source (like corn), can sometimes be a concern, but typically in the U.S., if it's derived from wheat, it must be labeled as such. Other common sources include maltodextrin and certain natural flavorings, though again, if they contain wheat, they must be disclosed. It is always safest to rely on the official 'Gluten Free' label.
Navigating the Progresso Soup Aisle
To make an informed decision, shoppers can follow a simple process:
- Look for the label first: Prioritize cans with the prominent 'Gluten Free' label on the front. Progresso uses clear labeling to distinguish these products.
- Read the full ingredient list: Always check the ingredient list, especially the allergen statement, for any mention of wheat or other gluten-containing grains. For instance, the Rich & Hearty Loaded Potato soup explicitly lists wheat flour.
- Don't assume: Never assume that just because one variety is gluten-free, another with a similar name is too. As shown, the 'Light' and 'Rich & Hearty' versions of potato soup have different formulations.
- Check online resources: If unsure, consult the official Progresso website or reputable sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation website, which often provide up-to-date lists of safe products.
Comparison of Progresso Potato Soups
| Feature | Progresso Light Creamy Potato with Bacon & Cheese | Progresso Rich & Hearty Loaded Potato with Bacon & Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Explicitly Labeled Gluten-Free | Contains Wheat Flour, Not Gluten-Free |
| Thickener | Modified Food Starch (assumed GF) | Wheat Flour Bleached |
| Primary Ingredients | Potatoes, vegetables, bacon, cheese | Potatoes, celery, onion, bacon, cream cheese |
| Suitable for Celiacs? | Yes | No |
| Labeling | Clearly marked with 'Gluten Free' | Not marked as gluten-free |
Gluten-Free Alternatives to Progresso
For those who find they cannot safely consume the gluten-containing versions of Progresso potato soup, or prefer to avoid processed foods, several alternatives exist.
Homemade Options
Making your own cream of potato soup from scratch offers complete control over the ingredients. There are many recipes available online that use gluten-free thickeners. For instance, you can use a cornstarch slurry, rice flour, or even pureed potatoes themselves to achieve a creamy texture.
Other Brands
Many brands now offer certified gluten-free soups. Checking the dedicated 'free-from' aisle of your local grocery store can reveal several options. Some brands specialize in allergen-free products, ensuring all their soups are safe. Always check the labels to be sure.
Cooking Tips for Homemade Soup
To ensure your homemade potato soup is creamy and delicious, consider a few tips:
- Use an immersion blender: For a silky-smooth texture, an immersion blender is a great tool for pureeing the cooked potato mixture.
- Thicken with potatoes: For a naturally creamy and gluten-free soup, simply puree a portion of the cooked potatoes with some broth before adding it back to the main pot.
- Enhance with flavor: Use rich, homemade broth or high-quality vegetable broth, and consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives to elevate the flavor.
Conclusion: Read Labels, Trust Certified Gluten-Free
The question of whether Progresso cream of potato soup is gluten-free has a nuanced answer. While the Progresso Light Creamy Potato with Bacon & Cheese is a verified gluten-free option, the Rich & Hearty Loaded Potato with Bacon variety contains wheat flour and is not suitable for a gluten-free diet. The main takeaway is the critical importance of reading product labels and not making assumptions based on a brand or product line. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, always look for the explicit 'Gluten Free' label to ensure the product is safe. When in doubt, a homemade version is always the safest bet.
