Is Red's gluten-free? A complete guide to their product lines

While not all products from Red's All Natural are gluten-free, the company does clearly label specific offerings, such as certain Egg'Wiches and burritos, to meet strict FDA standards. Consumers must always check the individual product packaging to verify if it is suitable for a gluten-free diet and prevent accidental cross-contact.

Quick Summary

Not all Red's frozen food products are gluten-free, but specific options like their Egg'Wich sandwiches and certain burritos are clearly marked. Always check individual packaging to confirm suitability for a gluten-free diet.

Key Points

• Not all products are gluten-free: Red's All Natural makes both gluten-free and gluten-containing items, so checking the label is essential.

• Look for the 'Gluten Free' label: The company clearly marks its gluten-free products on the packaging.

• Egg'Wich is a reliable option: The breakfast sandwiches that use egg patties instead of bread are specifically formulated to be gluten-free.

• Specific burritos are GF: Red's produces certain burritos that use alternative flour tortillas, and these are clearly labeled as gluten-free.

• Avoid items with standard tortillas/bread: Many of Red's burritos and croissant sandwiches contain wheat and are not safe for a gluten-free diet.

• FDA standards are followed: Red's adheres to the FDA's definition of 'gluten-free' and follows allergen cross-contact guidelines for these products.

• Nut-free facility: The Red's factory is a nut-free facility, which is a benefit for those with nut allergies.

For many years, the frozen food aisle has expanded to include a variety of options catering to diverse dietary needs, including gluten-free. Red's All Natural, a popular brand known for its frozen burritos and breakfast sandwiches, has adapted to this trend by offering a selection of gluten-free products alongside its standard offerings. However, this means the brand is not universally gluten-free, and it is crucial for consumers to understand the distinction between the two product lines.

The Gluten-Free Red's Product Line

For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, Red's has developed specific product lines that exclude gluten-containing ingredients. The company adheres to the FDA's strict definition of 'gluten-free,' meaning the final product contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.

Red's Egg'Wich Breakfast Sandwiches

One of the most notable gluten-free innovations from Red's is their Egg'Wich. These breakfast sandwiches replace traditional bread buns with fluffy cage-free egg patties, making them both gluten-free and keto-friendly. They are available in flavors such as Turkey Sausage or Chicken Maple Sausage and offer a convenient, high-protein breakfast option. The distinct use of egg patties makes them easy to identify as a gluten-free alternative.

Red's Gluten-Free Burritos

In addition to the Egg'Wiches, Red's also produces burritos that are explicitly labeled as gluten-free. These items feature a special tortilla blend made from sweet rice, cassava, and brown rice flour, among other ingredients, to create a safe wrapper. Examples of these gluten-free burritos include:

• Chicken Cilantro & Lime
• Bean, Rice and Cheddar
• Egg & Three Cheese Turkey Sausage

These burritos are designed for those with gluten sensitivities who still want to enjoy a quick, flavorful meal. The labeling on the packaging clearly states "Gluten Free" to prevent any confusion.

What to Avoid: Red's Products Containing Gluten

It is just as important to know which products to avoid. The majority of Red's burritos and breakfast items utilize a traditional wheat flour tortilla or bread, and therefore contain gluten. If the packaging does not explicitly state “Gluten Free,” it is best to assume the product contains wheat and is not safe for a gluten-free diet. Examples of products containing wheat include:

• Standard Burritos: Many flavors, such as the Steak & Cheddar and Cheesy Beef & Bean, use standard wheat tortillas.
• Croissant Breakfast Sandwiches: The Turkey Sausage Croissant, for instance, is made with enriched wheat flour and is not gluten-free.

How to Confirm if a Red's Product is Gluten-Free

Your primary method of verification should always be the product's packaging. Look for clear labeling on the front of the box or wrapper that says "Gluten Free." Red's takes steps to ensure transparency, but a quick visual check is the most reliable way to ensure you're picking up the right item. You can find more detailed ingredient information on the company's official website.

Comparison of Red's Gluten-Free vs. Standard Products

Feature	Gluten-Free Egg'Wich	Standard Steak & Cheddar Burrito
Primary Wrapper/Base	Fluffy cage-free egg patties	Wheat Flour Tortilla
Gluten Status	Gluten-Free	Contains Gluten
Key Allergen	Egg, Milk	Milk, Wheat
Dietary Suitability	Keto-friendly, Gluten-free	Contains wheat, not suitable for gluten-free diets

Cross-Contamination Precautions

Red's has taken measures to address allergen cross-contact in its manufacturing process. The company manufactures its products in its own factory in South Dakota, which is a nut-free facility. For its gluten-free items, Red's states it follows strict protocols to minimize the risk of cross-contamination, ensuring that the products meet the FDA's gluten-free standard. However, individuals with severe Celiac disease may still wish to exercise caution and consult their doctor. If you have questions about a specific item or process, the company's website is a good resource for further details.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to the question, "Is Red's gluten-free?" is that it depends entirely on the specific product. Red's is not an exclusively gluten-free brand, but it does offer a variety of clearly labeled, high-quality gluten-free options for consumers, such as the Egg'Wich breakfast sandwiches and certain burritos. To ensure your safety and adherence to a gluten-free diet, always read the product packaging carefully before purchasing. By doing so, you can confidently enjoy the delicious, convenient frozen meals that Red's All Natural has to offer.

For more information on ingredients and nutritional facts, visit the official Red's All Natural website at www.redsallnatural.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all Red's All Natural products gluten-free?

No, Red's offers a mix of gluten-free and gluten-containing products. You must check the label of each individual item to confirm if it is a gluten-free option.

Which of Red's breakfast items are gluten-free?

Red's Egg'Wich breakfast sandwiches, which use egg patties instead of bread buns, are gluten-free. Other breakfast items like their croissant sandwiches contain wheat and are not gluten-free.

How can I be sure a Red's burrito is gluten-free?

You must select a burrito explicitly labeled 'Gluten Free.' These are made with an alternative flour blend, unlike the standard burritos which use wheat tortillas.

Does Red's follow cross-contamination prevention for gluten-free products?

Yes, according to the company's FAQ, it adheres to the FDA's strict guidelines for allergen cross-contact prevention to control contamination incidents for its gluten-free products.

Are there any Red's products that contain peanuts or tree nuts?

No, Red's All Natural states that none of their burritos or breakfast sandwiches contain peanuts or tree nuts and that their factory is a nut-free facility.

Can someone with Celiac disease safely eat Red's gluten-free products?

Individuals with Celiac disease should rely on products explicitly labeled 'Gluten-Free.' While the company follows cross-contamination protocols, people with high sensitivity should still exercise caution.

Where can I find the full ingredients list for Red's products?

The full ingredients list is available on each product's packaging. You can also find detailed product information on the Red's All Natural website.

What is the primary difference between a gluten-free Red's burrito and a standard one?

The key difference is the tortilla. Gluten-free burritos use a special blend of alternative flours, while standard burritos use traditional wheat flour tortillas.