For individuals with celiac disease or a serious gluten sensitivity, the phrase “gluten-free” on a food product is a promise of safety. Schär has long been a trusted name in the gluten-free market, but consumers often question the legitimacy of this claim. The assurance that Schär provides extends beyond a simple label; it is a multi-layered system of stringent quality control, dedicated production, and third-party validation that guarantees the gluten-free status of its entire product range.
The Schär Commitment to Purity
Schär's long-standing reputation is built on a comprehensive and meticulous approach to eliminating gluten. Their process starts with the raw ingredients and carries through every stage of production and packaging. For a company to be a leader in the gluten-free space for over 35 years, as Schär has, requires constant dedication to the highest standards.
- Strict Ingredient Sourcing: All raw materials are subjected to rigorous controls in Schär's in-house quality laboratories before they are even released for production. Only naturally gluten-free ingredients are used, and each one must pass strict checks to ensure it contains less than 20 ppm (parts per million) of gluten.
- Dedicated Production Facilities: A cornerstone of Schär's guarantee is the use of dedicated, specialized manufacturing facilities. These are exclusively used for producing gluten-free foods, effectively eliminating the risk of cross-contamination from shared equipment, which is a major concern for many consumers. For example, the Swedesboro, New Jersey, plant is also free from top allergens like eggs, dairy, soy, and wheat.
- Multi-Stage Testing: Schär employs a robust testing system throughout the manufacturing process. This includes blocking all raw materials upon arrival and testing finished product batches for gluten content. They primarily use the highly sensitive ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) method to detect even minute traces of gluten.
- Exceeding the Standard: While many global regulations require a product to contain less than 20 ppm to be labeled gluten-free, Schär goes a step further. They are committed to bringing gluten content as low as possible and, in many cases, achieve levels well below 5 ppm.
What About the Use of Wheat Starch?
One common area of confusion for new gluten-free dieters is the use of codex wheat starch in some products. It might seem counterintuitive to see "wheat" on an ingredient list for a gluten-free product. Schär's use of this ingredient, however, is a carefully controlled and safe practice.
- Special Processing: The wheat starch used is specially processed to remove the gluten protein. This is a common practice in the industry and is legally permitted under both EU and FDA regulations for gluten-free products, provided the final product tests below the 20 ppm threshold.
- Additional Testing: Schär applies an additional testing stage specifically to all wheat starch entering their facilities. This ensures that it meets their internal standards, and their records show that 90% of their wheat starch contains less than 5 ppm of gluten. This rigorous procedure ensures that the resulting foods are safe for individuals with celiac disease.
Comparison of Gluten-Free Standards
Schär's rigorous approach can be compared to official regulations and other third-party certifications, highlighting their commitment to safety.
| Feature | FDA/EU Standard | GFCO Certification | Celiac Support Association (CSA) | Schär Standards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Gluten (PPM) | <20 ppm | <10 ppm, with final product testing | <5 ppm and requires no oats | <5 ppm in most cases, guaranteed <20 ppm |
| Testing Procedures | Final product testing | Risk assessment, plant audits, equipment, product testing | Strict testing and audit protocols | Raw material testing, multi-stage in-house testing, final product testing |
| Dedicated Facilities | Not required | High standard, frequent audits | Yes | Yes, exclusively gluten-free |
| Certification Mark | Not required | GFCO Certification Mark | CSA Mark | Crossed Grain Symbol (AOECS trademark in Europe) |
The Importance of Third-Party Certification
Schär products proudly display the Crossed Grain symbol, a certification recognized and trusted by celiac organizations globally, including in Europe and by Coeliac UK. This provides an independent, verified stamp of approval for their safety claims. The presence of this mark confirms that Schär's facilities and products have been audited and tested by a third party to meet the highest safety standards. This offers an extra layer of reassurance to consumers, especially as some manufacturers might not perform their own testing or produce on shared equipment. Consumer surveys show that such certifications significantly increase trust and brand loyalty.
Conclusion: A Reliable Choice for a Gluten-Free Diet
In conclusion, the question of whether is Schär actually gluten-free? can be answered with a resounding yes. The company's commitment to safety is comprehensive, spanning from the careful selection of raw, naturally gluten-free ingredients to the rigorous testing and use of dedicated, specialized production facilities. These internal standards are further validated by internationally recognized third-party certifications, like the Crossed Grain symbol, which reinforces consumer trust. For those managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, Schär provides a reliable, safe, and delicious range of products, allowing them to enjoy their meals with confidence.
