Yes, Siete Taco Seasoning is Certified Gluten-Free
For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, finding safe and flavorful seasoning mixes can be challenging. Many conventional taco seasonings use fillers or anti-caking agents that contain gluten, or are manufactured in facilities with a high risk of cross-contamination. Siete Family Foods has addressed this concern directly by ensuring their taco seasonings are certified gluten-free. This certification, overseen by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), means the product is independently verified to meet the strictest gluten-free standards.
Siete’s commitment to providing allergen-friendly products stems from a personal journey within their own family, making their mission to create and share real, safe food a core part of their business. Their mild and spicy taco seasonings are not only gluten-free but also grain-free, paleo, vegan, and Whole30 approved, catering to a wide range of dietary needs.
A Look at Siete's Clean Ingredient List
Unlike many conventional brands that use unnecessary additives, Siete's ingredient list is straightforward and free from potential gluten-containing culprits. For example, their mild taco seasoning includes:
- Chile powder: A robust, foundational spice.
- Sea salt: For flavor balance.
- Ground dates: Used as a natural sweetener, replacing refined sugar.
- Tomato powder: Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: A common staple in taco seasoning.
- Nutritional yeast: Provides a savory, cheesy flavor profile.
- Cumin: Essential for authentic taco flavor.
- Onion flakes: Adds savory onion flavor.
- Cassava flour: A grain-free thickener and anti-caking agent.
- Cream of tartar: Used for stabilization.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
- Parsley: A final, herbaceous touch.
The spicy version of the seasoning includes jalapeno powder for an added kick. The use of cassava flour as a thickener is particularly important, as many brands use wheat-based thickeners, which would not be gluten-free.
The Importance of GFCO Certification
For individuals with celiac disease, a simple 'gluten-free' label is often not enough. GFCO certification is a crucial layer of assurance, as it involves rigorous standards and independent testing to ensure the product contains less than 10 ppm (parts per million) of gluten, significantly stricter than the FDA's threshold of 20 ppm. Siete's certification means their manufacturing process and facilities have been audited to minimize cross-contamination risk, though it's important to be mindful of how you handle seasonings in your own kitchen.
Comparison of Siete and Conventional Taco Seasonings
To understand Siete's value proposition, it helps to compare it directly with a common conventional alternative.
| Feature | Siete Taco Seasoning | Conventional Taco Seasoning (Example: A typical major brand) |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Certified Gluten-Free (GFCO) | Often not certified; may contain gluten-based fillers |
| Ingredients | Whole foods, spices, cassava flour as thickener | May contain maltodextrin (often wheat-based), modified food starch, or other undisclosed gluten sources |
| Allergen-Friendly | Grain-free, dairy-free, vegan, paleo | Often contains dairy or anti-caking agents not compliant with paleo/vegan diets |
| Additives | Preservative-free, no anti-caking agents | May contain MSG, sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives |
| Flavor Profile | Clean, hearty spices with natural ingredients | Reliant on processed ingredients for flavor, which can be less nuanced |
| Cost | Generally higher priced due to ingredient quality and sourcing | Lower priced, often due to cheaper ingredients and fillers |
Avoiding Cross-Contamination at Home
Even with certified gluten-free products, cross-contamination is a real risk in a mixed-diet household. Follow these tips to ensure a safe, gluten-free taco night:
- Dedicated Utensils: Use separate serving spoons, spatulas, and mixing bowls for gluten-free foods.
- Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly wash countertops, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces with soap and water before preparing gluten-free meals.
- Separate Storage: Store gluten-free products, like Siete seasoning, away from gluten-containing products to prevent accidental spills.
- Mindful Grilling: If using a grill, clean the grates thoroughly or use a dedicated grill pan for gluten-free items to avoid cross-contact with other foods cooked previously.
- Read Labels Every Time: While Siete is reliable, it is always a good practice to read the ingredients list on any product before use, as formulations can change.
Is Siete Taco Seasoning Suitable for Other Diets?
Yes, beyond being gluten-free, Siete's taco seasoning is suitable for several other dietary protocols, thanks to its clean ingredient list.
For Paleo Diets: The seasoning is free of grains, legumes, and dairy, adhering to paleo principles.
For Vegan Diets: The ingredients are entirely plant-based, using nutritional yeast for a savory flavor rather than cheese or other animal products.
For Whole30: The product is Whole30 approved, meaning it contains no sugar, grains, dairy, or additives and fits within the program's guidelines.
Conclusion: Siete is a safe choice for gluten-free tacos
Siete brand taco seasoning is a safe, reliable, and delicious option for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Its GFCO certification, coupled with a clean ingredient list free from common gluten-containing fillers and additives, provides a high level of confidence for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. By choosing Siete, you can ensure a flavorful taco night without worrying about your seasoning. Always remember to practice good kitchen hygiene to avoid cross-contamination when preparing meals, and enjoy your meal with Siete's other gluten-free products, like their grain-free tortillas and chips.
