Nutrition Diet: Are Great Value peas and carrots gluten-free?

October 29, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the FDA, products labeled 'gluten-free' must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it's crucial to confirm this status for every product, including Great Value peas and carrots, which are frequently used in many recipes.

Quick Summary

Frozen Great Value peas and carrots are labeled gluten-free, but caution is vital for other processed Great Value items. Careful label reading and awareness of potential cross-contamination are critical for a safe diet.

Key Points

Check for Explicit Labeling: The standard frozen Great Value peas and carrots are labeled 'gluten-free' on the package, providing confirmation of their status.
Not All Great Value Products Are Gluten-Free: The 'gluten-free' status only applies to specific items. The entire Great Value brand is not a certified gluten-free brand, and caution is needed for other products.
Plain Vegetables are Inherently Safe: Fresh or plain frozen peas and carrots are naturally gluten-free foods. The risk primarily comes from processing and potential cross-contamination.
Inspect All Ingredients and Warnings: For any processed or flavored vegetable mixes, always read the full ingredients list and check for 'may contain' warnings to ensure no hidden gluten is present.
Rely on the FDA Standard: Products labeled 'gluten-free' in the U.S. must meet the FDA's criteria of less than 20 ppm of gluten, a reliable safety threshold for most individuals.
Prioritize Whole Foods: Whenever possible, opting for fresh, unprocessed vegetables is the most direct way to avoid any risk of gluten contamination.

The Foundation of a Gluten-Free Diet: Understanding the Rules

For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, navigating the grocery store can be a complex task. The fundamental rule is to avoid all products containing wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. While many whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are naturally gluten-free, the potential for cross-contamination during manufacturing is a significant concern. This is especially true for packaged goods like frozen or canned vegetables, where processing equipment might also be used for gluten-containing items. The FDA mandates that any product carrying a 'gluten-free' label must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, a standard recognized as safe for most people with celiac disease.

Are Great Value Peas and Carrots Gluten-Free?

Yes, according to both online listings and product packaging, the standard frozen Great Value peas and carrots are labeled as gluten-free. As they consist solely of plain, unprocessed vegetables, they are inherently gluten-free. The labeling indicates that Walmart, the parent company of the Great Value brand, takes measures to ensure these particular products meet the FDA's strict standards. This is consistent with Walmart's broader initiative to offer a certified gluten-free product line, which was recognized by the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (Beyond Celiac) in 2014. However, it is essential to remember that this status is specific to the plain frozen peas and carrots. Other Great Value products, particularly seasoned vegetable mixes or those with sauces, should always be checked individually, as the entire Great Value brand is not universally gluten-free.

How to Verify Gluten-Free Status

For those needing to be vigilant, here is a simple process to follow for any product you purchase:

Look for a 'Gluten-Free' Claim: The most straightforward method is to look for the explicit 'gluten-free' claim on the packaging. This is a reliable indicator that the product meets the FDA's standard.
Check the Ingredients List: Always scan the ingredients list for obvious gluten-containing grains such as wheat, barley, rye, and spelt. Be mindful of derivatives like malt, brewer's yeast, or wheat starch, unless explicitly stated as gluten-removed.
Scrutinize Allergen Statements: Many labels include a 'Contains:' section for common allergens. While wheat is a top allergen, barley and rye are not always required to be listed here, so checking the ingredients is still vital.
Beware of 'May Contain' Warnings: Phrases like 'may contain traces of gluten' or 'made in a facility that also processes wheat' indicate a risk of cross-contamination. For individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity, these products should be avoided.

The Importance of a Balanced Diet

Incorporating naturally gluten-free foods like peas and carrots is a cornerstone of a healthy and balanced diet for everyone, including those managing gluten restrictions. Peas and carrots offer a powerful combination of nutrients:

Peas: A great source of dietary fiber, protein, and vitamins A, C, and K. They contribute to digestive health and help provide a feeling of fullness.
Carrots: Rich in vitamin A, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for vision and skin health. Together, these two vegetables create a nutritious and versatile addition to soups, stews, casseroles, and side dishes.

Comparison of Vegetable Product Types

To illustrate the importance of reading labels, here is a comparison of different types of vegetable products you might find at the grocery store.


Product Type	Example	Gluten-Free Status	Potential for Cross-Contamination	Notes
Plain Frozen Vegetables	Great Value Frozen Peas & Carrots	Labeled gluten-free	Low risk, but not zero. Labeling is key.	A safe and convenient option if labeled correctly.
Seasoned Frozen Vegetables	Great Value Roasted Potatoes & Carrots	Requires careful label reading	Higher risk due to seasonings and coatings.	Always check ingredients, as seasoning blends can contain hidden gluten.
Canned Vegetables	Great Value Canned Peas & Carrots	Often labeled gluten-free	Moderate risk, check ingredients for added sauces or flavorings.	Canned versions can be a safe choice, but sodium content may be higher.
Fresh Vegetables	Loose peas and carrots from produce aisle	Inherently gluten-free	Lowest risk, primarily from handling at home.	Most reliable option, with no hidden ingredients.

Conclusion

For those on a gluten-free diet, the verdict on Great Value frozen peas and carrots is positive, with product labels clearly indicating they are gluten-free. This makes them a safe and affordable staple for many households. However, this safety should not be assumed for all Great Value products. A mindful and consistent approach to label reading is crucial to avoid cross-contamination from other items in the brand's extensive lineup. By understanding the nuances of gluten-free labeling and verifying each product, you can confidently enjoy the nutritional benefits of these simple, wholesome vegetables while adhering to your dietary needs.

Further reading: To learn more about gluten-free certification, you can visit Beyond Celiac.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Great Value frozen vegetables are guaranteed to be gluten-free. While the plain peas and carrots are explicitly labeled as such, you must read the label on any flavored or mixed vegetable product to verify its gluten-free status.

The canned versions of Great Value peas and carrots are also frequently labeled gluten-free. However, as with all packaged foods, it is best to check the specific product label for any added sauces or seasonings that might contain gluten.

A 'gluten-free' label means the product meets the legal standard of containing less than 20 ppm of gluten. 'Made in a gluten-free facility' provides an extra layer of assurance against cross-contamination, though not all labeled 'gluten-free' products have this distinction.

No, if you have celiac disease or are highly sensitive to gluten, you should avoid products with a 'may contain' warning. This indicates a risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing, even if the primary ingredients are gluten-free.

Cross-contamination can occur if the same equipment is used to process gluten-containing foods (like breaded vegetables or seasoned mixes) and plain frozen vegetables without a proper cleaning process. This is why explicit labeling is so important.

Fresh peas and carrots sold in the produce section are naturally gluten-free and do not require a special label. The risk of contamination is minimal and can be managed by washing them thoroughly at home.

Yes, in 2014, Walmart's Great Value gluten-free line of products was reviewed and certified by the Beyond Celiac Gluten-Free Certification Program, indicating a commitment to safety for these items.