Understanding Gluten and Your Diet
For individuals with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can lead to severe health issues. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, which acts as a binder in many processed foods. A gluten-free diet is the primary treatment for these conditions, making it essential to scrutinize food products carefully.
Lawry's Mesquite Marinade: Ingredient Breakdown
The Lawry's® Mesquite with Lime Marinade is produced by McCormick, which states that this specific marinade does not contain gluten and that all gluten-containing ingredients will be clearly listed on the label. The ingredient list supports this, showing no wheat, barley, or rye.
Common ingredients include water, distilled vinegar, lime juice, salt, spices (like chili pepper and paprika), sugar, modified corn starch, garlic, onion, caramel color, natural flavor (including mesquite smoke), and preservatives.
The 'Hidden' Gluten Factor: Spices and Flavorings
While primary ingredients appear safe, consumers often worry about gluten in 'spices' and 'natural flavor.' McCormick clarifies that gluten-containing grains like wheat and barley will always be declared and not hidden under these terms. The company's allergen policy also ensures that if natural flavor contains gluten, it will be labeled. Caramel color in the US is often corn-based, and McCormick would disclose if it were wheat-derived.
Cross-Contamination and Manufacturing Practices
Cross-contamination is a concern for those with celiac disease. McCormick states that products with a Gluten-Free claim are validated as gluten-free. While this marinade doesn't have that specific claim, the explicit statement that it contains no gluten ingredients, along with their detailed labeling policy, makes it a generally safe option for many. Highly sensitive individuals should check the label for any changes.
Comparison of Marinades for Gluten-Free Diet
| Feature | Lawry's Mesquite Marinade | Stubb's Mesquite Marinade | DIY Mesquite Marinade (from scratch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Does not contain gluten ingredients, per manufacturer. | Explicitly labeled gluten-free. | Guaranteed gluten-free if ingredients are verified. |
| Ingredients | Water, Distilled Vinegar, Lime Juice, Salt, Spices, Sugar, Modified Corn Starch, Garlic, Onion, Caramel Color, Natural Flavor, Preservatives, Xanthan Gum. | Variable; may contain molasses, tomato puree, corn starch, spices, natural smoke flavor, vinegar, brown sugar. | Olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion, and herbs. |
| Cross-Contamination | Less of a concern due to manufacturer's policy but not explicitly certified gluten-free. | Labeled gluten-free, suggesting controlled production environment. | No risk of cross-contamination if prepared in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. |
| Availability | Widely available at most grocery stores. | Widely available, sometimes in specialty sections. | Requires sourcing individual ingredients. |
| Convenience | High. Ready-to-use product. | High. Ready-to-use product. | Low. Requires time and effort to prepare. |
| Cost | Generally affordable. | Competitively priced, sometimes slightly higher. | Can be more cost-effective over time. |
Conclusion: A Safe Choice for Most
Based on manufacturer information and ingredients, Lawry's Mesquite with Lime Marinade does not contain gluten and is generally safe for a gluten-free diet. McCormick's clear labeling policy helps ensure transparency. Although not certified gluten-free, the risk is minimized. Those with extreme sensitivity should still check the label and might consider certified gluten-free options like Stubb's or making their own marinade.
For more on a gluten-free diet and cross-contamination, visit the Celiac Disease Foundation.
What is Gluten and Why Is It Avoided?
Gluten is a protein in wheat, barley, and rye, avoided by those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. It damages the small intestine in individuals with celiac disease.
How to Find a Certified Gluten-Free Product
Certified gluten-free products meet standards of less than 20 ppm gluten through independent testing. Look for certification labels like GFCO on packaging.
Always Read the Label
Ingredient lists are key. Always check for wheat, barley, rye, or 'contains' warnings, as formulations can change. McCormick's policy makes their labels clear.
