For anyone managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, navigating the grocery store can be a challenge. The good news for Mexican food lovers is that Mission Foods has expanded its product line to include several certified gluten-free options. The answer to the question, "Does Mission have gluten free tortillas?" is a resounding yes, but it's important to know which specific products are safe for consumption.
Mission's Certified Gluten-Free Options
Mission Foods has a dedicated category of certified gluten-free products designed for those with gluten-related disorders. These products are clearly labeled and produced with strict allergen controls to prevent cross-contamination.
- Gluten Free Original Tortilla Wraps: A soft, flour-style tortilla alternative that brings the classic wrap experience to a gluten-free diet.
- Gluten Free Chickpea Tortilla Wraps: Made with roasted chickpea flour, these wraps are high in fiber and offer a satisfying texture.
- Gluten Free Sweet Potato Tortilla Wraps: A flavorful option made with sweet potato and cassava flour.
- Gluten Free Spinach Herb Tortilla Wraps: For those seeking a savory twist, these high-fiber wraps offer a zesty spinach and herb flavor.
- Almond Flour Tortilla Wraps: Another certified gluten-free and vegan option, providing a different flavor profile.
- Cauliflower Flour Tortilla Wraps: Part of their newer line, these wraps are also certified gluten-free and vegan.
The Role of Corn Tortillas
In addition to their specially formulated gluten-free wraps, Mission's line of corn products is naturally gluten-free. This includes their white and yellow corn tortillas, as well as their tortilla chips and tostadas. The company has confirmed that its corn production lines are dedicated solely to corn products, with stringent allergen programs in place to prevent any incidental contamination from wheat flour.
Navigating a Healthy Gluten-Free Nutrition Diet
Opting for a gluten-free diet, whether out of necessity or choice, requires careful planning to ensure it's balanced and nutritious. Here are some key considerations:
- Prioritize Naturally Gluten-Free Foods: Base your diet on whole foods that are naturally free of gluten. These include fruits, vegetables, unprocessed meats, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
- Diversify Your Grains: Beyond corn and rice, incorporate other naturally gluten-free grains and pseudocereals like quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, millet, and teff. These can provide essential fiber, iron, and B vitamins that might be lacking in a restrictive diet.
- Mind the Substitutes: While convenient, many packaged gluten-free alternatives like bread and snacks can be higher in sugar, fat, and sodium, and lower in fiber, compared to their gluten-containing counterparts. Choose fortified options where possible and consume these products in moderation.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination: For individuals with celiac disease, even trace amounts of gluten can cause harm. It's crucial to be aware of cross-contamination in shared kitchens and when dining out. Mission's use of dedicated lines helps, but careful handling is always best practice.
Gluten-Free vs. Wheat-Based Mission Tortillas
To help you make the best choice for your dietary needs, here is a comparison of Mission's product types.
| Feature | Mission's Certified GF Wraps | Mission's Corn Tortillas | Mission's Wheat Tortillas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Certified Gluten Free (<20 ppm) | Naturally Gluten Free | Contains Gluten |
| Key Ingredients | Chickpea, sweet potato, cassava, almond, cauliflower flour | Corn masa flour, water | Wheat flour |
| Allergen Control | Produced on dedicated, allergen-controlled lines | Produced on dedicated corn lines | Produced on different lines |
| Flavor Profile | Varies by type (e.g., spinach herb, sweet potato) | Authentic corn flavor | Classic wheat flour taste |
| Best For | Wraps, soft tacos, quesadillas | Tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, chips | Burritos, larger wraps |
Conclusion
For those on a gluten-free nutrition diet, Mission Foods provides a clear and safe path to enjoying a wide range of Mexican-inspired dishes. The brand's commitment to offering certified gluten-free alternatives, coupled with its inherently gluten-free corn products, gives consumers confidence in their choices. By prioritizing naturally gluten-free whole foods and carefully selecting packaged products, individuals can maintain a healthy, balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or variety.
For additional information on managing celiac disease, consulting a medical professional or visiting authoritative sources is recommended, such as the Celiac Disease Foundation.
