What is the best store-bought gluten free bread? A complete guide for a nutritious diet

October 25, 2025 •

4 min read

According to one report, nearly 2.7 million people in the U.S. without celiac disease followed a gluten-free diet between 2009 and 2014, highlighting the diet's growing popularity. For those avoiding gluten, the search for a delicious and satisfying loaf can feel endless, often involving a trade-off between texture, taste, and nutrition. This guide breaks down exactly what is the best store-bought gluten free bread for various needs and preferences.

Quick Summary

This guide compares popular store-bought gluten-free bread brands based on taste, texture, slice size, and nutritional value. It includes a brand comparison table and tips for selecting the ideal loaf for your diet.

Key Points

Top Contenders: Brands like Canyon Bakehouse, Schar, Little Northern Bakehouse, and Sam's Choice are highly rated for different reasons, such as taste, size, and price.
Nutritional Awareness: Gluten-free bread is not automatically healthier than traditional bread; it can be lower in fiber and protein and higher in fat and calories.
Ingredient Matters: Look for breads made with whole grains and seeds like sorghum, quinoa, and millet rather than primarily refined starches to boost nutritional value.
Purpose-Driven Choice: The best bread depends on its use; some are great for sandwiches (Little Northern Bakehouse), while others are better for toast (Schar).
Freeze for Freshness: Most store-bought gluten-free breads are best stored in the freezer to maintain their texture and extend their shelf life.
Check for Fortification: Many gluten-free products are not fortified with B vitamins and iron, so review labels carefully to ensure you're getting essential nutrients.

The Challenges and Innovations in Gluten-Free Baking

Removing gluten from bread presents a significant challenge, as gluten is the protein that provides the structure, elasticity, and chewy texture found in traditional bread. To compensate for its absence, manufacturers must use a variety of alternative flours, starches, and binding agents. A typical gluten-free bread ingredient list might include rice flour, tapioca starch, and maize starch, along with stabilizers like xanthan gum or guar gum.

Over the years, gluten-free bread technology has advanced considerably. What was once universally dense and crumbly has evolved into products that can rival their gluten-containing counterparts in softness and flavor. However, the quality can still vary dramatically from brand to brand.

The Nutritional Landscape of Gluten-Free Bread

Contrary to popular belief, gluten-free bread isn't automatically healthier. The nutritional profile can differ significantly from traditional bread, and consumers should be aware of key disparities. Many gluten-free loaves are built on refined starches, which can lead to higher caloric and fat content while being lower in protein and fiber.

Additionally, many traditional breads are fortified with important vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins, a practice not consistently applied to gluten-free products. This can pose a risk of nutritional deficiencies, especially for individuals with celiac disease who rely on these products.

Prioritizing Nutrition in Your Loaf

To make a healthier choice, look for breads that incorporate nutrient-dense, whole-grain flours and seeds, such as:

Sorghum: A naturally gluten-free whole grain that adds fiber and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Millet: A gluten-free pseudocereal that provides fiber and a light, airy texture.
Quinoa: A complete protein source that boosts the nutritional content.
Buckwheat: Adds fiber and a distinct, earthy flavor.
Teff: An ancient grain rich in fiber and iron.
Legume-based flours: Flours from chickpeas or lentils can increase the protein and fiber content.
Flax and Chia Seeds: These are excellent additions for boosting fiber and omega-3s.

Top Contenders: Evaluating the Best Store-Bought Gluten-Free Breads

Based on taste tests and consumer reviews, a few brands consistently rise to the top for different reasons. The best option for you will depend on your priorities for taste, texture, and nutrition.

Canyon Bakehouse

Highly praised by many taste testers, Canyon Bakehouse is a widely available and reliable choice. Their Ancient Grain and Country White breads are favorites, offering a good flavor and structure. However, a common critique is the small slice size, though their Heritage line addresses this at a higher price point. All their products are certified gluten-free and free from dairy, nuts, and soy.

Schar

A large international brand, Schar offers several quality options, including their Artisan Baker Multigrain and Deli-Style Sourdough. Schar bread holds up well for both sandwiches and toast. Their sourdough varieties benefit from a longer fermentation process, which can improve flavor and texture. Schar is also praised for its relatively low price point compared to other GF breads.

Little Northern Bakehouse

Known for its plant-based, allergen-free products, Little Northern Bakehouse is a standout for both taste and size, with their White Wide Slice often winning taste tests for sandwiches. It is praised for its soft texture and large slices. However, it can be pricier than other options.

Sam's Choice (Walmart)

Walmart's store brand bread has surprised many with its quality and affordability. The Sam's Choice Gluten-Free White Bread is praised for its soft, moist texture and neutral flavor, making it excellent for grilled cheese and sandwiches. While it offers great value, it's worth noting that it's often more processed and can be high in starches and fats.

Three Bakers

Another solid contender, Three Bakers offers a good variety, including a rye-style bread. Reviewers appreciate its reliable texture, though some loaves might have smaller slice sizes. It is generally found in the freezer section and, like most GF breads, is best kept frozen for freshness.

Comparison Table: Popular Store-Bought Gluten-Free Breads


Brand	Noteworthy Features	Pros	Cons	Best For	Nutritional Profile (Typical)
Canyon Bakehouse	Certified GF, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free	Great taste, good texture	Small slice size (standard loaf)	Sandwiches, toast, versatile use	Good whole-grain options, but check ingredient list
Schar	International availability, sourdough varieties	Excellent price, good for travel, sturdy	Can be slightly drier than others	Sandwiches on the go, toast, specific varieties	Some refined starches, generally lower fiber
Little Northern Bakehouse	Plant-based, allergen-free	Excellent taste, great for sandwiches, wide slices	Higher price point	Sandwiches, fresh eating	Good fiber content, clean ingredients
Sam's Choice	Walmart house brand	Very affordable, soft texture, good for sandwiches	Often processed, high in starches	Budget-friendly option, grilled cheese	Higher fat and starch, lower fiber
Three Bakers	Certified GF, good variety	Good texture, reliable	Smaller slices, best toasted	Toasting, recipes that benefit from sturdiness	Varies by variety, typically lower protein

Conclusion: Finding Your Best Gluten Free Bread

Determining the absolute best store-bought gluten free bread ultimately comes down to personal preference. A person's ideal loaf depends on what they value most, whether it's the large slice size of Little Northern Bakehouse, the consistent flavor of Canyon Bakehouse, the affordability of Sam's Choice, or the convenience of Schar.

For the best overall health, it's wise to look beyond just the absence of gluten. Prioritize products made with nutrient-dense whole grains and seeds rather than relying solely on refined starches. Always read ingredient labels and consider how each brand's nutritional profile fits into your broader dietary goals. With a little experimentation, you can find a delicious and satisfying gluten-free bread that perfectly complements your diet.

For more information on the nutritional considerations of a gluten-free diet, consult an authoritative resource like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many reviewers find that Little Northern Bakehouse White Wide Slice is the best for sandwiches due to its soft texture and large slice size. Schar's Deli-Style Sourdough and Canyon Bakehouse's bread are also solid choices.

Gluten-free loaves are typically made with alternative flours that lack gluten's elasticity and structure, resulting in smaller, denser products. Some brands like Little Northern Bakehouse and Canyon Bakehouse's Heritage line offer wide-slice varieties to address this.

Not necessarily. While essential for those with celiac disease, many gluten-free breads rely on refined starches and can be lower in fiber and higher in fat and calories compared to whole-wheat bread. Focus on products with whole grains for better nutrition.

Gluten-free bread relies on alternative flours and binders, which can lead to a denser, sometimes drier texture and different flavor profile than traditional wheat bread. To improve the experience, many find that toasting it significantly enhances the taste and texture.

Most store-bought gluten-free bread is best kept in the freezer, especially if purchased frozen. This helps maintain freshness and prevents it from becoming dry or molding quickly. Simply toast or thaw slices as needed.

Walmart's Sam's Choice brand is often cited as a budget-friendly option. Aldi also offers its own Live GFree line, which is known for its lower prices. However, prices and availability can vary by location.

It depends on the brand. Some brands like Canyon Bakehouse and Little Northern Bakehouse are certified free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and soy. Always check the ingredient list and allergen information on the packaging to be sure.