Many spaghetti sauces are naturally gluten-free, with several popular brands explicitly labeling their products as such to assure consumers.
Identifying Gluten-Free Spaghetti Sauces
When choosing a spaghetti sauce, those following a gluten-free diet should always look for clear labeling and understand common ingredients. Gluten-free certification means the product contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the widely accepted standard.
Key Indicators on Labels
- "Gluten-Free" Certification Mark: This is the most reliable indicator, often from organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) or similar bodies.
- "Gluten-Free" Claim: Brands can self-declare their products as gluten-free, but a third-party certification offers additional assurance.
- Ingredient List: Always check the full list of ingredients for hidden sources of gluten.
Barilla Gluten-Free Options
For instance, Barilla offers a range of tomato-based sauces that are considered gluten-free, meeting the standard of less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This makes them a safe and convenient choice for those avoiding gluten.
Here are the Barilla tomato-based sauces that are gluten-free:
| Flavor | Gluten-Free Status |
|---|---|
| Marinara | Yes |
| Fire-Roasted Marinara | Yes |
| Parmesan & Pecorino | Yes |
| Tomato & Basil | Yes |
| Savory Herb | Yes |
| Roasted Garlic | Yes |
| Traditional | Yes |
Ingredients to Watch Out For
While most tomato-based sauces are inherently gluten-free, some sauces, particularly those with thicker consistencies or added flavors, might contain gluten. Be cautious of ingredients such as:
- Wheat flour: Used as a thickener.
- Malt or Malt Extract: Derived from barley.
- Brewer's Yeast: Can contain gluten from barley.
- Soy Sauce: Many varieties contain wheat.
- Modified Food Starch: While often gluten-free (e.g., from corn or potato), it can sometimes be wheat-based unless specified.
General Tips for Safe Selection
- Read Labels Diligently: This is the most crucial step for any packaged food.
- Choose Simple Ingredients: Sauces with a short list of natural ingredients (tomatoes, herbs, spices, olive oil, vegetables) are generally safer.
- Beware of Cross-Contamination: If you have severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, consider brands that explicitly state their products are processed in a gluten-free facility or have strict cross-contamination prevention measures.
- Homemade Sauce: Making your own spaghetti sauce from scratch offers complete control over ingredients, ensuring it's 100% gluten-free.
By being mindful of labels and ingredients, finding delicious gluten-free spaghetti sauce is a straightforward process, allowing you to enjoy your favorite pasta dishes without concern.
