Sample Foods That Contain Gluten
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is a common ingredient in many of the foods we consume daily. While those living with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease must avoid products that contain gluten, others may simply be curious about what foods have it. In this article, we will explore some sample foods that contain gluten and provide insights for those who wish to learn more about this ubiquitous protein.
1. Bread
Bread is the most common source of gluten in numerous diets. Traditional wheat bread and its variants (whole grain, white, sourdough) are obvious sources of gluten. Less apparent sources include specialty bread such as focaccia, ciabatta, multigrain and bagels.
2. Pasta
Made from wheat flour, pasta is another prominent source of gluten. This applies to a variety of shapes: spaghetti, macaroni, fettuccine, and even those used in casseroles like lasagna noodles.
3. Pastries and Baked Goods
Croissants, muffins, cookies, donuts – you name it! Many baked goods are made with wheat-based flour that contains gluten. Even seemingly healthier choices like bran or oat muffins can contain gluten if not labeled “gluten-free” or made with certified gluten-free oats.
4. Cereals
Breakfast cereals are often made from wheat or barley-based ingredients and therefore contain gluten. This includes cornflakes with malt extract (made from barley), granola containing oats not labeled as gluten-free, and other mixed-grain cereal blends.
5. Beer and Malt Beverages
Due to their production process using grains like barley or sometimes wheat, most beer varieties contain gluten. Malt-based beverages also often include grains that contain the protein.
6. Prepackaged Snack Foods
From chips to crackers to pretzels, many snack foods use wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients. It is important to read labels and choose certified gluten-free options if seeking gluten-free snacks.
7. Processed Meats
Although meat itself is naturally gluten-free, some processed meats like sausages, meatballs, or deli meats may contain gluten-based fillers in the form of breadcrumbs or seasonings.
8. Sauces and Condiments
Many sauces and condiments like soy sauce, barbecue sauce, and salad dressings include wheat-based thickeners or modified food starch which can contain gluten. Some ketchups also have malt vinegar (derived from barley) as an ingredient.
9. Soups
Canned soups often use flour-based thickeners or additives that may contain gluten. Creamed soups especially are more likely to incorporate the protein in their mixtures.
10. Vegetarian Meat Substitutes
Products that mimic meat like veggie burgers, vegetarian hot dogs, meatless bacon, and seitan (or wheat meat) are often made with wheat-based protein sources that include gluten.
In conclusion, an array of foods contain gluten in their ingredients – both obvious and less so. Those looking to avoid or limit their gluten intake should always read labels carefully and seek out certified gluten-free products when unsure about content. The numerous sample foods mentioned above provide a solid starting point for understanding which types of products contain this protein.