Learn about Gluten Free
Hi,
My name is Mike. I’m one of the owners of The Horse’s Axe in Denison, Tx. Looks like “the cat is out of the bag” about our GF Kitchen. So, I feel it’s necessary to create a page to explain everything about our kitchen.
I’ve been gluten free for over 12 years. I understand how hard it can sometimes be for people like myself to find places to eat. I’ve experienced it. I also understand the effects gluten can have on the body. I’d like to point out that our kitchen is not “certified” gluten free, nor is every single food product we use “certified” gluten free. I check the labels of all the food and sauces to make sure there are no wheat or wheat products in them. But, as all products say, we can’t verify what may happen in a food processing plant. There are also some things like “spices” or “flavoring” listed as ingredients which are impossible to get answers on. I’ve tried. Therefore, I want you to be able to make an educated decision about whether or not you want to eat here. I’ve created a list with all of our food products and their ingredients. I’ve also taken an additional step and asked AI to research all ingredients, and I’ve listed those answers as well. The only things not on the list are naturally gluten free items like Onions, Green Peppers, Limes and other fresh fruits and vegetables we buy from a grocery store. We have some individually wrapped candy bars that are not gluten free, but those are the only items. We have individually packed potato chips that are “certified” gluten free. Everything cooked in the kitchen is on this web page.
A question we frequently get asked is, “why don’t you advertise your gluten free kitchen?” My answer has always been, “because people who don’t eat gluten free won’t want to eat here”. Let’s face it, gluten free food does not have a reputation of being “good”. To those of you who are gluten free, you know what I’m talking about. So, we’ve kept it a secret. We’ve quietly informed the people who come in and ask about gluten free food, and as you would expect, they’ve been thrilled!
We also have a fairly large selection of gluten reduced beer…yes, beer! I got tired of going to restaurants and asking if they have any gluten free beer and being told, ”Yeah, we have Angry Orchard”. While ciders are good, they’re not beer. So, I’ve made it a small mission of mine to find gluten reduced beers. When I say gluten reduced, that means we have beers that are measured at 20 parts per million or less. From the National Celiac Association website: For individuals with celiac disease, the generally accepted safe level of gluten is less than 20 ppm (parts per million). This is the cut-off established by the FDA in 2013 for foods labeled gluten free. Foods that are certified gluten-free (vs. labeled but not certified) must comply with various protocols and not exceed different cut-off levels of gluten, at or lower than 20 ppm, depending on the certifying organization. The bottom line is that any certified gluten-free food can be considered a safe choice, as it must be below the FDA (and generally accepted) safe cut-off level of 20 ppm of gluten. Since ppm refers to a concentration and not to an absolute amount, total gluten intake is also related to how much of a given food is consumed. Out of an abundance of caution, some consumers may wish to opt for a lower ppm when possible for foods consumed in larger quantities.
If you’ve heard about our kitchen but are skeptical, I completely understand. That’s why I’m listing everything here so you can make the right decision for you and/or your family. It’s also important to know that The Horse’s Axe location in Denison, Tx is currently the only Horse’s Axe with this type of kitchen.
Pizza Ingredients and Toppings
GLUTEN-FREE
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS FOR U.S. MARKET: CAULIFLOWER, LOW MOISTURE MOZZARELLA CHEESE (PASTEURIZED MILK, CHEESE CULTURES, SALT, ENZYME), TAPIOCA STARCH, RICE FLOUR, RICE STARCH, EGG WHITES, MODIFIED RICE STARCH, CANE SUGAR, YEAST, SALT, GARLIC POWDER, SPICES, XANTHAN GUM, CULTURED BROWN RICE, BROWN RICE FLOUR, CITRIC ACID, LACTIC ACID
AI Research
Naturally gluten-free ingredients:
- Cauliflower
- Low moisture mozzarella cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzyme) – safe unless enzymes are from questionable sources, but usually gluten-free in U.S. products.
- Tapioca starch
- Rice flour
- Rice starch
- Egg whites
- Modified rice starch
- Cane sugar
- Yeast
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Spices – sometimes a vague term, but in the U.S., “spices” are typically gluten-free unless it specifically says otherwise.
- Xanthan gum
- Cultured brown rice
- Brown rice flour
- Citric acid
- Lactic acid
Important Notes:
- The term “modified” starch can be a red flag, but since it's specified as “modified rice starch”, it is considered gluten-free.
Ingredients
VINE-RIPENED FRESH TOMATOES, BLEND OF EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL AND SUNFLOWER OIL, SALT, OREGANO, GRANULATED GARLIC, BLACK PEPPER, AND NATURALLY DERIVED CITRIC ACID.
AI Research:
- Vine-ripened fresh tomatoes – naturally gluten-free
- Blend of extra virgin olive oil and sunflower oil – both oils are naturally gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Oregano – naturally gluten-free herb
- Granulated garlic – naturally gluten-free
- Black pepper – naturally gluten-free spice
- Naturally derived citric acid – gluten-free (usually from corn or sugar beets, not wheat)
Conclusion:
No wheat, barley, rye, malt, or gluten-containing additives are present. This ingredient list is safe for a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS: PORK, WATER, SPICES, SALT, NATURAL FLAVORING, CARAMELIZED SUGAR, DEHYDRATED GARLIC, PAPRIKA.
AI Research:
- Pork – gluten-free
- Water – gluten-free
- Spices – typically gluten-free in the U.S., though this is a vague term; cross-contamination is possible depending on the source
- Salt – gluten-free
- Natural flavoring – potential gray area. It’s often gluten-free but can sometimes include gluten-containing ingredients. In meat products, it’s usually safe, but not guaranteed without manufacturer confirmation.
- Caramelized sugar – gluten-free
- Dehydrated garlic – gluten-free
- Paprika – gluten-free
Conclusion:
"Natural flavoring" is the only ingredient that might be questionable.
Ingredients
BEEF, WATER, TEXTURED VEGETABLE PROTEIN (SOY FLOUR, SALT), SALT, SPICES, SUGAR.
AI Research:
- Beef – gluten-free
- Water – gluten-free
- Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)
- Made from soy flour and salt – typically gluten-free, as long as no wheat-based additives are used.
- Important: TVP must be processed in a gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.
- Salt – gluten-free
- Spices – typically gluten-free in the U.S., though vague
- Sugar – gluten-free
Conclusion:
All ingredients are gluten-free by nature, but the TVP (textured vegetable protein) is the one to watch. If it’s made in a facility that also processes wheat, there’s a small risk of cross-contamination.
Ingredients
Cured with: Water, Salt, Sugar, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Phosphates, Sodium Diacetate, Sodium Ascorbate, Sodium Nitrite.
AI Research:
Ingredients:
- Water – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Sugar – Gluten-free
- Sodium Lactate – Gluten-free (a salt derived from lactic acid, not related to gluten)
- Sodium Phosphates – Gluten-free
- Sodium Diacetate – Gluten-free
- Sodium Ascorbate – Gluten-free (a form of Vitamin C)
- Sodium Nitrite – Gluten-free
✅ Summary:
There are no gluten-containing grains (wheat, barley, rye, or derivatives) in this ingredient list. These additives are common in processed meats and are typically safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Ingredients
PORK, BEEF, SALT, SPICES, DEXTROSE, LACTIC ACID STARTER CULTURE, OLEORESIN OF PAPRIKA, FLAVORING, GARLIC POWDER, SODIUM NITRITE, BHA, BHT, CITRIC ACID
AI Research
- Pork – naturally gluten-free
- Beef – naturally gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Spices – typically gluten-free in U.S. food products (though it’s a vague term)
- Dextrose – usually derived from corn in the U.S., and gluten-free
- Lactic acid starter culture – gluten-free (used for fermentation; not derived from gluten)
- Oleoresin of paprika – gluten-free (a natural extract used for color/flavor)
- Flavoring – potentially questionable (vague term; usually gluten-free, but may rarely contain gluten)
- Garlic powder – gluten-free
- Sodium nitrite – gluten-free
- BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) – gluten-free
- BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) – gluten-free
- Citric acid – gluten-free (usually from corn or sugar beets)
⚠️ Ingredient to be cautious of:
- "Flavoring" – This is the only ambiguous item. In most meat products in the U.S., "flavoring" is gluten-free, but manufacturers are not required to specify the source unless it's a known allergen (like wheat).
Conclusion:
The ingredients are likely gluten-free, especially if the product is made in the U.S. and doesn’t list wheat or other gluten-containing grains.
Ingredients: Pork, Water, Contains 2% or less of Salt, Sugar, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite
AI Research
Ingredients:
- Pork – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Sugar – Gluten-free
- Sodium Phosphate – Gluten-free
- Sodium Erythorbate – Gluten-free (a preservative, often derived from sugar)
- Sodium Nitrite – Gluten-free (a common curing agent)
✅ Summary:
There are no gluten-containing ingredients (like wheat, barley, rye, or malt). All the listed additives are synthetic or derived from non-gluten sources.
Ingredients
BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST, WATER, SEASONING (POTATO STARCH, YEAST EXTRACT, SALT, ONION POWDER,GARLIC POWDER, SPICES, AND CITRUS EXTRACT), AND DEXTROSE.
AI Research
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Seasoning:
- Potato Starch – Gluten-free (from potatoes, not wheat)
- Yeast Extract – Usually gluten-free; if derived from barley, it should be labeled (most U.S. manufacturers use gluten-free sources)
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Onion Powder – Gluten-free
- Garlic Powder – Gluten-free
- Spices – Typically gluten-free (though unspecified, U.S. labeling laws require declaration of allergens like wheat)
- Citrus Extract – Gluten-free
- Dextrose – Gluten-free (typically derived from corn)
✅ Conclusion:
All ingredients appear gluten-free, and there are no declared gluten-containing grains. However:
⚠️ Minor Watchout:
- Yeast extract and “spices” could potentially include gluten if sourced from barley or wheat, though this is rare in U.S. food labeling—and would legally require disclosure under FDA allergen rules.
Ingredients
BEEF, WATER, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF: BEEF EXTRACT, CITRUS EXTRACT, DEXTROSE, GUM ARABIC, NATURAL FLAVOR, POTATO MALTODEXTRIN, POTATO STARCH, SALT, SPICES, YEAST EXTRACT.
AI Research
- Beef
- Water
- Beef Extract – Gluten-free when derived from beef
- Citrus Extract – Gluten-free
- Dextrose – Gluten-free (usually from corn)
- Gum Arabic – Gluten-free
- Natural Flavor – Usually gluten-free, but can sometimes contain gluten if derived from barley malt or other grains (unlikely, but worth checking if you're serving celiac guests)
- Potato Maltodextrin – Gluten-free (as it is from potatoes, not wheat)
- Potato Starch – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Spices – Generally gluten-free under U.S. labeling laws (unless part of a seasoning blend that includes wheat, which would have to be disclosed)
- Yeast Extract – Usually gluten-free, but may come from barley in some cases (should be disclosed if so)
⚠️ Caution Areas:
- Yeast Extract – May contain gluten if derived from barley (manufacturers are required to disclose wheat, but not barley, unless making a gluten-free claim).
- Natural Flavor – May include gluten-containing ingredients in rare cases.
✅ Conclusion:
This ingredient list is likely gluten-free, especially under U.S. FDA labeling laws, which would require wheat to be declared. However, because of yeast extract and natural flavor, those with celiac disease should proceed with caution unless the product is labeled or certified gluten-free.
Ingredients
Jalapeno Peppers, Water, Vinegar, Salt, Calcium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate (Preservative), Sodium Metabisulfite (Preservative), Yellow 5
AI Research
- Jalapeño Peppers – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Vinegar – Most likely distilled vinegar, which is gluten-free (if it were malt vinegar, it would need to be labeled as such)
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Calcium Chloride – A firming agent, gluten-free
- Sodium Benzoate – A preservative, gluten-free
- Sodium Metabisulfite – A preservative, gluten-free
- Yellow 5 – A synthetic food dye, gluten-free
Conclusion:
There are no gluten-containing ingredients listed. This product is safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, assuming no cross-contamination during manufacturing.
Ingredients: Olives, Water, Salt, Ferrous Gluconate
AI Research:
- Olives are naturally gluten-free.
- Water and salt have no gluten.
- Ferrous gluconate is an iron additive used to preserve the black color of ripe olives; it’s gluten-free.
As long as the product wasn’t processed in a facility with cross-contamination risk (which most olive brands avoid or label for), it’s safe for gluten-free diets.
Cheese
Ingredients
Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes), Potato Starch, Corn Starch and Powdered Cellulose (to Prevent Caking), Natamycin (a Natural Mold Inhibitor). Contains: Milk
AI Research:
- Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes) – gluten-free
- Potato starch – gluten-free
- Corn starch – gluten-free
- Powdered cellulose (to prevent caking) – gluten-free
- Natamycin (a natural mold inhibitor) – gluten-free
- Contains: Milk – gluten-free (milk does not contain gluten)
Conclusion:
✅ All ingredients listed are gluten-free and safe for those avoiding gluten. There’s no wheat, barley, rye, or gluten-containing additives present.
Ingredients:
Pasteurized whole milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, powdered cellulose, natamycin
AI Research
- Pasteurized whole milk – Gluten Free
- Cheese cultures – Gluten Free
- Salt – Gluten Free
- Powdered cellulose (to prevent caking) – Gluten Free
- Natamycin (a natural mold inhibitor) – Gluten Free
Conclusion:
This product is gluten-free. None of the ingredients contain gluten, and there are no indications of cross-contamination risks. It is also kosher certified.
Ingredients
(Howard Medford plants)Ingredients: Cheddar Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes, Color Added), Potato Starch And Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking, Natamycin (A Natural Mold Inhibitor).Contains: Milk(Jerome plant-No longer producing as of July 1, 2019)Ingredients: Cheddar Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes, Color Added), Potato Starch And Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking, Natamycin Added To Maintain Freshness.Contains: Milk
AI Research
- Cheddar cheese (Pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, color added) – All components are naturally gluten-free.
- Potato starch – Gluten-free.
- Powdered cellulose (added to prevent caking) – Gluten-free.
- Natamycin (natural mold inhibitor / to maintain freshness) – Gluten-free.
- Contains: Milk – Milk is gluten-free.
Conclusion:
There are no gluten-containing ingredients in either version of the product, and all listed items are considered safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
French Fries
Ingredients:
Potatoes, Vegetable Oil (may include Soybean Oil, Canola Oil, Cottonseed Oil), Dextrose, Disodium Dihydrogen Pyrophosphate (for color retention)
AI Research
- Potatoes – Naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetable Oil (Soybean, Canola, Cottonseed) – These oils are gluten-free.
- Dextrose – Typically derived from corn or other gluten-free sources in the U.S.; generally considered gluten-free.
- Disodium Dihydrogen Pyrophosphate – A chemical additive that does not contain gluten.
Conclusion: Based on typical industry practices, Frozen Big C 1/4" Shoestring French Fries are likely gluten-free. However, for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it's always best to contact the manufacturer directly.
Sauces and Spreads
Ingredients:
Hass Avocados, Lime Juice, Red Onions, Cilantro, Jalapeno Peppers, Contains 2% or less of : Sea Salt, Vinegar, Garlic.
AI Research
- Hass avocados – gluten-free
- Lime juice – gluten-free
- Red onions – gluten-free
- Cilantro – gluten-free
- Jalapeño peppers – gluten-free
- Sea salt – gluten-free
- Vinegar – gluten-free (most common types like white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are safe; malt vinegar is not, but it’s not listed here)
- Garlic – gluten-free
✅ Conclusion:
This ingredient list is 100% gluten-free and safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. No gluten-containing grains or additives are present.
Ingredients:
WATER, CHEDDAR CHEESE (pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes), CREAM (milk), POBLANO PEPPERS, HATCH GREEN CHILES, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, JALAPENO PEPPERS (with salt, acetic acid, water, calcium chloride), SODIUM PHOSPHATES, SALT, DEHYDRATED RED BELL PEPPERS, JALAPENO EXTRACTIVES.Contains: Milk
AI Research:
- Water – gluten-free
- Cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes) – gluten-free
- Cream (milk) – gluten-free
- Poblano peppers – gluten-free
- Hatch green chiles – gluten-free
- Modified food starch – likely gluten-free, especially in the U.S. where it is most commonly made from corn, potato, or tapioca. If it were derived from wheat, it would be required to be labeled as such due to FDA allergen labeling rules.
- Jalapeño peppers (with salt, acetic acid, water, calcium chloride) – gluten-free
- Sodium phosphates – gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Dehydrated red bell peppers – gluten-free
- Jalapeño extractives – gluten-free
- Contains: Milk – milk is gluten-free
Conclusion:
All ingredients are gluten-free and safe for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The only minor note is modified food starch, but since there's no mention of wheat and the U.S. labeling regulations require disclosure of major allergens, this would be considered gluten-free unless otherwise stated.
Ingredients:
SOYBEAN OIL, WATER, CULTURED LOWFAT BUTTERMILK, DISTILLED VINEGAR, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF EGG YOLK, SALT, FOOD STARCH-MODIFIED, MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE, BUTTERMILK, GARLIC*, NONFAT DRY MILK, XANTHAN GUM, PARSLEY*, SOUR CREAM (CREAM, NONFAT MILK, CULTURES), SPICE, SORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), CITRIC ACID, ONION*, CALCIUM DISODIUM EDTA (TO PROTECT FLAVOR), YEAST EXTRACT, NATURAL FLAVOR (INCLUDES MILK). *DRIED CONTAINS: MILK, EGG.
AI Research:
- Soybean oil – gluten-free
- Water – gluten-free
- Cultured lowfat buttermilk – gluten-free
- Distilled vinegar – gluten-free (distilled vinegar is safe, unless made from malt, which would be disclosed)
- Egg yolk (less than 2%) – gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Food starch-modified – likely gluten-free in U.S. products; if it were wheat-based, it would be labeled as such due to FDA rules
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG) – gluten-free
- Buttermilk – gluten-free
- Garlic (dried) – gluten-free
- Nonfat dry milk – gluten-free
- Xanthan gum – gluten-free (often used in gluten-free baking)
- Parsley (dried) – gluten-free
- Sour cream (cream, nonfat milk, cultures) – gluten-free
- Spice – typically gluten-free (but always slightly vague)
- Sorbic acid (preservative) – gluten-free
- Citric acid – gluten-free
- Onion (dried) – gluten-free
- Calcium disodium EDTA – gluten-free
- Yeast extract – usually gluten-free in U.S. products, though occasionally questioned if derived from wheat
- Natural flavor (includes milk) – generally gluten-free, especially if wheat is not listed under allergens
⚠️ Allergens Listed:
- Contains: Milk, Egg – these are not gluten-related allergens
Conclusion:
This ingredient list is very likely gluten-free, especially under U.S. labeling regulations, which require wheat to be clearly disclosed if present. There are no gluten-containing grains or derivatives listed.
Ingredients:
SOYBEAN OIL, CULTURED BUTTERMILK, WATER, DISTILLED VINEGAR, JALAPENO PEPPER, EGG YOLK, SALT, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, MODIFIED CORN STARCH, NATURAL FLAVOR, SPICE, BUTTERMILK SOLIDS, SUGAR, RED BELL PEPPER,* XANTHAN GUM, DISODIUM INOSINATE AND DISODIUM GUANYLATE, ONION,* GARLIC,* PAPRIKA, SODIUM BENZOATE AND SORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVES), YEAST EXTRACT, MALTODEXTRIN, MUSTARD FLOUR, LACTIC ACID, WHEY, CALCIUM DISODIUM EDTA (TO PROTECT FLAVOR), AUTOLYZED YEAST EXTRACT, MILK, LACTOSE. *DRIED. CONTAINS EGG, MILK
AI Research:
- Soybean oil – gluten-free
- Cultured buttermilk – gluten-free
- Water – gluten-free
- Distilled vinegar – gluten-free (not malt vinegar)
- Jalapeño pepper – gluten-free
- Egg yolk – gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Apple cider vinegar – gluten-free
- Modified corn starch – gluten-free
- Natural flavor – usually gluten-free, but can occasionally contain gluten (not common in U.S. products; must declare wheat if present)
- Spice – generally gluten-free
- Buttermilk solids – gluten-free
- Sugar – gluten-free
- Red bell pepper (dried) – gluten-free
- Xanthan gum – gluten-free
- Disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate – gluten-free
- Onion, garlic, paprika (dried) – gluten-free
- Sodium benzoate and sorbic acid – gluten-free preservatives
- Yeast extract – usually gluten-free in the U.S., unless derived from wheat (would be labeled)
- Maltodextrin – gluten-free (even if from wheat in the U.S., it is processed to remove gluten)
- Mustard flour – gluten-free
- Lactic acid – gluten-free
- Whey, milk, lactose – gluten-free dairy ingredients
- Calcium disodium EDTA – gluten-free
- Autolyzed yeast extract – usually gluten-free unless sourced from wheat (must be labeled)
Contains:
- Egg, Milk – these are allergens, not gluten-related
Conclusion:
All listed ingredients are gluten-free, assuming U.S. labeling standards apply. If wheat or any gluten source were present, it would be required to be disclosed under allergen labeling laws.
Ingredients:
CAYENNE PEPPER SAUCE (AGED CAYENNE RED PEPPER, DISTILLED VINEGAR, SALT, GARLIC*), WATER, MARGARINE (SOYBEAN AND HYDROGENATED SOYBEAN OILS, WATER, SALT, MONO AND DIGLYCERIDES, SOY LECITHIN, SODIUM BENZOATE [PRESERVATIVE], NATURAL & ARTIFICIALFLAVOR, BETA-CAROTENE [COLOR], VITAMIN A PALMITATE), CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF SUGAR, SALT, PAPRIKA, XANTHAN GUM, OLEORESIN PAPRIKA (COLOR), GARLIC,* SODIUM BENZOATE (PRESERVATIVE), NATURAL FLAVOR (MILK), SPICE, SODIUM ALGINATE, CALCIUM DISODIUM EDTA (TO PROTECT FLAVOR). *DRIED. CONTAINS MILK, SOY.
AI Research
- Cayenne pepper sauce (aged cayenne red pepper, distilled vinegar, salt, garlic) – All components are gluten-free
- Water – gluten-free
- Margarine (soybean oils, water, salt, mono & diglycerides, soy lecithin, preservatives, flavoring, beta-carotene, vitamin A palmitate) – All of these are gluten-free ingredients
- Sugar – gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Paprika – gluten-free
- Xanthan gum – gluten-free
- Oleoresin paprika (color) – gluten-free
- Garlic (dried) – gluten-free
- Sodium benzoate (preservative) – gluten-free
- Natural flavor (milk) – usually gluten-free; milk is not a gluten source
- Spice – generally gluten-free, unless otherwise specified
- Sodium alginate – gluten-free (a seaweed-derived thickener)
- Calcium disodium EDTA – gluten-free
⚠️ Allergens (non-gluten):
- Contains: Milk, Soy
✅ Conclusion:
There are no gluten-containing grains or derivatives in the ingredients, and none of the components are hidden sources of gluten. In the U.S., if wheat or gluten were present, they would be required to appear in the allergen statement or ingredient list.
Ingredients:
INGREDIENTS: WATER, HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, SUGAR, TOMATO PASTE, DISTILLED AND CIDER VINEGAR, SALT, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, SPICES, NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR, ONION*, GARLIC*, PAPRIKA, CARAMEL COLOR, NATURAL FLAVOR, SODIUM BENZOATE (A PRESERVATIVE) *DEHYDRATED
AI Research
- Water – gluten-free
- High fructose corn syrup – gluten-free
- Sugar – gluten-free
- Tomato paste – gluten-free
- Distilled and cider vinegar – gluten-free (as long as the distilled vinegar is not made from malt, which would be required to be declared under U.S. labeling laws)
- Salt – gluten-free
- Spices – generally gluten-free (though not always fully transparent, they are usually safe unless a gluten-containing additive is included, which must be labeled)
- Natural smoke flavor – typically gluten-free
- Onion (dehydrated) – gluten-free
- Garlic (dehydrated) – gluten-free
- Paprika – gluten-free
- Sodium benzoate (preservative) – gluten-free
Ingredients to Double-Check:
- Modified food starch – In the U.S., this is most commonly made from corn, potato, or tapioca and is gluten-free. If it were made from wheat, it would need to be labeled as such.
- Caramel color – In the U.S., this is usually made from corn and is generally gluten-free. If made from wheat, it’s processed to remove gluten, and again, wheat would have to be declared.
- Natural flavor – Usually gluten-free, but very vague. If it contained wheat or another gluten-containing ingredient, it would need to be disclosed.
Conclusion:
This ingredient list appears gluten-free under U.S. labeling laws. No gluten-containing grains or derivatives are listed, and if wheat were present, it would have to be clearly disclosed.
Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar, Corn Starch), Modified Corn Starch, Distilled Vinegar, Less than 2 % of: Crushed Garlic, Ginger Puree, Dried Garlic, Citric Acid
AI Research:
- Water, Sugar, Modified Corn Starch, Distilled Vinegar, Citric Acid – gluten-free
- Soy Sauce – La Choy’s version uses corn starch for thickening; not the traditional wheat-based formula—making it a gluten-free soy sauce
- Crushed/Dried Garlic and Ginger Puree – gluten-free seasonings
Additionally, retailers like Food 4 Less and Cub categorize the sauce as “Gluten Free”
Conclusion:
- Fully gluten-free ingredient list—no wheat, barley, rye, or malt vinegar.
- The soy sauce is specifically made with corn starch, not wheat.
- Retail labeling supports this as a gluten-free product.
Ingredients:
TOMATO CONCENTRATE, HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, DISTILLED VINEGAR, CORN SYRUP, SALT, LESS THAN 2% OF: SPICES, ONION POWDER, GARLIC POWDER, NATURAL FLAVORS.
AI Research:
- Tomato concentrate – Gluten-free
- High fructose corn syrup – Gluten-free
- Distilled vinegar – Gluten-free (in the U.S., even if derived from wheat, the distillation removes gluten)
- Corn syrup – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Spices, onion powder, garlic powder – Typically gluten-free (unless processed with gluten-containing anti-caking agents, which must be disclosed)
- Natural flavors – Usually gluten-free; in the U.S., any wheat-derived ingredient must be disclosed on the label
Conclusion:
Yes, this ingredient list is gluten-free under U.S. labeling laws.
WINGS
Ingredients:
CHICKEN WING SECTIONS, WATER, CONTAINS 2% OR LESS OF THE FOLLOWING: CORN STARCH, DEXTROSE, LEAVENING (SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE, SODIUM BICARBONATE), MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, NATURAL FLAVOR, RICE FLOUR, SALT, SODIUM PHOSPHATES, TAPIOCA STARCH, YELLOW CORN FLOUR. BLANCHED IN VEGETABLE OIL.
AI Research:
- Chicken wing sections – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Corn starch – Gluten-free
- Dextrose – Gluten-free (a type of sugar, often made from corn)
- Leavening (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate) – Gluten-free (used for texture/raising)
- Modified food starch – Usually gluten-free in the U.S.; must declare wheat if sourced from it (and no wheat is listed)
- Natural flavor – Typically gluten-free; in the U.S., wheat must be labeled if used
- Rice flour – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Sodium phosphates – Gluten-free
- Tapioca starch – Gluten-free
- Yellow corn flour – Gluten-free
- Blanched in vegetable oil – Gluten-free, assuming no cross-contact with gluten-containing items during frying
Important Note:
The ingredient list itself contains no gluten or wheat-derived ingredients. However, if this product is processed or fried in a facility that also handles breaded/gluten-containing foods, there may be a risk of cross-contamination.
Conclusion:
These ingredients are gluten-free, and the product appears safe for a gluten-free diet
CERTIFIED GLUTEN FREE BY BEYOND CELIAC & THE CANADIAN CELIAC ASSOCIATION.
Ingredients:
BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST, WATER, MARINADE (POTATO STARCH, YEAST EXTRACT, SEA SALT, MALTODEXTRIN, CITRUS EXTRACT, WHITE DISTILLED VINEGAR), FOODSTARCH (UNMODIFIED). PREDUSTED AND BATTERED WITH: WATER, RICE FLOUR, TAPIOCA STARCH, DEXTRIN, CORN STARCH, WHOLE GRAIN YELLOW CORN FLOUR, SALT,CONTAINS TWO PERCENT OR LESS OF EACH OF THEFOLLOWING: LEAVENING (CREAM OF TARTAR, SODIUM BICARBONATE), YEAST EXTRACT, DEXTROSE, PEA PROTEIN, XANTHAN GUM, NATURAL FLAVOR. BREADED WITH: RICE FLOUR, TAPIOCA STARCH, DEXTRIN, SALT, LEAVENING (CREAM OF TARTAR, SODIUM BICARBONATE), CONTAINS TWO PERCENTOR LESS OF EACH OF THE FOLLOWING: XANTHAN GUM, CANE SUGAR, PEA PROTEIN, SOYBEAN OIL (PROCESSING AID), YEAST EXTRACT, YEAST, SPICE, DEXTROSE, NATURAL FLAVOR.BREADING SET IN SOYBEAN OIL.
AI Research
- Boneless skinless chicken breast, water — naturally gluten-free
- Marinade:
- Potato starch — gluten-free
- Yeast extract — typically gluten-free unless derived from wheat (rare; usually labeled if so)
- Sea salt — gluten-free
- Maltodextrin — usually gluten-free in the US (often made from corn or potato)
- Citrus extract — gluten-free
- White distilled vinegar — gluten-free (distilled vinegar is generally gluten-free even if made from wheat)
- Food starch (unmodified) — typically gluten-free; wheat would have to be declared if present
- Predusted and battered with:
- Water, rice flour, tapioca starch, dextrin, corn starch, whole grain yellow corn flour, salt — all gluten-free
- Leavening agents (cream of tartar, sodium bicarbonate) — gluten-free
- Yeast extract, dextrose, pea protein, xanthan gum, natural flavor — generally gluten-free (natural flavors may vary but usually gluten-free; wheat would be declared)
- Breaded with:
- Rice flour, tapioca starch, dextrin, salt, leavening — gluten-free
- Cane sugar, pea protein, soybean oil, yeast extract, yeast, spice, dextrose, natural flavor — gluten-free
- Breading set in soybean oil — gluten-free
Conclusion:
These ingredients do not contain gluten as listed and are safe for a gluten-free diet based on the ingredient list alone. For people with celiac disease or very high sensitivity, confirming manufacturing practices or gluten-free certification is best.
Turkey Burnt Ends
Ingredients
Ingredients: Turkey Thigh Meat, Water, Dextrose, Seasoning (Salt, Sugar, Natural Flavorings, Deactivated Yeast, Dehydrated Chicken Broth, Canola Oil, Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil), Tamari Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar), Brown Sugar, Corn Starch, Natural Flavors, Soybean Oil, Caramel Color, Cultured Celery Powder, Sea Salt, Beet Powder (Color), Black Pepper. Contains: Soy
AI Research
Ingredient Breakdown Regarding Gluten:
- Turkey Thigh Meat, Water, Dextrose — gluten-free
- Seasoning:
- Salt, Sugar — gluten-free
- Natural flavorings — usually gluten-free; if wheat/gluten-derived, labeling required
- Deactivated yeast — gluten-free
- Dehydrated chicken broth — gluten-free
- Canola oil, Chicken fat, Soybean oil — gluten-free
- Tamari Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar):
- Important: Traditional soy sauce often contains wheat, but tamari is usually made without wheat and considered gluten-free. However, not all tamari brands are 100% gluten-free, so this depends on the specific product used.
- Brown sugar, Corn starch, Natural flavors, Soybean oil, Caramel color, Cultured celery powder, Sea salt, Beet powder, Black pepper — all generally gluten-free
- Contains: Soy — no gluten here, but good allergen note
Key Point:
- The tamari soy sauce is the ingredient to watch. If it's genuine tamari that is wheat-free, then the product is gluten-free.
Conclusion:
- These ingredients could be gluten-free if the tamari soy sauce is certified gluten-free (wheat-free).
From the USFoods website:
Per US Foods policy for an Exclusive Branded product to carry a Gluten Free claim it requires certification. This product is not Gluten Free certified. This product does not contain any intentionally included gluten ingredients. This product is produced in a plant that does handle gluten ingredients.
Potato Skins
Ingredients: POTATOES
That was easy!
Ingredients: Pork, Water, Contains 2% or less of Salt, Sugar, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite
AI Research
Ingredients:
- Pork – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Sugar – Gluten-free
- Sodium Phosphate – Gluten-free
- Sodium Erythorbate – Gluten-free (a preservative, often derived from sugar)
- Sodium Nitrite – Gluten-free (a common curing agent)
✅ Summary:
There are no gluten-containing ingredients (like wheat, barley, rye, or malt). All the listed additives are synthetic or derived from non-gluten sources.
NACHOS
Ingredients: Ground Corn, Vegetable Oil (Contains One Or More Of The Following: Corn, Sunflower, Safflower, Or Canola Oil), And Salt.
AI Research:
Yes, these ingredients are gluten-free:
- Ground corn – Naturally gluten-free
- Vegetable oil (corn, sunflower, safflower, canola) – All are gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
There are no gluten-containing grains (like wheat, barley, or rye) or additives that typically contain gluten. This product is safe for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion: Yes, these ingredients are gluten-free.
Classic Bush’s Best Black Beans (unseasoned)
Ingredients: Prepared black beans, Water, Salt
Ingredients:
WATER, CHEDDAR CHEESE (pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes), CREAM (milk), POBLANO PEPPERS, HATCH GREEN CHILES, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, JALAPENO PEPPERS (with salt, acetic acid, water, calcium chloride), SODIUM PHOSPHATES, SALT, DEHYDRATED RED BELL PEPPERS, JALAPENO EXTRACTIVES.Contains: Milk
AI Research:
- Water – gluten-free
- Cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes) – gluten-free
- Cream (milk) – gluten-free
- Poblano peppers – gluten-free
- Hatch green chiles – gluten-free
- Modified food starch – likely gluten-free, especially in the U.S. where it is most commonly made from corn, potato, or tapioca. If it were derived from wheat, it would be required to be labeled as such due to FDA allergen labeling rules.
- Jalapeño peppers (with salt, acetic acid, water, calcium chloride) – gluten-free
- Sodium phosphates – gluten-free
- Salt – gluten-free
- Dehydrated red bell peppers – gluten-free
- Jalapeño extractives – gluten-free
- Contains: Milk – milk is gluten-free
Conclusion:
All ingredients are gluten-free and safe for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The only minor note is modified food starch, but since there's no mention of wheat and the U.S. labeling regulations require disclosure of major allergens, this would be considered gluten-free unless otherwise stated.
Ingredients:
BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST, WATER, SEASONING (POTATO STARCH, YEAST EXTRACT, SALT, ONION POWDER,GARLIC POWDER, SPICES, AND CITRUS EXTRACT), AND DEXTROSE.
AI Research
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Seasoning:
- Potato Starch – Gluten-free (from potatoes, not wheat)
- Yeast Extract – Usually gluten-free; if derived from barley, it should be labeled (most U.S. manufacturers use gluten-free sources)
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Onion Powder – Gluten-free
- Garlic Powder – Gluten-free
- Spices – Typically gluten-free (though unspecified, U.S. labeling laws require declaration of allergens like wheat)
- Citrus Extract – Gluten-free
- Dextrose – Gluten-free (typically derived from corn)
✅ Conclusion:
All ingredients appear gluten-free, and there are no declared gluten-containing grains. However:
⚠️ Minor Watchout:
- Yeast extract and “spices” could potentially include gluten if sourced from barley or wheat, though this is rare in U.S. food labeling—and would legally require disclosure under FDA allergen rules.
Ingredients:
BEEF, WATER, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF: BEEF EXTRACT, CITRUS EXTRACT, DEXTROSE, GUM ARABIC, NATURAL FLAVOR, POTATO MALTODEXTRIN, POTATO STARCH, SALT, SPICES, YEAST EXTRACT.
AI Research
- Beef
- Water
- Beef Extract – Gluten-free when derived from beef
- Citrus Extract – Gluten-free
- Dextrose – Gluten-free (usually from corn)
- Gum Arabic – Gluten-free
- Natural Flavor – Usually gluten-free, but can sometimes contain gluten if derived from barley malt or other grains (unlikely, but worth checking if you're serving celiac guests)
- Potato Maltodextrin – Gluten-free (as it is from potatoes, not wheat)
- Potato Starch – Gluten-free
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Spices – Generally gluten-free under U.S. labeling laws (unless part of a seasoning blend that includes wheat, which would have to be disclosed)
- Yeast Extract – Usually gluten-free, but may come from barley in some cases (should be disclosed if so)
⚠️ Caution Areas:
- Yeast Extract – May contain gluten if derived from barley (manufacturers are required to disclose wheat, but not barley, unless making a gluten-free claim).
- Natural Flavor – May include gluten-containing ingredients in rare cases.
✅ Conclusion:
This ingredient list is likely gluten-free, especially under U.S. FDA labeling laws, which would require wheat to be declared. However, because of yeast extract and natural flavor, those with celiac disease should proceed with caution unless the product is labeled or certified gluten-free.
Ingredients:
Jalapeno Peppers, Water, Vinegar, Salt, Calcium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate (Preservative), Sodium Metabisulfite (Preservative), Yellow 5
AI Research
- Jalapeño Peppers – Naturally gluten-free
- Water – Gluten-free
- Vinegar – Most likely distilled vinegar, which is gluten-free (if it were malt vinegar, it would need to be labeled as such)
- Salt – Gluten-free
- Calcium Chloride – A firming agent, gluten-free
- Sodium Benzoate – A preservative, gluten-free
- Sodium Metabisulfite – A preservative, gluten-free
- Yellow 5 – A synthetic food dye, gluten-free
Conclusion:
There are no gluten-containing ingredients listed. This product is safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, assuming no cross-contamination during manufacturing.