As someone who follows a gluten-free diet, I’m always on the lookout for convenient canned foods that are safe for me to eat. Pork and beans are a tasty protein source, so I was excited to hear that a popular brand, Van Camp’s, advertises their pork and beans as gluten-free. But can I truly trust this claim? In this article, I’ll explore what ingredients are in Van Camp’s Pork and Beans, how they are made, and if there’s any risk of gluten cross-contamination.
Overview of Van Camp’s Pork and Beans
Van Camp’s Pork and Beans are a long-time pantry staple appreciated for their hearty texture and savory flavor. The ingredients list is straightforward – just pork, beans, tomato puree, some sweeteners, spices, and preservatives. With no obvious gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley or rye, Van Camp’s states their pork and beans are gluten-free.
But as a gluten-free consumer, I know I need to dig deeper to verify this product’s safety. While the main ingredients seem innocuous, cross-contamination is still a potential concern. Let’s analyze how Van Camp’s Pork and Beans are produced.
How Van Camp’s Pork and Beans Are Made
When assessing a product’s gluten-free status, it’s important to consider the manufacturing process. According to Van Camp’s website, their pork and beans are produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility which follows stringent cleaning protocols. The major allergen control program is designed to avoid cross-contact with gluten.
Ingredients are carefully sourced to ensure no gluten sources are present. Van Camp’s states that suppliers must provide certification of the gluten-free status of raw materials. The product is routinely tested both internally and by third-party labs to verify gluten levels remain under 20ppm.
Potential Sources of Gluten in Van Camp’s Pork and Beans
While the production process seems rigorous in avoiding cross-contamination, a few ingredients in Van Camp’s Pork and Beans may give pause:
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Hydrolyzed Soy Protein: Although soy is gluten-free, hydrolyzed soy protein can potentially contain gluten if wheat enzymes were used in processing. However, Van Camp’s requires non-gluten enzymes.
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Maltodextrin: This additive can be derived from wheat, but Van Camp’s states their maltodextrin is made from corn.
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Natural Flavors: The source is proprietary but Van Camp’s certifies these natural flavors are gluten-free.
As long as these concerning ingredients are sourced from gluten-free grains like corn or rice, then there should be minimal gluten risk. But it’s still an area that requires scrutiny as a gluten-free consumer.
Verifying the Gluten-Free Status
To provide their gluten-free guarantee Van Camp’s Pork and Beans meet the following verification criteria
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Certified gluten-free by GFCO an independent certification organization
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Tested to contain less than 20ppm of gluten
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Produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility
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No gluten sources identified in the ingredients list
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Supplier certifications validate major ingredients are gluten-free
This level of auditing and testing gives me peace of mind as a gluten-free consumer. It meets the FDA standard for labeled gluten-free foods.
Is There Still a Risk of Cross-Contamination?
With strong manufacturing precautions in place, the risk of gluten cross-contact appears very low. However, there is always a tiny chance with mass produced foods that a small amount of gluten could make its way into the Van Camp’s production facility.
The facility does process other canned beans that are NOT gluten-free. So shared equipment could pose a minimal risk if not properly cleaned. As a highly gluten-sensitive individual, this may be enough for me to avoid Van Camp’s as a precaution.
But for many others who are less sensitive, the stringent protocols likely make Van Camp’s Pork and Beans safe to consume. The amount of any potential gluten traces would likely be negligible.
Other Questions About Van Camp’s Pork and Beans:
Here are some additional common questions about the gluten-free status of this product:
Q: Are Van Camp’s Pork and Beans certified gluten-free?
A: Yes, Van Camp’s Pork and Beans are certified gluten-free by GFCO to contain less than 20ppm of gluten.
Q: Can people with celiac disease eat Van Camp’s Pork and Beans?
A: Most people with celiac disease can safely eat Van Camp’s Pork and Beans based on GFCO certification and extensive testing. But those highly sensitive should exercise caution.
Q: What about other allergens besides gluten?
A: Van Camp’s Pork and Beans are free of major allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, fish and shellfish. But they do contain soy.
Q: Where are Van Camp’s Pork and Beans manufactured?
A: They are made in the USA in a dedicated gluten-free facility in Indiana.
Q: Are there gluten-free recipes using Van Camp’s Pork and Beans?
A: Yes, the verified gluten-free status makes them ideal for many gluten-free recipes – chili, casseroles, soups, etc.
The Verdict on Van Camp’s Pork and Beans
Based on my research, I am reassured that Van Camp’s Pork and Beans take major precautions to avoid gluten and can be considered gluten-free. For most gluten-free consumers, Van Camp’s Pork and Beans are a safe and nutritious pantry staple.
However, individuals with extreme gluten sensitivity may want to exercise some caution and look for another option just to be safe. When sourcing gluten-free foods, it’s always smart to read labels and aim for certification by organizations like GFCO whenever possible. But for me and my medium-level gluten sensitivity, I feel comfortable keeping some Van Camp’s Pork and Beans stocked in my pantry.
Are Baked Beans Gluten And Wheat Free
FAQ
Are canned pork and beans gluten-free?
What are the ingredients in Van Camp’s pork and beans?
What beans are not gluten-free?
Are Bush’s pork and beans gluten-free?
Are Van Camp’s baked beans gluten-free?
Van Camp’s Baked beans (also certified gluten-free) tested pretty damn positive on two consecutive tests. Rice Chex tested negative for gluten. All tests done with EZ-gluten. This is becoming frustrating as it’s becoming increasingly apparent that we can’t rely on statements by these manufacturers.
Where can I buy Van Camp pork & beans?
Van Camp’s pork and beans can be found in almost any local or chain grocery store. They are canned beans that are already prepared. You can heat them up directly from the can and enjoy eating them, or you can use them in the creation of a new dish, such as baked beans or other bean recipes that combine a variety of beans together.
What happened to Van Camps pork and beans?
Van Camps obviously have recently changed how they make and can their Pork and Beans. Horrible change! Bland flavor, bad aftertaste awful now! Afget 30+ years of making baked beans ONLY with VCP&Bs, I will no longer be buying them. Their recipe change ruined what once was the best canned beans on the market.
How much protein does Van Camp pork & beans have?
Van Camp’s pork and beans in tomato sauce have 6 grams of protein per serving. Perfect for backyard barbecues and potlucks, these canned beans are delicious in your homemade baked beans recipe or right from the can as a simple side dish.