Is Hillshire Farm Turkey Gluten Free?

Hillshire Farm is a popular brand of deli meats, known for their quality oven roasted turkey breast, ham, roast beef and more. Many consumers wonder – is Hillshire Farm turkey gluten free? Can you safely enjoy their roasted, smoked or honey flavored turkey if you are on a gluten free diet?

The good news is that after thorough research, it appears all current Hillshire Farm turkey products are gluten free! However, it’s wise to always double check labels each time you purchase, as ingredients can change.

Why Check for Gluten in Deli Meat?

For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming hidden sources of gluten can cause major health issues. That’s why it’s crucial to check labels on all foods, even items that seem inherently gluten free, like meat.

In the case of deli meats, gluten may be added in the form of thickening agents, flavorings, preservatives and more Soy sauce is a common ingredient in marinades and contains wheat Malt flavoring, malt vinegar and malt extract also contain gluten.

Thankfully, Hillshire Farm no longer uses these problematic ingredients in their turkey products But again, it’s smart to verify each time, as suppliers and recipes do change

Reviewing Hillshire Farm Turkey Ingredients

To determine if current Hillshire Farm turkey is gluten free, let’s take a look at some common product ingredients:

Hillshire Farm Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Turkey breast, turkey broth, contains 2% or less of: salt, vinegar, natural flavor, sodium phosphate

Hillshire Farm Carved Oven Roasted Turkey Breast:

Turkey breast with up to 10% of natural turkey juices, salt, sugar, sodium phosphate.

Hillshire Farm Honey Roasted Turkey Breast:

Turkey breast, water, corn syrup, honey, contains 2% or less of: salt, sodium phosphate.

Hillshire Farm Smoked Turkey Breast:

Turkey breast, water, contains 2% or less of: salt, sodium phosphate, natural smoke flavor, sodium erythorbate, sodium nitrite.

As you can see, the ingredient lists are short and free of gluten-containing additions. The turkey breast itself is a naturally gluten free meat. Other typical ingredients like turkey broth, salt, vinegar, and phosphates do not contain gluten.

The only potential gray area could be around any “natural flavors.” However, Hillshire Farm has confirmed their natural flavors do not contain gluten.

Why Hillshire Farm Changed Their Recipes

Many long-time Hillshire Farm fans may recall that their turkey deli meats previously contained an ingredient called “modified food starch.” Unfortunately, this vague starch ingredient was likely wheat-based.

In 2007, when the FDA began requiring food companies to clearly label potential allergen ingredients like wheat, Hillshire Farm reformulated their recipes. They removed modified food starch and other questionable additives.

The company confirmed in statements online that as of 2007, all their turkey products contain corn-based starches rather than wheat. They revamped their full deli meat line to eliminate allergens and unwanted additions like MSG.

How to Enjoy Hillshire Farm Turkey Safely

Now that Hillshire Farm turkey appears gluten-free friendly, here are some tips for savoring it safely:

• Carefully read labels and ingredients each time before purchasing or consuming their products. While recipes seem stable now, ingredients can always change down the road.

• Check allergen statements on packaging to see if wheat is listed.

• Look for any warning statements like “made in a facility that also processes wheat.”

• Choose products marked “gluten free” on front of packaging when possible.

• Speak to deli staff about preparation practices if buying meat fresh-sliced. Cross contamination is possible at the deli counter.

• Contact Hillshire Farm directly if ever unsure about an ingredient or product. Their customer service team is available to confirm gluten free status.

• Start with a small serving when trying a new product to check for symptoms. Everyone has a different sensitivity level.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Hillshire Farm Gluten Free Turkey

Now that you can feel confident Hillshire Farm’s turkey is gluten free friendly, get ready to enjoy it in all kinds of recipes! Here are just a few ideas:

• Make a classic turkey sandwich stacked with veggies on gluten free bread.

• Roll up turkey breast, cheese and condiments in a lettuce wrap or gluten free tortilla.

• Toss shredded turkey into your favorite garden salad.

• Enjoy slices on a gluten free crackers and cheese tray.

• Top a loaded baked potato with diced turkey.

• Fold turkey into rice paper wraps with fresh herbs and veggies for a summer roll.

• Simmer turkey in bone broth with veggies for a comforting soup.

• Saute turkey breast strips in coconut oil and spices for a protein rice bowl topper.

• Layer turkey onto corn tortilla pizza crusts with cheese and sauce.

• Stuff peppers, mushrooms or tomatoes with a savory turkey mixture.

With so many ways to enjoy the lean protein and flavor of Hillshire Farm’s gluten free oven roasted turkey breast, there’s no need to miss out on deli meats. Just remember to double check labels and handle safely to avoid cross contamination.

The Bottom Line

Can those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance safely eat Hillshire Farm brand turkey products? Based on current ingredient lists, the answer seems to be yes!

Hillshire Farm turkey, including their popular oven roasted, smoked and honey flavors, appears to be gluten free at this time. Just be sure to check labels each time you shop and contact the company with any questions.

With an array of delicious and nutritious deli turkey options opening up, it’s easier than ever to savor sandwiches, salads, pizzas and more on your gluten free diet!