Bacon bits are a popular topping for salads, baked potatoes, pasta dishes, and more. McCormick is one of the most well-known brands of bacon bits. But are McCormick’s bacon pieces actually gluten free?
What Are McCormick Bacon Pieces?
McCormick bacon pieces are textured soy flour that has been flavored to imitate the taste and texture of real bacon bits. They come in a few varieties:
- Regular bacon flavor
- Applewood smoked bacon flavor
- Turkey bacon flavor
The bacon-flavored bits contain ingredients like textured soy flour, canola oil, caramel color, yeast extract, natural and artificial flavors, and preservatives.
McCormick states that their bacon pieces contain no actual bacon or pork. They are vegetarian and vegan friendly.
Why Check for Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. It causes an autoimmune reaction in those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity leading to damage in the small intestine.
Common symptoms of gluten ingestion can include:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes
The only treatment for gluten-related disorders is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. This means avoiding foods and ingredients containing gluten.
For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, checking packaged foods for gluten is crucial. Even tiny amounts can cause issues.
Are McCormick’s Bacon Pieces Gluten-Free?
The good news is that McCormick has confirmed their standard bacon pieces are gluten free!
On McCormick’s website, they state that the classic Bacon Flavored Bits contain less than 20 ppm (parts per million) of gluten. Any food with less than 20 ppm of gluten is considered gluten free.
The Applewood Smoked Bacon Flavored Bits also have the same <20 ppm reassurance on McCormick’s site. Therefore, both varieties can be considered gluten-free.
McCormick’s turkey flavored bacon pieces likely follow the same standards, but check labels to be 100% sure
McCormick’s Allergen Statement
For further confirmation, we can look at the allergen statement McCormick provides on their website for these bacon bits:
“If any product has a Gluten Free claim, the product and the manufacturing line has been validated Gluten Free.”
This states that McCormick actually tests the product and production lines to verify gluten levels are under 20 ppm for anything labeled gluten free.
They also note:
“All our retail Extracts and Food Colors are formulated without gluten.”
While bacon pieces aren’t extracts or food colors, this at least provides some reassurance about McCormick’s overall diligence with gluten.
Checking Labels is Still Important
While McCormick states their standard bacon pieces are gluten-free, it’s still vital to check labels on packages for up-to-date allergen info.
Ingredients and production processes can change over time. The labels on a package purchased today will have the most accurate, current details for that particular item.
McCormick emphasizes this as well in their allergen statement:
“We encourage you to read the ingredient statement on your package at the time of purchase to ensure accurate, up to date information.”
So while McCormick’s site lists bacon pieces as gluten free, check your package too. Look at the ingredient list for any gluten sources like wheat.
Also see if the packaging specifically says “Gluten Free”. This term is voluntarily used by brands to highlight gluten-free status.
Best Practices for Avoiding Gluten
When buying any packaged product, following certain best practices can help identify potential gluten risks:
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Carefully read the entire ingredient list. Watch for obvious gluten sources like wheat, barley, rye.
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Check for less obvious sources too like malt, ceralsins, starch, natural flavors.
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Look for advisory labels like “May contain wheat” or “Made in a facility with wheat”.
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Only buy products marked “Gluten Free” when possible.
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Check manufacturer websites for allergen info if unsure.
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Call or email companies directly if still uncertain.
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When dining out, tell staff about dietary needs to ensure safety.
Following precautions like these makes living gluten-free much less stressful!
Other Bacon Bit Brands
While McCormick states their standard bacon pieces are gluten-free, other brands may differ. Always thoroughly check any bacon bits product before consuming.
For example, store brand bacon bits or generic brands likely have distinct ingredients. Certain flavors or varieties may contain gluten too.
Bacon bits from restaurant salad bars would need verification as well. Don’t assume safety without diligent inspection first.
Basically, bacon bits shouldn’t be considered gluten-free by default regardless of brand or source. Proper scrutiny is a must!
Enjoy Your Bacon Bits
In conclusion, McCormick has confirmed that their classic bacon flavored and applewood smoked bacon flavored bits are gluten-free and safe for those avoiding gluten.
But as always, dilig
BEST TASTING Bacon Flavored Bits – McCormick Culinary (13 oz ) REVIEW
FAQ
What are McCormick bacon pieces made of?
Do simulated bacon bits have gluten?
Are McCormick bacon pieces vegan?
Are McCormick bacon bits gluten free?
Mccormick Bacon Bits are gluten free. They are made with real bacon and natural flavors. The target is to satisfy the appetites of people who want a little something salty, sweet and savory in their breakfast or lunch. Reference: bacon bits target. Do bacon bits have gluten in them? Are McCormick bacon bits real? Is McCormick bacon bits vegan?
Is Bacon gluten-free?
Now, bacon is just raw or smoked pork belly that has been preserved. Unless gluten is added, bacon doesn’t usually contain gluten ingredients and can usually be considered gluten-free. However, for anyone wanting to be sure, the brands and varieties of bacon listed below are labeled or certified gluten-free.
Are McCormick flavored bits vegetarian?
Artificially flavored and textured to imitate bacon pieces are the perfect alternative for vegetarian dishes. McCormick Culinary® Bacon Flavored Bits will surprise and satisfy with beloved flavor and bacon-like texture: • McCormick Culinary Bacon Flavored Bits deliver on the true, smoky flavor of real bacon.
Are McCormick bacon bits vegan?
In an effort to appeal to vegan consumers, McCormick introduced the new vegan bacon bits in January 2014. As you can see from the picture, it’s not bacon, but it is meat-free. McCormick bacon bits are made from beef flavorings and are available in five flavors.