Are Oscar Mayer Real Bacon Bits Gluten-Free?

Bacon bits are a popular way to add smoky, salty bacon flavor to salads, baked potatoes, pasta dishes, and more. But for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s important to find bacon bits that are certified gluten-free In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at whether one of the most popular brands of bacon bits, Oscar Mayer, offers any gluten-free options

Overview of Bacon Bits

Bacon bits are made from real bacon that has been cooked, crumbled into small pieces, and sometimes mixed with additional seasonings. The crumbled bacon is then dried and packaged to prolong shelf life This preservation process allows the bacon flavor to be conveniently used as a topping, without having to cook up whole slices of bacon

Bacon bits were invented in the 1950s and quickly became popular snack and salad bar staples. They are now widely available from most major bacon brands in both pork and turkey varieties.

Potential Sources of Gluten in Bacon Bits

While bacon itself does not naturally contain gluten, there are a few ways gluten can make its way into bacon bit products:

• Flour dusting: Some manufacturers dust slices of bacon with flour before cooking to prevent sticking. Traces of flour may remain on the bacon bits.

• Seasonings: Many bacon bits include additional seasonings beyond just bacon. These spice mixes could contain gluten-containing ingredients.

• Cross-contamination: Bacon bits are produced in large manufacturing facilities that also make other products. Gluten contamination could occur during processing.

So while bacon alone is gluten-free, the processing and added ingredients may introduce gluten into bacon bits. That’s why it’s important to look for certified gluten-free options if following a gluten-free diet.

Are Oscar Mayer Bacon Bits Gluten-Free?

Oscar Mayer is one of the largest and most widely available brands of bacon bits. The company produces both real bacon bits made from pork, as well as turkey bacon bits.

After thorough research, here is the gluten status of their various bacon bit products:

• Oscar Mayer Real Bacon Bits (pork): Not certified gluten-free. The ingredient list does not indicate any obvious sources of gluten, but cross-contamination is possible. Oscar Mayer states their products are not tested for gluten and they can’t confirm whether Real Bacon Bits are gluten-free.

• Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Bits: Not certified gluten-free. According to the company, they can’t confirm this product is gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination.

• Oscar Mayer Selects Uncured Bacon Bits: Certified gluten-free. This product is certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). It is made with uncured turkey and contains no gluten ingredients.

Other Brands of Gluten-Free Bacon Bits

In addition to the Oscar Mayer Selects certified gluten-free bacon bits, there are several other brands producing gluten-free bacon bits and bacon flavored toppings:

• Hormel Real Bacon Bits: Certified gluten-free by GFCO. Made from pork.

• Applegate Naturals Real Bacon Bits: Marked gluten-free on packaging. Made from pork.

• Armour Bacon Bits: According to the company, certified gluten-free. Pork-based.

• Better Than Bouillon Bacon Base: Labeled gluten-free. Made from reduced pork stock.

• McCormick Bac’n Pieces: Marked gluten-free on packaging. Pork-based.

• Bacos Bacon Flavored Bits: Not gluten-free due to added wheat flour.

As with any product marked gluten-free, it’s a good idea to periodically check the ingredients and manufacturing processes, as formulations can change over time. Reach out to the manufacturer if ever in doubt.

Tips for Safely Enjoying Bacon Bits on a Gluten-Free Diet

If you want to enjoy bacon bits, here are some tips for doing so safely on a gluten-free diet:

• Look for certified gluten-free bacon bits, and verify the certification periodically. GFCO, as well as Celiac Support Association, audit manufacturing facilities for gluten safety.

• If not certified gluten-free, check the ingredient list carefully for any sources of gluten like wheat, barley, rye or malt.

• Look for bacon bits made without many added seasonings or flavorings, as these simple options are less likely to include gluten.

• Consider making your own bacon bits at home by cooking and crumbling bacon slices. Add any desired gluten-free seasonings.

• When using bacon bits, handle them carefully to avoid cross-contact with other gluten-containing foods during storage and prep.

• If bacon bits will be served on a communal salad or appetizer platter, provide labeled designated serving utensils to prevent cross-contamination from other foods.

With so many gluten-free brands, as well as the option to make your own, there are plenty of ways to safely add bacon bits to your gluten-free diet. Be sure to use proper precautions, and look for the gluten-free logos from certification organizations you trust. Then enjoy those bacon bits to make salads, baked potatoes, and more deliciously smoky and salty!