A gluten-free diet eliminates those foods containing gluten (a protein in wheat and other cereals). Anyone can choose to be gluten-free, but a strict gluten-free diet is only recommended for people with celiac disease, allergies, or intolerances.
A study shows that gluten-related issues affect less than 1% of the population in the United States. However, despite such a low percentage of the occurrence. The consumption of gluten-free foods is constantly increasing.
Choosing to be gluten-free means identifying alternatives and brands you can trust. One common food that gluten-free followers need to think about is beans.
There are more than 400 different kinds of beans, and all of them don’t have gluten when they’re in their natural state. Nevertheless, some bean products may contain gluten-containing additives or cross-contaminate with gluten. Even though beans don’t have gluten, you might want to read the labels when you buy a can of baked beans.
Baked beans are a beloved side dish, adding protein, fiber and hearty flavor to any meal. But for those avoiding gluten the safety of baked beans may seem questionable. After all beans commonly sit alongside wheat and other grains on grocery store shelves.
So do baked beans naturally contain gluten? Or is it added during processing? Let’s clear up the confusion on beans and explore some tips for choosing truly gluten-free baked bean options
The Scoop on Beans and Gluten
Beans themselves are naturally gluten-free. Legumes like navy, pinto and cannellini beans grow in pods on bushy plants, bearing no relation to wheat or gluten grains. Regardless of the bean variety, the bean itself does not contain gluten.
However just because a food is naturally gluten-free does not mean it can’t become contaminated. In the journey from farm to table beans may encounter gluten in several ways
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Cross-contamination in Growing – Beans can be rotationally farmed with wheat, allowing gluten transfer through shared equipment.
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Cross-contamination in Processing – Shared equipment and facilities create risk for contact with gluten-containing foods.
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Added Ingredients in Canning/Cooking – Baked beans often have other ingredients added like sweeteners, spices and preservatives that may contain gluten.
So while the beans themselves are gluten-free, precautions need to be taken to choose uncontaminated products and recipes. Let’s explore some tips:
Tips for Finding Truly Gluten-Free Baked Bean Options
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Check Labels on Canned Baked Beans
When buying pre-made canned baked beans, diligently read the ingredient list for any questionable additions. Some red flags include:
- Hydrolyzed wheat protein
- Malt flavoring/extract
- Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (may contain barley)
- Liquid smoke flavoring
If an ingredient seems risky, contact the manufacturer to inquire about their processing practices.
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Look for Labeled or Certified Gluten-Free
Seek out canned baked beans that are specifically labeled “gluten-free”. This indicates the company has taken measures to avoid cross-contamination.
Certain brands like Bush’s Best Baked Beans are labeled gluten-free, noting their facilities have dedicated equipment.
Or choose certified gluten-free canned beans, like those from Eden Foods. This provides added assurance that products are rigorously tested.
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Make Baked Beans from Scratch
For the most control, make homemade baked beans using gluten-free ingredients. Start with dried beans and avoid potential cross-contact from canned products.
Check this recipe for guidance on making gluten-free baked beans from scratch.
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Use Caution with Bean Flours
While whole beans are gluten-free, flours made from beans have higher risk of contamination during processing. Opt for whole bean forms over bean flour, powder or protein isolate.
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Contact Manufacturers with Questions
If uncertain about an ingredient or a product’s processing, reach out to the manufacturer directly. Most are happy to verify their approach to avoiding cross-contact. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
What About Restaurants and Baked Beans?
Dining out with gluten-free needs can certainly be tricky. So what about ordering baked beans in restaurants? Here are some tips:
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Ask about how the beans are prepared and what is added to the recipe.
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Request beans without any added sauce or liquid smoke flavoring. Stick to plain versions.
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Avoid baked bean dishes with crumbled bread or wheat-based toppings.
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Check that cooking equipment and surfaces are properly cleaned before preparing your order.
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Let your server know you have a gluten allergy/sensitivity and the importance of avoiding cross-contact.
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Be aware that even plain canned beans may be contaminated in kitchens lacking dedicated prep areas. Higher risk of cross-contact exists.
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Choose certified gluten-free restaurants for safest odds, though bean options may be limited.
Being upfront about your gluten-free needs and asking questions is key to getting a safe meal. But there will always be increased risk eating out versus preparing your own baked beans at home.
Easy Gluten-Free Baked Bean Recipes
If you want 100% control over ingredients, whipping up baked beans at home is a tasty option. Try these delicious gluten-free recipes:
Simple Stovetop Baked Beans
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
- 6 ounces smoked ham, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce (gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mustard (gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
Rinse soaked beans. Combine with remaining ingredients in a pot and add enough water to cover beans by 2 inches. Simmer on stove 2-3 hours until beans are tender, adding more water as needed.
Slow Cooker Baked Beans
- 1 pound dried white beans, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
Add all ingredients to a slow cooker except bacon. Cover with water by 2 inches. Cook on low 8-10 hours. Stir in bacon just before serving.
Oven-Baked Beans
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Preheat oven to 300°F. Combine soaked, drained beans with remaining ingredients in a casserole dish. Add enough water to cover beans by 1 inch. Cover and bake 3-4 hours until thickened, stirring occasionally.
The Takeaway on Baked Beans and Gluten
While beans themselves are naturally gluten-free, the journey from field to table introduces risks of contamination for sensitive individuals. But with proper precautions – checking labels, using certified brands, and preparing from scratch – baked beans can absolutely be enjoyed on a gluten-free diet.
With so many tasty recipes, there’s no need to miss out on these protein and fiber-filled legumes. Baked beans can be a flavorful, gluten-free addition to any summer BBQ or hearty winter stew. Just be sure to review ingredients lists and opt for homemade when possible.
So savor those savory, saucy beans without fear. A satisfying gluten-free side dish is only a few precautions away.
B&M Baked Beans
B B & M Baked Beans are gluten-free as well. This brand is different because it has many kinds of baked beans, such as the traditional B
The pea bean, often known as the navy bean, is used in B & M Baked Beans. Besides that, B
Amy’s Kitchen offers many gluten-free products, including gluten-free baked beans. Organic white beans, tomato puree, mustard seed, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup are all mixed together in their traditional baked bean recipe. The brand also has a range of vegetarian and vegan baked beans that are gluten-free as well.
Amy’s Kitchen baked beans contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. The baked beans are also dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, tree nut-free, and kosher. However, their baked beans contain grain-based vinegar. Be cautious if you are sensitive to grain-based vinegar.
Nuts. com offers hundreds of options for gluten-free products. For example, their baked beans meet the stringent standards set for gluten-free products. Moreover, their certified gluten-free baked beans are handled on a dedicated gluten-free production line to prevent cross-contamination.
Do Baked Beans Have Gluten in Them?
Commercially canned baked beans probably have gluten in them because they have things like liquid smoke and distilled vinegar that are glutenous.
According to the FDA guideline, a gluten-free product must have less than 20 ppm (parts per million) of gluten. Unfortunately, not all baked beans are safe for gluten-sensitive people. But you can find certified gluten-free canned baked beans to ensure that your baked beans contain no gluten.
Baked beans may not be gluten-free, depending on the brand and the recipe. For example, baked beans made with sweetening sauces often contain gluten. That said, cross-contamination during processing and packaging can also lead to gluten-contaminated baked beans.
If you’re not severely intolerant to gluten, a minute amount won’t cause any harm. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry when purchasing canned baked beans.
The problem is, you will have to add some ingredients while baking something. And there’s a strong chance that it might contain gluten. Therefore, ensure not to add an ingredient that contains gluten whenever you decide to make baked beans. Also, be very careful with baked beans that have semolina, soy sauce, spices, miso, or other foods that contain gluten or other problematic stabilizers.
The safest way to buy canned baked beans is to find those with a “certified gluten-free” label. Because of this label, the baked beans are safe for people who don’t eat gluten because it shows that they’ve met FDA standards. It’s better to spend more on high-quality gluten-free goods because they are less likely to be tainted with gluten.
Are Baked Beans Gluten And Wheat Free
FAQ
Do Bush’s baked beans have gluten?
Do canned baked beans contain gluten?
Which canned beans are gluten-free?
Do baked beans have flour in them?
Can you eat baked beans with gluten?
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, consuming baked beans with gluten could trigger adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal issues or inflammation. 7.
Are beans gluten free?
Beans should be gluten free, since they do not contain any wheat gluten. However, it is important to read labels, especially for canned beans because there might be additives that add gluten. Some of the additives to look out for are wheat starch, wheat flour, or any other wheat additives that could contain gluten. Your best bet is to look for canned beans labelled gluten free. Dry beans can also become contaminated with gluten if there is any cross-contamination with wheat during processing. The best bet is to wash beans before use, this should get rid of any potential gluten on dry beans.
How to choose gluten-free baked beans?
To choose gluten-free baked beans, you need to read the labels. Avoid protein additives like wheat, seitan, TVP, and hydrolyzed plant protein. Texture additives like flour, vegetable gum, and starches should also be avoided.
Are canned baked beans gluten-free?
While most canned baked beans are gluten-free, it’s important to check the label for any added ingredients that may contain gluten. 2. Can homemade baked beans be made gluten-free? Yes, homemade baked beans can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free ingredients and avoiding any additives that contain gluten.