Is Bertolli Marinara Sauce Gluten Free? The Complete Guide

Are you a fan of Italian cuisine but have to avoid gluten?

It can be a challenge to find safe and delicious options, especially when it comes to sauces.

Bertolli is a popular brand known for its pasta sauces, frozen meals, and cooking oils.

But is their marinara sauce gluten-free?

The answer may not be as straightforward as you think.

In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients in Bertolli’s marinara sauce and what you need to know before adding it to your gluten-free menu.

So grab a bowl of your favorite pasta and let’s dive in!

Is Bertolli Marinara Sauce Gluten Free?

Bertolli’s marinara sauce is a classic Italian sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. While it may seem like a simple recipe, the ingredients used in the sauce can vary from brand to brand.

When it comes to gluten, Bertolli states that any product containing gluten will have that ingredient listed on the label. This means that if there is wheat or another gluten-containing ingredient in the marinara sauce, it will be clearly stated on the label.

However, Bertolli does not keep a list of gluten-free products, nor do they test for trace amounts of gluten. This means that while the marinara sauce may not contain any gluten ingredients, there is a possibility of cross-contamination during production.

It’s important to note that even trace amounts of gluten can be harmful to those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Therefore, it’s essential to read the label carefully and make an informed decision before consuming any product.

Understanding Gluten And Gluten-Free Diets

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It’s what gives dough its elasticity and helps it rise. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, consuming gluten can cause serious health problems.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. This can lead to malnutrition, anemia, and other serious health problems. Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, causes similar symptoms but does not damage the small intestine.

For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, following a gluten-free diet is essential. This means avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley, and rye, as well as any foods that may have come into contact with these grains during production.

When it comes to packaged foods like Bertolli marinara sauce, it’s important to read the label carefully. If the label does not explicitly state that the product is gluten-free, there is a chance that it may contain trace amounts of gluten or may have come into contact with gluten during production.

Bertolli Marinara Sauce Ingredients

The ingredients in Bertolli’s Traditional Marinara Sauce include tomato puree (water, tomato paste), diced tomatoes, tomato juice, onions, olive oil, sugar, salt, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, spices, calcium chloride, and citric acid.

Based on these ingredients, Bertolli’s marinara sauce does not contain any gluten ingredients. However, as mentioned earlier, there is a possibility of cross-contamination during production.

It’s also worth noting that the sauce contains calcium chloride and citric acid. While these ingredients are not sources of gluten themselves, they can be derived from sources that may contain gluten. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious when consuming products containing these ingredients if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Potential Sources Of Gluten Contamination

While Bertolli’s marinara sauce does not contain any gluten ingredients, there is still a possibility of cross-contamination during the production process. This can occur when the sauce is made in a facility that also processes wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.

Additionally, some of Bertolli’s other pasta sauces, such as the “Alfredo with Aged Parmesan Sauce,” do contain gluten ingredients like rye and wheat. It’s important to carefully read the label of any Bertolli product to ensure that it is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

To further mitigate the risk of gluten contamination, Bertolli regularly has their products third-party tested and certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). However, it’s important to note that this certification does not guarantee 100% gluten-free products, as there is always a possibility of cross-contamination.

Bertolli’s Gluten-Free Certification

Unfortunately, Bertolli does not have a gluten-free certification program. This means that while they do not use gluten-containing ingredients in their marinara sauce, they do not have a third-party certification to guarantee that the product is completely gluten-free.

However, Bertolli does provide guidance on their website for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities. They advise consumers to carefully read the ingredient list on the label and to avoid products that contain any ingredients they are allergic to. Additionally, Bertolli has a guide on their website to help consumers understand how to read labels and identify potential allergens or gluten-containing ingredients.

Ultimately, while Bertolli’s marinara sauce may be safe for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities, it is important to exercise caution and read the label carefully before consuming any product. It’s also important to note that while Bertolli does not test for trace amounts of gluten, they do state that any products containing gluten will be clearly labeled as such.

Other Gluten-Free Marinara Sauce Options

If you’re looking for other gluten-free marinara sauce options, there are plenty of brands to choose from.

One popular brand is Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce, which is made with high-quality ingredients and contains no added sugars or preservatives. Another great option is Vero Gusto by Barilla, which uses vine-ripened tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

For those who are looking for a healthier option, Primal Kitchen Tomato Basil Marinara is a great choice. It’s made with organic ingredients, including California-grown tomatoes, and contains no added sugars or artificial ingredients.

If you’re looking for a traditional marinara sauce, Paesana Traditional Marinara Sauce is a great option. It’s made with all-natural ingredients, including imported Italian tomatoes, and contains no preservatives or artificial flavors.

Lastly, Fody Premium Marinara Sauce is a great option for those who have dietary restrictions. It’s not only gluten-free but also low in FODMAPs, making it safe for those with IBS or other digestive issues.

Conclusion: Is Bertolli Marinara Sauce Safe For A Gluten-Free Diet?

Based on the information provided by Bertolli, their marinara sauce does not contain any gluten ingredients. However, as they do not test for trace amounts of gluten or keep a list of gluten-free products, there is a possibility of cross-contamination during production.

If you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it’s important to be cautious and read the label carefully before consuming any product. While Bertolli’s marinara sauce may be safe for some individuals following a gluten-free diet, it may not be suitable for others who are more sensitive to trace amounts of gluten.