Does 16 Bean Soup contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy, but it does contain gluten. The seasoning packet contains wheat and has a 'May Contain: Wheat' allergen warning.

Is 16 Bean Soup good for weight loss?

It can be, as beans are high in fiber and protein which keeps you full. However, you must account for the sugar and sodium in the seasoning packet, or use a low-sodium alternative.

Where can I buy 16 Bean Soup?

It is widely available at major grocery chains like Walmart, Kroger, and Safeway, as well as online retailers like Amazon.

Is 16 Bean Soup safe for kids?

Yes, generally, it is safe for kids. It contains no caffeine. However, the sodium content can be high, so you may want to use less of the seasoning packet or serve it with a glass of water.

Is 16 Bean Soup Gluten Free?

No, 16 Bean Soup is not gluten-free. While the base ingredients are naturally gluten-free beans and legumes, the included seasoning packet poses a significant risk for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The presence of wheat in the ingredients list and the 'May Contain' warning makes it unsafe for a strict gluten-free diet.

The Ingredient Breakdown

At first glance, a bag of mixed beans looks like the picture of health. You see Pinto Beans, Black Beans, Lentils, and Chickpeas. Individually, these legumes are naturally gluten-free powerhouses. The problem, however, lies in the convenience factor: the included seasoning packet. This is where the gluten hides.

Let's look at the seasoning ingredients: Dextrose, Maltodextrin, and Modified Food Starch. While these can be derived from corn, in the United States, maltodextrin is frequently derived from wheat. Even if the maltodextrin is corn-based, the label explicitly states "MAY CONTAIN: WHEAT". This is a critical warning. It indicates that the seasoning is processed on shared equipment or in a facility that also handles wheat products, leading to a high risk of cross-contamination. For anyone with Celiac disease, this warning is just as dangerous as an actual ingredient.

Furthermore, the seasoning contains Hydrolyzed Soy Protein and Oat Fiber. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are almost always contaminated with wheat unless specifically certified gluten-free. Without that certification, oat fiber is a red flag for gluten content. The combination of these ambiguous ingredients and the explicit cross-contamination warning confirms that this product does not meet gluten-free standards.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheat

Nutritional Value

When prepared according to package directions (usually with the addition of water and sometimes a ham hock or oil), a serving of 16 Bean Soup is quite nutrient-dense. It is an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and satiety. Because it relies on dried legumes, the glycemic index is relatively low compared to processed soups, providing a steady release of energy.

However, the seasoning packet significantly alters the nutritional profile. It adds sodium and sugar (via dextrose and corn syrup solids). If you are watching your blood pressure or sugar intake, you should be aware that the pre-mixed seasoning can contribute a substantial amount of both. To make this soup healthier, you might consider rinsing the beans thoroughly and using your own blend of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to control the sodium levels.