Does Au Jus Gravy Mix contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains both. It has wheat gluten (gluten) and nonfat dry milk (dairy). It also contains whey.

Is Au Jus Gravy Mix good for weight loss?

It is low in calories (approx. 15-20 per serving), but high in sodium and sugar. It may cause water retention and offers little satiety.

Where can I buy Au Jus Gravy Mix?

This mix is widely available at major grocery chains like Walmart, Kroger, and Target, as well as online retailers like Amazon.

Is Au Jus Gravy Mix safe for kids?

It is generally safe for children in moderation, but the high sodium content and artificial additives mean it should be an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.

Is Au Jus Gravy Mix Gluten Free?

No, Au Jus Gravy Mix is not gluten-free. Upon analyzing the ingredient label, we found multiple sources of gluten, including wheat gluten and hydrolyzed corn gluten. While it creates a rich, savory flavor for French dips, it is strictly off-limits for anyone with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims and go straight to the formulation. When we deconstruct the ingredients in this gravy mix, the gluten sources become immediately apparent. It is not a matter of cross-contamination; gluten is used as a functional ingredient in the recipe.

The primary red flag is the inclusion of WHEAT GLUTEN. This is a protein derived from wheat that provides elasticity and structure. In a gravy mix, it is often used to help thicken the liquid and provide a savory, chewy mouthfeel. Because it is pure wheat gluten, it contains a high load of the protein that triggers reactions in those with Celiac disease.

Additionally, the mix contains HYDROLYZED CORN GLUTEN and HYDROLYZED SOY PROTEIN. While corn and soy are naturally gluten-free grains, the term "hydrolyzed" means the protein chains have been broken down. While technically not containing the gluten protein, these are highly processed ingredients often derived from facilities that handle wheat. However, the presence of wheat gluten makes the final verdict definitive.

Finally, we must look at the stabilizers and flavor enhancers. The mix uses XANTHAN GUM, which is a gluten-free thickener, but it also contains MODIFIED TAPIOCA AND CORN STARCH. The concern here is that modified starches can sometimes be processed using equipment shared with wheat products. However, the explicit listing of WHEAT GLUTEN overrides any ambiguity regarding the starch sources.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheat

Nutritional Value

While the gluten content is the primary concern for safety, the nutritional profile of the Au Jus Gravy Mix is also worth noting for those monitoring their diet. A standard serving (prepared with water) is relatively low in calories, usually hovering around 15 to 20 calories per serving. However, these calories come almost entirely from carbohydrates and sodium.

The mix relies heavily on DEXTROSE (a form of sugar) and SALT for flavor. This results in a high sodium content, which is typical for processed soup and gravy mixes. If you are watching your blood pressure or sodium intake, this product is not a suitable option.

Regarding fats, the inclusion of BEEF FAT SHORTENING adds a small amount of saturated fat and cholesterol to the mix. While the amount per serving is low, it contributes to the overall "rich" flavor profile. It also contains NONFAT DRY MILK, making it a source of dairy. For those on a strict diet, this product is high in processed additives like CARAMEL COLOR and DISODIUM GUANYLATE, which are flavor enhancers but offer no nutritional benefit.