Is Beyond Burger Plant-Based Patties Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is truly gluten-free, we look beyond the obvious and into the additives and protein sources. Beyond Meat relies on a blend of plant proteins rather than gluten-containing grains. The primary protein sources are Yellow Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Red Lentil Protein, and Faba Bean Protein. None of these legumes or grains naturally contain gluten.

For binding, the patty uses Methylcellulose and Potato Starch. Methylcellulose is a plant-derived thickener that is chemically inert and gluten-free, serving the same structural purpose that gluten often provides in meat products. The fats come from Avocado Oil, which is a heart-healthy fat free from allergens.

Where does the flavor come from? The savory taste profile is achieved through Natural Flavors, Apple Extract, and Pomegranate Concentrate. While "Natural Flavors" can sometimes be a gray area, in this context, they are derived from vegetable sources. The color comes from Vegetable Juice Color (with Beet), eliminating the need for any wheat-based colorants.

Nutritional Value

While the Beyond Burger is gluten-free, it is important to understand its nutritional profile. A standard patty contains roughly 230 calories, primarily from fat and protein. The fat content is high (14g), largely due to the Avocado Oil. While this is a better fat profile than the saturated fats found in beef, it is still calorie-dense.

The protein content is substantial at 20 grams, which is excellent for a plant-based meal. However, the sodium content is something to watch; a patty contains approximately 390mg of sodium. If you are on a low-sodium diet, this represents about 17% of your daily limit. There is minimal sugar (less than 1g), making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets, provided the bun choice is also compliant.