Is Blended Vanilla Low Fat Yogurt Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a product is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look beyond just the main ingredients. It is the additives and thickeners that often cause issues. For Blended Vanilla Low Fat Yogurt, the formula is surprisingly clean regarding gluten risks.

The primary thickening agent listed is modified corn starch. Unlike modified food starch, which can sometimes be derived from wheat (though usually processed to remove gluten), modified corn starch is exclusively derived from corn and is naturally gluten-free. This is a crucial distinction. The product also utilizes pectin and carob bean gum. Both are plant-based gums derived from fruit and seeds, respectively, and pose no gluten risk.

We also need to look at the flavoring agents. The natural flavors and caramel color are standard in the industry and are not typically associated with gluten sources. Finally, the product uses natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor. While natamycin is often used on cheese to prevent mold, it is applied to the surface and does not introduce gluten. There are no hydrolyzed wheat proteins or malt flavorings present.

Nutritional Value

While this yogurt is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals, it is important to look at the nutritional profile to see if it fits your dietary goals. The inclusion of sugar and fructose indicates that this is not a low-sugar option. For those managing blood sugar or following a keto diet, the combination of milk sugars and added sweeteners might be a concern.

Regarding fat content, the name Low Fat is accurate. It is made from grade A lowfat milk, making it a lighter option than full-fat Greek yogurts. However, the trade-off for lower fat is often higher sugar to maintain palatability. The addition of inulin (a prebiotic fiber) is a positive note, as it supports gut health alongside the live cultures found in the yogurt.