Does CHEDDAR BROCCOLI contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains both. It has wheat flour (gluten) and multiple dairy ingredients including whey, milk, and cheddar cheese.

Is CHEDDAR BROCCOLI good for weight loss?

No, it is calorie-dense due to palm oil and cheese, and contains added sugars which can hinder weight loss efforts.

Where can I buy CHEDDAR BROCCOLI?

This product is widely available at major grocery chains, big-box stores like Walmart, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is CHEDDAR BROCCOLI safe for kids?

While it does not contain caffeine, it is high in sodium and MSG, which some parents prefer to limit in their children's diet.

Is CHEDDAR BROCCOLI Gluten Free?

No, CHEDDAR BROCCOLI is not gluten-free. A close look at the ingredient list confirms the presence of wheat flour, which makes this product unsafe for anyone with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Beyond gluten, this product is also highly processed and contains dairy and MSG.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the safety of a processed food like CHEDDAR BROCCOLI, we have to look beyond the marketing and straight at the label. The primary concern for gluten-free diets is the presence of wheat, barley, or rye. In this specific product, the verdict is clear due to one specific ingredient.

The first red flag is wheat flour. This is a direct source of gluten. It is used here as a thickening agent or to provide texture to the rice and pasta mix. For individuals with Celiac disease, even trace amounts of wheat flour can trigger an immune response, making this product strictly off-limits.

Additionally, this product contains multiple dairy derivatives. You will see whey, nonfat dry milk, parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese listed. This means the product is high in lactose and milk proteins, posing a risk for those with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. It is a 'double whammy' for those avoiding both gluten and dairy.

Finally, we see a heavy reliance on flavor enhancers. Ingredients like monosodium glutamate (MSG), autolyzed yeast extract, and natural flavor are used to mimic a homemade taste. While MSG is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, many people prefer to avoid it due to sensitivity concerns. The inclusion of modified corn starch suggests the manufacturer is using processed starches to create the sauce consistency rather than whole foods.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheat

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, CHEDDAR BROCCOLI is a calorie-dense, nutrient-poor food. A standard serving contains a significant amount of sodium, largely derived from the salt, cheeses, and MSG. If you are monitoring your blood pressure or sodium intake, this meal is not a suitable choice.

Regarding carbohydrates, the base is long grain rice, which is a standard starch. However, the addition of corn syrup solids and sugar adds unnecessary empty calories. This spikes the glycemic index of the meal, making it less ideal for those managing diabetes or looking for sustained energy.

While the label lists dried broccoli, spinach, and onions, the quantity is likely minimal compared to the rice, oil, and cheese sauce base. It does not count as a significant vegetable serving. The fat content is driven by palm oil and canola oil, contributing to the overall calorie count without providing substantial nutritional benefit.