Is Hand tied frozen garlic knots Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the source of the flour first. The primary ingredient in these knots is enriched wheat flour. This is standard bread flour derived from wheat, which contains gluten proteins (gliadin and glutenin). It is the absolute foundation of the product, meaning it is not a gluten-free item.

What makes this product particularly risky for those with high sensitivity is the inclusion of rye flour and malted barley flour. Rye is a distinct gluten-containing grain, and barley is another major source. The presence of these three specific grains (wheat, rye, barley) creates a triple threat for anyone requiring a strict gluten-free diet.

Additionally, the dough conditioners list l-cysteine. While this can be derived from various sources, in conventional baking, it is often animal-derived or synthesized. However, the main concern remains the flour blend. The spread also contains nonfat dry milk and whey, so this product is also not dairy-free.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, these garlic knots are a calorie-dense carbohydrate source. A single serving contains a significant amount of carbohydrates derived primarily from the refined wheat flour. This results in a high glycemic load, which can spike blood sugar levels quickly.

The fat content is notable due to the combination of soybean oil, palm oil, and hydrogenated cottonseed oil. While fats are necessary for energy, the presence of hydrogenated oils suggests the presence of trans fats, which should be limited in a heart-healthy diet. The sodium content is also elevated due to the added salt and parmesan cheese, which is typical for savory bread products but something to watch if you are monitoring blood pressure.