Is Mozzarella Style Slices Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing a product like Mozzarella Style Slices, the gluten-free status usually hinges on the starch source. Let's look at the specific ingredients provided: FILTERED WATER, COCONUT OIL, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, POTATO STARCH, SEA SALT, NATURAL FLAVOR (PLANT SOURCES), OLIVE EXTRACT, and BETA CAROTENE FOR COLOR.

The primary suspect here is MODIFIED FOOD STARCH. In the food industry, this term is a catch-all. If derived from wheat, it must be labeled as such due to allergen labeling laws. However, if it is derived from corn, potato, or tapioca, it is technically gluten-free. The problem is that without a 'gluten-free' certification on the package, we cannot guarantee the facility that processed this starch didn't handle wheat products, leading to potential cross-contamination.

Fortunately, the presence of POTATO STARCH is a good sign. Potato starch is naturally gluten-free and is often used as a primary binder in vegan cheeses. The combination of these starches suggests the manufacturer is likely aiming for a gluten-free formulation, but the ambiguous label on the modified starch keeps the verdict at 'maybe' for highly sensitive individuals.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Mozzarella Style Slices function similarly to other processed vegan cheeses. They are primarily composed of COCONUT OIL, which means they are high in saturated fats compared to dairy mozzarella. If you are monitoring your heart health or saturated fat intake, this is an important distinction to consider.

Regarding calories and sugar, these slices are generally low in sugar, which makes them a viable option for those on a low-carb or keto diet. However, because they lack the protein found in dairy cheese, they don't offer the same satiety. They fit well into a vegan diet for flavor and texture, but they shouldn't be relied upon as a protein source.