Does Mozzarella Style Sticks contain dairy or gluten?

No, they contain neither. They are made with chickpea protein and coconut oil instead of dairy, and rice flour instead of wheat.

Is Mozzarella Style Sticks good for weight loss?

They are high in calories and fat, so they are not ideal for a calorie-restricted weight loss plan, though the protein content can help with satiety.

Where can I buy Mozzarella Style Sticks?

They are widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and online via Amazon.

Is Mozzarella Style Sticks safe for kids?

Yes, they are generally safe for kids. They contain no caffeine or major allergens like dairy or nuts (check specific brands for cross-contamination warnings).

Is Mozzarella Style Sticks Gluten Free?

Yes, Mozzarella Style Sticks are gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list, the breading relies on rice flour rather than wheat, making them a safe option for those avoiding gluten. Here is a detailed breakdown of why these vegan cheese sticks pass the gluten test.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is safe for a gluten-free diet, the devil is in the details—specifically the breading and binding agents. For these Mozzarella Style Sticks, the manufacturer has opted for a Rice flour based system rather than traditional wheat flour. The breading ingredients list Panko bread crumb, but crucially, the source specified is rice flour and pea protein, completely omitting wheat, barley, or rye.

The "cheese" portion of the stick is also naturally safe. The base consists of filtered water, coconut oil, and chickpea protein. Unlike dairy mozzarella, which is naturally gluten-free, vegan cheese alternatives sometimes use oat flour or wheat-derived starches as thickeners. However, this specific formula utilizes potato starch, modified corn starch, and tapioca starch. These are all standard gluten-free carbohydrates used to create the melty texture without introducing gluten proteins.

Finally, the dipping sauce is also safe. The marinara-style sauce relies on tomato paste, cane sugar, and modified potato starch. There are no hidden sources of gluten, such as hydrolyzed wheat protein or barley malt, often found in soy sauce-based dips. While the ingredients are clean regarding gluten, it is worth noting the presence of xanthan gum and modified starches, which are highly processed additives used to stabilize the texture.

Nutritional Value

While these sticks are safe for your gluten sensitivity, they are still a calorie-dense, fried food product. The primary source of calories comes from the coconut oil and vegetable oil used in both the cheese matrix and the frying process. This results in a high saturated fat content, which is something to monitor if you are watching your heart health.

In terms of macronutrients, the chickpea protein and pea protein provide a decent protein punch, making them more satiating than a carb-only snack. However, the cane sugar in the dipping sauce and the dextrose in the breading contribute to the total carbohydrate count. If you are on a strict Keto or low-carb diet, the starches from potato and tapioca might push your limits. For the average person, these fit well as an indulgent treat, but they shouldn't replace whole-food sources of protein and fiber in your daily diet.