Is Organic Thin-Sliced 22 Whole Grains & Seeds Bread Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims of '22 Whole Grains & Seeds' and go straight to the ingredient label. The verdict is clear: this product is a gluten-containing loaf through and through. The very first ingredient is Whole wheat flour, followed shortly by Wheat gluten. This establishes wheat as the primary structural component.

The danger for those avoiding gluten, however, extends beyond just wheat. This bread explicitly lists Barley, Rye, and Triticale in its ingredient deck. These are the three primary gluten-containing grains alongside wheat. While these grains add a complex, nutty flavor profile and nutritional density, they make the bread strictly off-limits for a gluten-free diet.

There is also a hidden risk in the Oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are almost always processed on the same equipment as wheat, barley, and rye. Unless the oats are certified gluten-free (which this product does not claim), they are highly likely to be cross-contaminated with gluten particles during harvesting or milling.

Finally, the ingredient Cultured Wheat Starch is often used in organic baking as a natural preservative. While the fermentation process may reduce the FODMAP content (making it potentially easier to digest for some with IBS), it does not remove the gluten proteins that cause issues for Celiacs. This is a nutrient-dense bread, but it is absolutely not a safe option for gluten avoidance.

Nutritional Value

Nutritionally, this bread is a powerhouse, but it comes with a caloric density that is worth noting. A single slice typically contains around 110 calories, which is higher than a standard white bread but expected given the heavy inclusion of seeds and whole grains. The fat content is driven by healthy sources like flaxseed, sunflower seeds, and soybean oil, providing a decent profile of unsaturated fats.

The carbohydrate count is significant, sitting at roughly 16-18 grams per slice. However, a large portion of this is fiber, thanks to the rye, flaxmeal, and whole wheat. This helps moderate the glycemic impact, though the addition of cane sugar does spike the glycemic load slightly. For those on a strict weight loss regimen, the calorie density means portion control is essential; two slices can easily approach 220 calories before you even add toppings.