Does PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy ingredients, making it vegan. However, it is produced in a facility that uses wheat, so it cannot be considered gluten-free.

Is PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA good for weight loss?

It is calorie-dense due to the healthy fats in seeds and added sugars. While nutritious, the sugar content (from cane sugar and oat syrup) may hinder weight loss if portion sizes aren't strictly controlled.

Where can I buy PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA?

This product is generally available at major retailers like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and online through Amazon or the brand's direct website.

Is PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA safe for kids?

It is safe for kids as a snack, but parents should be aware of the added sugar content. It is also a choking hazard for very young children due to the hard, whole pumpkin seeds.

Is PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA Gluten Free?

No, PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA is not considered gluten-free. Despite containing healthy ingredients like pumpkin seeds and flax, the product is manufactured in a facility that processes wheat. This presents a significant cross-contamination risk for anyone with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the label of PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA, the primary concern for gluten-free diets lies in the manufacturing environment rather than the core ingredients themselves. The base of this granola is Whole grain rolled oats. Pure oats are naturally gluten-free, but they are notoriously difficult to harvest and process without coming into contact with wheat, barley, or rye. Because this specific product is not certified gluten-free, the oats used may not be purity protocol oats, meaning they could already contain trace amounts of gluten before they even enter the facility.

The most definitive red flag appears at the bottom of the ingredient list in the advisory statement: Produced in a facility that uses wheat. This indicates that wheat is present on the premises. In the world of food manufacturing, shared equipment and airborne flour particles are common. Even if a batch of granola doesn't include wheat as an ingredient, the likelihood of it containing gluten cross-contact is extremely high. Therefore, while the brown rice flour and flax seeds are safe, the overall product cannot be guaranteed safe for a gluten-free diet.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheat

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, PUMPKIN SEED + FLAX GRANOLA offers a mix of beneficial and concerning factors. On the positive side, it is a rich source of plant-based fats, specifically ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), thanks to the generous inclusion of flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. The label notes that a serving provides 700 mg of ALA, which covers 44% of the daily recommended value. This is excellent for heart health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the use of organic cane sugar and molasses provides a cleaner sweetener profile compared to high-fructose corn syrup, though they still contribute to the total sugar count.

However, consumers watching their sugar intake should be mindful. Ingredients like cane sugar and oat syrup solids add sweetness that can spike blood sugar levels if consumed in large quantities. While the soy oil provides necessary fat for texture, it is a processed oil that some health-conscious consumers prefer to limit. Overall, this granola fits well into a vegan or plant-based diet, but the sugar content means it should be eaten in moderation rather than as a 'free' health food.