Is Signature shredded steak & three-cheese chimichangas Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the classification of this product is straightforward based on the label. The defining factor for a chimichanga is the tortilla wrapper, and in this case, the wrapper is the primary source of gluten. The first ingredient listed is Wheat flour, which is explicitly enriched with niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. Wheat flour is the standard grain used for flour tortillas and is strictly prohibited on a gluten-free diet.

Furthermore, the ingredient list includes dough conditioners to improve the texture and rise of the wrapper. The specific components listed under dough conditioners include yeast, wheat gluten, sugar, and guar gum. The inclusion of wheat gluten is a secondary confirmation that wheat is a core structural component of this product. Even if the filling were gluten-free, the wrapper renders the entire item unsafe.

Regarding the filling, the cooked beef steak and the blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and low-moisture mozzarella cheeses are naturally gluten-free ingredients. However, processed meat fillings often contain thickeners. Here, modified corn starch is used, which is a gluten-free thickener. Despite the filling being largely safe, the presence of wheat in the wrapper is the dealbreaker.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Signature's shredded steak & three-cheese chimichangas are a calorie-dense, indulgent food. A single serving contains a significant amount of fat, largely derived from the frying process (vegetable oils) and the cheese blend. This contributes to a high caloric count, making it a heavy meal option rather than a light snack.

The product also contains a moderate amount of sodium, which is typical for frozen Mexican-style foods due to the cheese, beef flavor, and added salt. Additionally, the presence of modified corn starch and sugar in the dough conditioners adds to the total carbohydrate count. While it provides a satisfying source of protein from the beef and cheese, it lacks the fiber found in whole-grain alternatives. It fits into a diet only as an occasional treat due to the high fat and sodium levels.