Is Spinach & Cheese Ravioli Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims on the front of the package and go straight to the ingredient label. For this Spinach & Cheese Ravioli, the verdict is clear: it contains gluten. The confusion often stems from the word 'organic,' but organic wheat is still wheat.

The primary culprit is found in the pasta dough itself. The ingredient list includes organic wheat flour and organic durum flour. Durum wheat is a specific variety of wheat often used to make traditional pasta because of its high protein content. However, because it is a wheat product, it contains significant amounts of gluten (specifically gliadin and glutenin proteins).

Additionally, the filling contains organic breadcrumb. Breadcrumbs are almost exclusively made from bread, which is a wheat product. Even if the pasta dough were hypothetically safe, the breadcrumbs mixed into the cheese filling would immediately contaminate the dish. It is also important to note for those with other allergies that this product contains milk and eggs in high quantities.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this ravioli offers a decent balance of macronutrients, though it is calorie-dense. A standard serving provides a moderate amount of protein derived from the blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. This makes it a satiating option compared to simple pasta with marinara sauce.

However, the sodium content is something to watch. With multiple cheeses and sea salt added to the dough and filling, the sodium levels can add up quickly, potentially meeting a large portion of your daily recommended limit in just one serving. The fat content is moderate, largely coming from the whole milk ricotta and canola oil. While it isn't a 'low-carb' food, it does provide energy, but it is best viewed as an indulgence rather than a diet staple.