Is Strawberry Coconut Walking Tamales Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I scrutinize every label to ensure safety for those with dietary restrictions. When examining the ingredients for Strawberry Coconut Walking Tamales, the foundation of the product is Corn Flour. Unlike wheat flour, corn is naturally gluten-free, making it the standard base for safe tamales. The primary filling consists of Pinto Beans and Garbanzo Beans, both of which are legumes and entirely free of gluten. The flavor profile is driven by Water, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and a robust blend of spices including Guajillo Pepper, Chile de Arbol, Pasilla Pepper, Onion Powder, and Garlic Powder. These are all pure spices and pose no gluten risk. Even the acidity regulator, Baking Soda, is safe. There are no thickeners, flavorings, or fillers derived from wheat listed here.

However, it is crucial to note the presence of Tomato and Tomato Paste. While tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, processed tomato products can sometimes be subject to cross-contamination if processed on shared equipment with gluten-containing foods. That said, given the "Gluten-Free" verdict provided for this specific product, the manufacturer has likely verified that their tomato supply chain is safe. There are no red flags in this ingredient list.

Nutritional Value

Walking Tamales are designed as a convenient snack, and the nutritional profile reflects a balance of carbohydrates and fats. The Calories are primarily derived from the Corn Flour (carbohydrates) and the Extra Virgin Olive Oil (healthy fats). The inclusion of beans adds a significant amount of Fiber and plant-based Protein, which helps with satiety. The Sugar content is likely moderate, coming naturally from the corn and the strawberry flavoring, but it is generally lower than standard processed snacks. The Sodium levels come from the Sea Salt and the spices; while present, it is typical for savory snacks. If you are on a low-fat diet, the olive oil content is something to monitor, though it is a heart-healthy fat source. Overall, it fits well into a balanced diet as a substantial snack rather than a light treat.