Is Tazo Tea Wild Sweet Orange Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this tea is safe, we need to look at the specific botanicals used. The blend relies on LEMONGRASS, BLACKBERRY LEAVES, and ROSE HIPS as its primary base. These are naturally gluten-free plants. There are no grain additives used as fillers, which is often where gluten hides in processed foods.

A specific concern for some gluten-free dieters is LICORICE ROOT. While licorice root is a plant and naturally contains no gluten, it is sometimes processed in facilities that also handle wheat. However, Tazo is a major brand with strict allergen protocols. They label clearly if major allergens are present, and there is no indication of cross-contamination with wheat in this specific product.

The flavoring agents are also safe. The NATURAL FLAVOR and NATURAL ORANGE ESSENCE are derived from plant sources. Unlike some malt flavorings which are derived from barley and contain gluten, these essences are fruit-based. Finally, the color comes from TURMERIC and RIBOFLAVIN, both of which are safe, non-synthetic colorants that do not contain gluten.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Tazo Tea Wild Sweet Orange is essentially a zero-calorie beverage, provided you drink it without adding sweeteners. It contains no fat, no protein, and zero grams of sugar naturally. The HIBISCUS and GINGER ROOT provide antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health.

Because it is an herbal tea, it is caffeine-free, making it suitable for late-night drinking or for individuals sensitive to stimulants. It fits well into almost any diet plan, including Keto, Paleo, and Whole30, as it contains no processed carbohydrates or artificial sweeteners. The only thing to watch out for is the LICORICE ROOT, which can affect blood pressure in large quantities, but the amount in a tea bag is negligible for most healthy adults.