Does TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy, but it likely contains gluten due to the dried soy sauce in the vegetable broth.

Is TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans good for weight loss?

It can be, as beans are high in fiber. However, watch the sodium and added sugars in the broth.

Where can I buy TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans?

This product is typically available at major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Amazon.

Is TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for kids, though the spice level from the jalapeno pepper might be too high for toddlers.

Is TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans Gluten Free?

Is TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans gluten free? The direct answer is MAYBE. While the primary ingredients like pinto beans and tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, a specific ingredient in the seasoning mix raises a red flag for those with Celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance. Here is the detailed breakdown of why you might need to be cautious with this specific canned bean product.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing a product like TEX-MEX Style Pinto Beans, the base ingredients are usually safe. Pinto Beans, Tomato Puree, Capsicum, and Onion are all naturally free of gluten. However, as a food scientist, I look at the processing and flavor enhancers, which is where the risk lies.

The primary culprit here is the Vegetable Broth. This specific ingredient contains dried soy sauce. Standard soy sauce is brewed using wheat, making it a definite source of gluten. Unless the label explicitly states 'Tamari' or 'Gluten-Free Soy Sauce,' the inclusion of dried soy sauce in the broth makes the final product unsafe for a strict gluten-free diet.

Additionally, the Maltodextrin listed in the broth is a red flag. While maltodextrin in the US is usually derived from corn and is gluten-free, it can be derived from wheat. Without a 'gluten-free' certification on the package, the source of the maltodextrin is ambiguous. Finally, Artificial Flavor is a vague term that can sometimes hide gluten-derived compounds used as carriers.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

soy sauce

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, pinto beans are a powerhouse, offering high fiber and protein. However, the addition of Cane Sugar, Dextrose, and Salt in the broth and seasoning mix alters the profile. The product likely contains moderate sodium levels due to the salt and soy sauce.

If you are monitoring your sugar intake, note that the Dextrose and Cane Sugar add a small amount of simple carbohydrates. While not a 'high sugar' product compared to desserts, it does contribute to your daily limit. The fat content is generally low, relying on Sunflower Oil and Soybean Oil for mouthfeel, which keeps the calorie count reasonable for a side dish.