Is Veggies Made Great Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and straight at the formulation. Veggies Made Great has built a reputation for sneaking vegetables like zucchini and carrots into baked goods. However, when it comes to gluten-free status, the chemistry of the ingredients tells a complex story.

The primary flag in this formula is oats. The brand specifies they use certified gluten-free oats, which is a crucial distinction. In the United States, pure oats are naturally gluten-free. However, they are almost always processed on the same heavy machinery as wheat, barley, and rye. To be deemed "certified," these oats must be grown and segregated to prevent cross-contact. This is a positive sign.

However, the plot thickens with the inclusion of sorghum flour and brown rice flour. These are excellent, naturally gluten-free ancient grains that provide structure without gluten. The binder in this specific formulation relies heavily on egg whites and whole eggs, which creates a sturdy crumb without needing wheat protein.

The critical investigative finding lies in the facility, not just the ingredients. Veggies Made Great products are manufactured in a facility that also processes wheat. Even with certified oats, the air in the facility contains wheat flour particulates. For someone with a gluten sensitivity, this might pass unnoticed. For someone with Celiac disease, this level of cross-contamination is a medical risk.

Nutritional Value

While we are investigating gluten, we must also look at the nutritional profile. These products are marketed as "veggie" forward, but the macro-nutrient balance tells a different story. The inclusion of sugar and semi-sweet chocolate chips drives the carbohydrate count up significantly.

There is also canola oil present, which is a processed fat often used to keep costs down and texture moist. While not inherently dangerous, it is a highly refined oil. The soluble corn fiber is a positive addition, offering a prebiotic boost that aids digestion. However, the calorie density is relatively high for a product that implies a health halo. If you are managing weight, these should be treated as a treat or a snack, not a low-calorie diet staple.