Andy Montoya
Bear Creek soup is a popular choice for those seeking a quick, hearty meal. The company offers a range of soup mixes, including the well-loved Cheddar Broccoli variety, which has received praise for its smooth and creamy texture. With a blend of cheeses, broccoli, and seasonings, this soup is often compared to homemade recipes. However, some may be unsure if this convenient option is suitable for gluten-free diets. So, is Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup gluten-free?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Modified corn starch, corn syrup solids, whey, palm oil, broccoli (dried ingredients), salt, maltodextrin, onion (dried ingredients), natural and artificial flavors, monosodium glutamate, dipotassium phosphate, sodium caseinate, mono and diglycerides, sea salt, parsley, xanthan gum, cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes), disodium phosphate, disodium inosinate, disodium guanylate, worcestershire sauce (dried ingredients), blue cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes), yellow 5, yellow 6, yeast extract, spice, annatto extract (color), chicken fat, turmeric extract (color) |
| Warnings | Contains milk |
| Gluten-Free Status | Unclear |
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What You'll Learn
Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup ingredients
Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup is a convenient and tasty option for those seeking a quick and easy meal with a homemade feel. While the soup is well-liked by many, some have criticised its price and sodium content. The soup is also not gluten-free.
The soup is described as thick and creamy, with a rich blend of cheeses, broccoli, and seasonings. The Bear Creek Soup Mix can be used to make the soup, which is available in 11.2-ounce packs of 6. The mix includes dried broccoli, so you don't have to worry about adding any extra. However, some people like to add fresh broccoli to the soup for added texture and flavour.
To prepare the soup, simply bring 8 cups of water to a boil, whisk in the soup mix, and simmer for about 10 minutes. You can also add chicken, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavour and variety.
- Modified corn starch
- Corn syrup solids/corn syrup (dried)
- Whey
- Palm oil
- Broccoli (dried)
- Salt
- Maltodextrin
- Onion (dried)
- Natural and artificial flavours
- Monosodium glutamate
- Dipotassium phosphate
- Sodium caseinate
- Mono and diglycerides
- Sea salt
- Parsley
- Xanthan gum
- Cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes)
- Disodium phosphate
- Disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate
- Worcestershire sauce (dried) (distilled vinegar, molasses, salt, caramel colour, garlic (dried), sugar, spices, tamarind, natural flavour, corn syrup)
- Blue cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes)
- Yellow 5
- Yellow 6
- Yeast extract
- Spice
- Annatto extract (colour)
- Chicken fat (dried)
- Turmeric extract (colour)
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Gluten-containing ingredients
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale (a cross between wheat and rye). It is important to avoid gluten-containing ingredients if you have coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. The Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup mix appears to be gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or triticale ingredients.
However, it is always essential to read the ingredient list and check for any gluten-containing ingredients, as manufacturers may change their recipes or use different ingredients in various regions. Here is a detailed list of the ingredients in Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup, with a focus on identifying any potential gluten-containing ingredients:
- Modified cornstarch: Cornstarch is typically gluten-free, and the modification process does not involve gluten. However, there may be a risk of gluten cross-contamination during the manufacturing process, so it is essential to look for certified gluten-free cornstarch if you are highly sensitive to gluten.
- Corn syrup solids/Corn syrup: Corn syrup is made from cornstarch and should be naturally gluten-free. However, read the labels carefully, as some brands may contain gluten-containing ingredients or be at risk of gluten cross-contamination.
- Whey: Whey is derived from milk and is inherently gluten-free. However, some whey products may contain gluten-containing additives or be contaminated with gluten during processing, especially if derived from grain-fed cows.
- Palm oil: Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of oil palm trees and is naturally gluten-free.
- Broccoli (dried): Broccoli is a type of vegetable that is inherently gluten-free.
- Salt: Salt, including sea salt, is gluten-free and safe for coeliacs and gluten-intolerant individuals.
- Maltodextrin: Maltodextrin can be derived from various sources, including corn, rice, potato, or wheat. When derived from wheat, it contains gluten. Look for products that specifically use gluten-free maltodextrin or specify a gluten-free source, such as corn or rice.
- Onion (dried): Onions are naturally gluten-free.
- Natural and artificial flavors: Flavors can sometimes contain gluten, but in the US, if a product is labelled gluten-free, the flavours used must also be gluten-free.
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG): MSG is usually made from wheat starch but is highly processed, and the gluten is generally removed. However, there may be a risk of gluten cross-contamination, so some individuals sensitive to gluten may react to it.
- Dipotassium phosphate: Dipotassium phosphate is gluten-free and safe for consumption by gluten-intolerant individuals.
- Sodium caseinate: Sodium caseinate is derived from milk and is inherently gluten-free.
- Mono and diglycerides: Mono and diglycerides can be derived from various sources, including soy, corn, or wheat. When derived from wheat, they may contain gluten. Look for products that specify the source of mono and diglycerides to ensure they are gluten-free.
- Parsley: Parsley is a herb that is naturally gluten-free.
- Xanthan gum: Xanthan gum is typically derived from fermented sugars, such as glucose or sucrose, and is considered gluten-free.
- Cheddar cheese: Cheese, including cheddar cheese, is made from milk and is inherently gluten-free. However, some processed cheese products may contain gluten-containing additives, so it is important to read labels carefully.
- Disodium phosphate: Disodium phosphate is gluten-free and safe for consumption.
- Disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate: These ingredients are typically gluten-free.
- Worcestershire sauce (dried): Traditionally, Worcestershire sauce contains gluten in the form of barley or wheat-based vinegar. However, some brands offer gluten-free alternatives, so it is crucial to check the label.
- Spices: While most spices are gluten-free, some spice blends may contain gluten-containing additives or be contaminated with gluten during processing.
- Blue cheese: Blue cheese is made from milk and is inherently gluten-free. However, some blue cheese products may be contaminated with gluten during processing or contain gluten-containing additives, so checking the label is important.
- Food colourings (Yellow 5 and Yellow 6): Yellow food colourings are typically gluten-free.
- Yeast extract: Yeast extract is generally gluten-free, but some individuals with coeliac disease may still react to it due to its similarity to gluten.
- Spice and colour (Annatto extract): Annatto extract is derived from the seeds of the achiote tree and is considered gluten-free.
- Chicken fat: Chicken fat is naturally gluten-free.
- Turmeric extract: Turmeric extract is gluten-free and used as a colouring agent.
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Gluten-free alternatives
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative to Bear Creek's Broccoli Cheese Soup, there are several options available. Firstly, you can opt for gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of regular flour. This simple swap will ensure your soup is gluten-free without compromising on flavour or texture.
Another alternative is to make a dairy-free and gluten-free version of the soup. This can be achieved by using dairy-free cheddar cheese alternatives such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart shreds, and coconut milk instead of regular milk. This option caters to those with dairy restrictions while still delivering a delicious and creamy soup.
Additionally, you can enhance your gluten-free soup by adding extra vegetables. For instance, potatoes, cauliflower, or carrots can be included to boost the nutritional profile and add variety in terms of texture and flavour.
Lastly, when serving the soup, provide gluten-free options for dipping, such as gluten-free bread or crackers. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the dish without worrying about gluten restrictions.
By implementing these alternatives, you can create a delicious and gluten-free version of the classic Broccoli Cheese Soup, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.
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App for scanning products
Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup contains wheat flour, making it unsuitable for gluten-free diets. However, there are now many apps available that can help you to identify gluten-free products.
For example, the Gluten Free Scanner app, available on the App Store, allows users to scan barcodes to quickly check for gluten in the products they buy. The app features a searchable list of safe and unsafe ingredients, as well as dining cards for eating out at restaurants. It also includes a "Discover Gluten Free" option to help users find new gluten-free products. The app claims to have the largest database of food and drink products in the US, with over 500,000 products, and growing.
Another option is the Fig App, which also allows users to scan a product's barcode. The app will flag any ingredients that are not gluten-free and recommend similar products that are.
These apps can be incredibly helpful for those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, helping them to manage their symptoms and lead a healthy gluten-free lifestyle. They can also be useful for those who find it tedious to read through ingredient lists on food products.
It is worth noting that some users have reported inaccuracies in these apps, so it is always important to be cautious and read product labels, especially for those with severe allergies or coeliac disease.
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Customer reviews
While Bear Creek does not specify whether its Cheddar Broccoli Soup Mix is gluten-free, some customer reviews indicate that they have had positive experiences with the product despite having celiac disease. One Amazon review mentions that they have celiac disease and have not had any problems eating the soup.
Other customers have also shared their positive experiences with the soup, describing it as "really good" and "super". One customer shared their recipe, which included adding fresh broccoli florets, chicken broth, and garlic cooked in olive oil, resulting in a delicious outcome.
However, not all reviews are positive. One customer found the soup to be "disgusting" and felt the need to add additional ingredients to make it edible. They mentioned adding broccoli florets and shredded cheddar cheese to improve the taste. Another customer expressed concern about the high sodium content, which caused them to experience swollen eyes after consuming the soup.
Despite some mixed reviews, the Bear Creek Cheddar Broccoli Soup Mix seems to be well-received by customers who have added their own creative twists. Some common additions include freeze-dried broccoli, garlic, frozen corn, and beans, enhancing the flavour and nutritional value of the soup.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup is not gluten-free.
Modified cornstarch, corn syrup solids, maltodextrin, and yeast extract contain gluten.
Yes, there are gluten-free alternatives to Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup. The Fig app can recommend similar gluten-free products.
Bear Creek Broccoli Cheese Soup is available at Target and Amazon.
