Bushra Griffith
Tillamook is a company that produces a variety of cheeses, including a medium cheddar, an extra sharp aged cheddar, and a sharp cheddar. Their cheeses are made with simple ingredients and are generally gluten-free. However, it's always good to check the labels of pre-shredded cheese products, as some may contain anti-caking agents or additives with gluten. So, is Tillamook Cheddar Cheese gluten-free?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free | Yes, Tillamook cheese is generally gluten-free, but the company recommends checking individual product labels for the most up-to-date information. |
| Ingredients | Cultured milk, salt, enzymes, annatto (color). Contains milk. |
| Allergens | Contains milk. People with dairy allergies should be aware that Tillamook cheese contains milk proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. |
| Lactose | Lower in lactose compared to milk, but those with severe lactose intolerance may still need to avoid or limit their intake. |
| Calories | A serving size of 1 slice (21g) has 90 calories. |
| Other varieties | Tillamook offers Medium Cheddar, Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar, and Shredded Sharp Cheddar varieties. |
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What You'll Learn
Tillamook's statement on gluten
Tillamook has addressed concerns about gluten in its products, stating that all of their cheeses are crafted with simple ingredients that do not contain gluten. This aligns with the general understanding that most cheese is naturally gluten-free, as gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which are not typically used in cheese production.
However, Tillamook also emphasizes the importance of checking individual product labels for the most accurate and up-to-date information. This recommendation reflects the possibility that some processed cheeses or cheese products may contain gluten additives. While cellulose, which may be listed as an ingredient, does not contain gluten, certain pre-shredded cheeses might include anti-caking agents or other additives that contain gluten.
To provide their customers with peace of mind, Tillamook suggests that those with specific concerns or dietary restrictions regarding gluten consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice. Additionally, they can explore gluten management solutions, such as anti-gluten pills, which can aid in breaking down gluten in food to prevent unpleasant reactions.
The company also offers gluten-free recipes on its website, such as a gluten-free mac and cheese dish that utilizes Tillamook Shredded Sharp Cheddar. This demonstrates their commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs and providing enjoyable, gluten-free options for their customers.
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Gluten-free alternatives
Tillamook Medium Cheddar is gluten-free, as it is made using only four ingredients: cultured milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto (color). However, it is important to note that while natural cheeses like cheddar are typically gluten-free, processed cheese products may contain gluten.
If you are looking for gluten-free alternatives to Tillamook Cheddar, there are several options available. Firstly, other natural, firm cheeses such as Parmesan, mozzarella, provolone, and cottage cheese are usually gluten-free. It is always a good idea to check the ingredient list, as some brands may contain gluten in the form of wheat starch or modified food starch.
Additionally, shredded cheese and cheese sticks are generally gluten-free, although it is important to read the labels to ensure they do not contain gluten-containing ingredients. Cheese powder and cheese whiz are also usually gluten-free options.
For those seeking dairy-free alternatives, there are vegan, plant-based, gluten-free, and soy-free cheddar-style slices and shreds available. These alternatives are typically made from starch and coconut oil and can be used in dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches and cheeseburgers. Nutritional yeast is another dairy-free option that can be sprinkled on dishes or added to sauces for a cheese-like flavor.
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Gluten-containing ingredients
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is important to read the ingredients label on food products to identify gluten-containing ingredients and avoid gluten cross-contact, especially for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Some common gluten-containing ingredients to look out for include:
- Wheat and wheat-based ingredients: This includes wheat flour, wheat starch, and wheat germ. The FDA requires food manufacturers to list wheat-containing ingredients on their labels. However, it's important to note that \"wheat-free\" does not always mean \"gluten-free,\", as these products may still contain rye or barley.
- Barley and barley-based ingredients: Barley can be found in natural and artificial flavorings, malt, and malt vinegar. It is also used in beer, ale, and lager, which are not distilled and therefore are not gluten-free.
- Rye: Rye bread and rye flour are common sources of gluten.
- Oats: Oats themselves do not contain gluten, but they can be contaminated with gluten during processing. Look for certified gluten-free oats to ensure they are safe.
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein: This can be made from wheat, corn, or soy.
- Modified starch: Modified starch can come from various sources, including wheat.
- Natural and artificial flavorings: These can be derived from barley or other gluten-containing sources.
It's important to note that gluten can be hidden in unexpected places, such as lunch meats, soy sauce, and even non-food items like lip balm. Always read labels carefully and, if in doubt, contact the manufacturer to verify the gluten content of a product.
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Tillamook cheese ingredients
Tillamook Cheddar Cheese is made using a recipe that is based on over 100 years of cheese-making experience. The cheese is crafted using only four natural ingredients: cultured milk, enzymes (rennet), salt, and annatto. Annatto is a natural colouring extracted from the seeds of annatto trees grown in tropical regions. It is this ingredient that gives Tillamook Cheddar its distinctive yellow colour.
The ingredients used in Tillamook Cheddar Cheese are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and flavour. Cultured milk, for example, provides the perfect base for cheese-making, while enzymes help to promote the development of flavour and texture. Salt is added to enhance the flavour and act as a preservative, and annatto not only contributes to the cheese's colour but also adds subtle flavour notes.
The combination of these four ingredients, along with the traditional cheddar-making method employed by Tillamook, results in a cheese that has a rich, clean, and delicious taste. The natural ageing process, in which every batch is aged for a minimum of 60 days, further contributes to the cheese's award-winning flavour and texture.
It is worth noting that Tillamook also offers a White Cheddar variety, which does not contain annatto and, therefore, only has three ingredients. This option is ideal for those who prefer a more neutral-coloured cheese or have specific dietary requirements.
Overall, the ingredients in Tillamook Cheddar Cheese showcase the company's commitment to using natural, high-quality components to create a delicious and award-winning product.
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Cross-contamination warnings
Cross-contamination, or cross-contact, is a significant concern for those who require a gluten-free diet, as even tiny amounts of gluten can cause symptoms and damage the small intestine. This is especially true for those with celiac disease, for whom a gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment. Cross-contact occurs when gluten-free food comes into contact with gluten-containing ingredients or surfaces, making it unsafe to consume for those with celiac disease.
There are several ways in which cross-contact can occur, and it can happen at any stage of the food's journey, from the field to the kitchen. Here are some warnings and precautions to help prevent cross-contamination:
- Shared Utensils and Appliances: Shared utensils, such as knives and butter knives, can easily spread gluten to gluten-free foods. It is recommended to have separate, labelled utensils and condiments for gluten-free foods. Additionally, appliances like toasters and ovens can be a source of cross-contamination. Celiac disease experts recommend having a separate toaster for gluten-free items. If that is not possible, reusable toaster bags can be used, but caution is still needed to prevent crumbs from gluten-containing foods from falling into the bag.
- Bulk Bins and Scoops: Shared scoops in open or adjacent bulk bins have a high risk of cross-contact. It is best to avoid these and opt for packaged products labelled gluten-free whenever possible.
- Grain Foods: Many grains and flours are naturally gluten-free, but they may be contaminated with gluten-containing grains during growth, processing, or manufacturing. Oats, in particular, have been a subject of controversy in gluten-free diets, as some people may experience an immune reaction to oat protein (avenin), similar to gluten.
- Vague Labelling: Avoid products with vague labelling, such as "made with gluten-free ingredients" or "no gluten ingredients used." This may indicate that the manufacturer does not adequately test for gluten contamination. Look for certified gluten-free labels or choose naturally gluten-free foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and dairy.
- Social and Dining Out Settings: Cross-contact can occur when dining out or in social settings where both gluten-free and gluten-containing foods are served. Be cautious of serving utensils that may have been used for multiple dishes. When filling your plate, be mindful of the order in which dishes are placed to avoid contact with gluten-containing foods.
- Kitchen Practices: If sharing a kitchen with others who consume gluten, it is essential to have separate, well-labelled gluten-free food items and condiments. Clean counter spaces and appliances regularly to avoid picking up crumbs or flour that may contain gluten.
Remember, cross-contamination can occur anywhere food is stored, prepared, or served. Being vigilant and proactive about potential sources of cross-contact is essential to maintaining a gluten-free diet.
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Frequently asked questions
Tillamook cheese is generally gluten-free, as the company claims that all of their cheeses are made with simple ingredients that do not contain gluten. However, it is always good to check the product labels for the most up-to-date information.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Yes, there are several other brands that offer gluten-free cheddar cheese, including Cabot Cheddar Cheese, Organic Valley Cheese, Sargento Natural Cheese, and Kerrygold Irish Cheese.
Yes, there is a recipe for gluten-free mac and cheese that uses Tillamook Shredded Sharp Cheddar and gruyere cheese.
