Fletcher’s is a popular brand of bacon, ham, and sausages that has been around since 1985 If you follow a gluten-free diet, you may be wondering – is Fletcher’s bacon actually gluten-free? Let’s take a closer look at what types of products Fletcher’s offers and how they can fit into a gluten-free lifestyle
A Brief History of Fletcher’s
Fletcher’s was founded in 1985 by Floyd Fletcher in Tacoma, Washington. The company specializes in smoked and cured pork products like bacon, ham, sausages, and hot dogs
Fletcher’s bacon is a Pacific Northwest staple, known for its thick-cut slices, smoky flavor, and hearty texture. Beyond bacon, the brand offers items like smoked ham, beef frankfurters, bratwursts, and breakfast sausage links.
While not a huge national brand, Fletcher’s has a loyal following throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Their products are sold in grocery chains like Safeway, Albertsons, and Costco.
Are Fletcher’s Products Gluten-Free?
Many people want to know – is Fletcher’s bacon and other products safe to eat on a gluten-free diet?
According to the company’s FAQ page, Fletcher’s products that are labeled “gluten-free” on the packaging are safe for gluten-free diets. They recommend checking each package’s label to confirm gluten content.
For items without a “gluten-free” label, it’s unclear if Fletcher’s products are free of gluten cross-contamination. Those with celiac disease or on a strict gluten-free diet may want to avoid unlabeled products or contact the company directly to inquire about testing protocols.
What Fletcher’s Items Are Labeled Gluten-Free?
While not all Fletcher’s products have a “gluten-free” label, some varieties are certified gluten-free:
- Fletcher’s Uncured Chicken Bacon
- Fletcher’s Uncured Turkey Bacon
- Fletcher’s Canadian Bacon
- Fletcher’s Beef Smoked Sausage
- Fletcher’s Original Smoked Sausage
Again, you’ll want to check each package. But in general, Fletcher’s chicken, turkey, and beef products appear more likely to be labeled gluten-free than their pork items.
Are There Any Risks of Gluten in Fletcher’s Products?
While some Fletcher’s items are labeled gluten-free, there could still be a risk of cross-contamination at their facilities or gluten ingredients used:
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Most pork products like bacon and ham do not have a gluten-free label. They may come into contact with gluten during processing.
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Flavors, spices, or seasonings added to meats could contain undisclosed gluten sources like wheat.
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No details are provided on allergen testing or dedicated equipment for gluten-free items.
So individuals with celiac disease or on a strict gluten-free diet may want to exercise caution with unlabeled Fletcher’s products, or contact the company with any questions.
How to Enjoy Fletcher’s Bacon on a Gluten-Free Diet
If you don’t have celiac disease, buying Fletcher’s bacon or other pork products that aren’t labeled gluten-free is likely fine in moderation.
Those with celiac or on a strict gluten-free diet have a few options to safely enjoy Fletcher’s delicious bacon:
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Choose certified gluten-free varieties like their turkey or chicken bacon.
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Contact Fletcher’s directly to inquire about testing procedures if interested in their other pork products.
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Look for local bacon brands that clearly label gluten-free status or address cross-contamination.
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Make your own bacon at home from certified gluten-free pork belly.
While not every Fletcher’s product may be suitable for a gluten-free diet, they offer some “gluten-free” labeled options. With care and awareness, you can still enjoy their signature bacon and meats. Just be sure to thoroughly check labels or contact them with any questions.
The Bottom Line: Is Fletcher’s Bacon Gluten-Free?
However, their traditional pork bacon and ham products are not labeled gluten-free and may pose a risk for those with celiac. Individuals with celiac disease or following a strict gluten-free diet may want to avoid unlabeled Fletcher’s items unless they can confirm gluten testing protocols with the company.
But for those who don’t have celiac disease and simply want to reduce gluten, enjoying Fletcher’s bacon in moderation should be fine. Just be sure to thoroughly read labels, ask questions, and use your best judgment for your own health needs.
