Quick Answer
Yes, Kodiak Cakes protein waffles are certified gluten-free. Kodiak Cakes ensures their products are gluten-free by testing them to contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. This strict testing protocol allows those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to enjoy Kodiak Cakes protein waffles without worry.
In-Depth Answer
For those with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or who follow a gluten-free diet, identifying truly gluten-free foods can be challenging. Thankfully, Kodiak Cakes protein waffles are a gluten-free breakfast option you can trust.
Here are the key facts on Kodiak Cakes protein waffles and their gluten-free status:
- Kodiak Cakes protein waffles are certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
- To meet GFCO certification, foods must contain less than 10 ppm of gluten.
- Kodiak Cakes takes it a step further, testing their products to contain less than 5 ppm of gluten.
- Kodiak Cakes uses certified gluten-free oats and other gluten-free ingredients to make their waffles.
- Their facilities are free of gluten cross-contamination.
- Kodiak Cakes protein waffles are third-party tested for gluten before leaving their facilities.
The GFCO is recognized as one of the most trusted gluten-free certifiers worldwide. Foods certified as gluten-free by GFCO must undergo rigorous testing to validate they contain less than 10 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.
Kodiak Cakes takes their commitment to gluten-free quality a step beyond basic GFCO certification. They test their products to contain less than 5 ppm of gluten. This stricter standard provides an extra level of assurance for gluten-sensitive consumers.
In addition, Kodiak Cakes uses only certified gluten-free ingredients like oats, non-GMO whey protein, eggs and milk to produce their protein waffles. They avoid all grains and ingredients that commonly contain gluten like wheat, barley, rye and malt.
Their manufacturing facilities are completely free of gluten cross-contamination. This means gluten-free waffles are produced on dedicated equipment isolated from any gluten-containing foods. Proper sanitation and employee training ensure no gluten enters the gluten-free production lines.
Finally, every batch of Kodiak Cakes protein waffles is third-party tested for the absence of gluten before leaving their facilities. So you can be 100% confident youâ€TMre getting truly gluten-free waffles free of cross-contamination.
Gluten-Free Labeling Regulations
For a product in the United States to advertise itself as “gluten-free” it must comply with the FDAâ€TMs gluten-free food labeling regulations:
- It must contain less than 20 ppm of gluten.
- No ingredients can be derived from prohibited grains like wheat, rye, barley and malt unless processed to remove gluten.
- It must adhere to standards preventing cross-contamination.
With their products containing less than 5 ppm of gluten and meeting all other FDA regulations, Kodiak Cakes can confidently label their protein waffles as gluten-free.
Some products containing oats also voluntarily get GFCO certification to validate the oats were specially processed to remove gluten. Since all the oats Kodiak uses are already certified gluten-free, additional GFCO certification is not required. But they pursue it anyway to provide the highest level of reassurance to gluten-free consumers.
Benefits of Kodiak Cakes Protein Waffles
Here are some of the major benefits of choosing gluten-free Kodiak Cakes protein waffles:
- High in Protein – Each 76g waffle contains 10g of protein from milk and whey to help you stay full and satisfied.
- Lower in Carbs – Has 21g net carbs compared to 30g+ in many waffles, making them keto and diabetic-friendly.
- Made with Whole Foods – Real, gluten-free ingredients like eggs, milk and oats provide nutrition.
- No Artificial Ingredients – Free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
- Easy to Digest – The gluten-free grains are easy to digest and gentle on sensitive stomachs.
In addition to being gluten-free, Kodiak Cakes protein waffles deliver high protein, lower carbs, and simple whole food ingredients. The protein and fiber keep you fuller longer, while the lower carb count fits into diets like gluten-free, keto and diabetic eating plans.
If you follow a special diet, having a healthy, gluten-free waffle packed with protein is a great option for breakfast, snacks, or even as a light meal. You get convenience without having to compromise your diet, health or nutrition.
Should You Trust Kodiak Cakes Gluten-Free Claim?
When a product claims to be “gluten-free,” itâ€TMs reasonable to question that claim and ask for proof to trust it. Here are the top reasons you can trust Kodiak Cakes when they say their protein waffles are gluten-free:
- Stringent third-party testing verifies less than 20 ppm gluten.
- GFCO certification requires rigorous standards to attain.
- Transparent about testing for less than 5 ppm gluten.
- All ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
- Produced in isolation from gluten-containing foods.
- Trusted brand in gluten-free and specialty diet communities.
- No reactions reported from gluten-sensitive consumers.
Kodiak Cakes submits to regular third-party testing demonstrating their waffles contain less than 20 ppm of gluten before leaving the facility. This is the FDA standard for bearing a “gluten-free” claim.
Earning GFCO certification also provides assurance, as it is one of the most trusted gluten-free certifiers worldwide with stringent protocols required. Testing under 5 ppm surpasses common standards.
The brand is transparent about every aspect of their commitment to safe gluten-free foods, from sourcing certified ingredients to isolation procedures in manufacturing. They have built trust over many years within gluten-free and various specialty diet communities.
No reactions have been reported from celiac or gluten intolerant customers. This adds supporting evidence that Kodiak Cakes waffles reliably test below gluten safety thresholds in production.
When a reputable brand openly shares their testing and manufacturing procedures, you can rest assured their “gluten-free” labeling claim is legitimate. Based on all these criteria, Kodiak Cakes has earned consumer trust that their protein waffles reliably meet strict gluten-free standards.
Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity
To better understand the importance of gluten-free foods, letâ€TMs take a quick look at celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when gluten is ingested. The immune reaction to gluten leads to injury and deterioration of the intestinal villi responsible for absorption of nutrients.
Symptoms of celiac disease may include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Skin rash
In children it can cause stunted growth and delayed development. The only treatment for celiac disease is strictly adhering to a gluten-free diet for life to manage symptoms and allow intestinal healing.
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity involves similar digestive and extra-intestinal symptoms triggered by gluten ingestion. However, it does not cause the same autoimmune intestinal damage seen in celiac disease. Going gluten-free helps manage symptoms.
While only approximately 1% of people have celiac disease, estimates suggest 6-13% may have non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Together, these conditions mean close to 10% of the population requires gluten-free foods.
For anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, sticking to a strict gluten-free diet is the only way to prevent adverse reactions. Fortunately, quality brands like Kodiak Cakes offer tasty gluten-free options, including their protein-packed waffles.
Finding Truly Gluten-Free Oats
One ingredient that raises questions when it comes to gluten-free claims is oats. While oats themselves donâ€TMt naturally contain gluten, theyâ€TMre often cross-contaminated during growing and processing.
Unless certified, most regular oats are likely contaminated with wheat, barley or rye – making them unsuitable for gluten-free diets. Various studies show 70-80% of unverified oats test above the safe gluten threshold.
This makes finding guaranteed gluten-free oats essential for celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Kodiak Cakes only uses certified gluten-free oats in their products, including their protein waffles.
Here are some ways companies like Kodiak Cakes source verified gluten-free oats:
- Specially Produced – Dedicated oat farms and facilities process oats separately from gluten grains.
- Harvested Before Gluten Crops – Early harvesting minimizes cross-contamination in the field.
- Segregated Storage and Transport – Prevents co-mingling with gluten-containing grains.
- Dedicated Equipment – All equipment used is thoroughly cleaned to remove gluten.
- Regular Testing – Testing verifies gluten levels under 20 ppm in the final oats.
Thanks to these strict practices, certified gluten-free oats are widely available. For the health of gluten-free consumers, itâ€TMs essential that food brands like Kodiak Cakes take steps to source verified gluten-free oats.
What About a Gluten Allergy?
While gluten intolerance is common, a wheat allergy is different from celiac disease or sensitivity. A wheat allergy triggers an immune response that may result in rapid symptoms like:
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
This immune reaction is specific to wheat proteins, not gluten. Although oats donâ€TMt contain wheat, those with a wheat allergy need to be aware of the potential for cross-contamination during production.
Kodiak Cakes states their products are processed in facilities that also handle wheat. So those with a wheat allergy need to exercise caution regarding wheat exposure.
For consumers only avoiding gluten due to celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity or food preferences, Kodiak Cakes protein waffles have been verified gluten-free. But they may not meet the needs of those with a severe wheat allergy.
Kodiak Cakes Gluten-Free Product Range
In addition to their gluten-free protein waffles, here is a partial list of other Kodiak Cakes gluten-free products:
- Buttermilk Pancake Mix
- Protein Pancake Mix
- Flapjack & Waffle Mix
- Dark Chocolate Pancake Mix
- Double Dark Chocolate Muffin & Waffle Mix
- Brownie Mix
- Oatmeal
- Syrups
- Flapjacks
With gluten-free claims verified by thorough testing procedures, those avoiding gluten have a wide range of breakfast and baking options from Kodiak Cakes. You can enjoy their products knowing they live up to their promise of safely gluten-free foods.
In Conclusion
When you see a product labeled as “gluten-free,” itâ€TMs wise to look into the validity of the claim. Kodiak Cakes protein waffles reliably meet gluten-free standards for consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Hereâ€TMs a summary of the key facts confirming Kodiak Cakes protein waffles are gluten-free:
- Certified by the GFCO to contain under 10 ppm of gluten
- Independently tested to confirm less than 5 ppm gluten
- Made with certified gluten-free oats and other ingredients
- Produced in isolation from gluten-containing foods
- Trusted gluten-free brand with no reported reactions
Based on transparent gluten-free protocols and third-party validation, Kodiak Cakes provides a gluten-free protein waffle you can trust. Their range of gluten-free mixes and pancakes makes it easier for those avoiding gluten to stick to a gluten-free diet without sacrificing nutrition or variety.
Overall, Kodiak Cakes protein waffles deliver great taste, high protein and gluten-free assurance. This makes them an ideal choice for a healthy, gluten-free breakfast.