Mrs. T’s pierogies are a popular frozen food product that can be found in grocery store freezer sections across the United States. With their pillowy dough and savory fillings, Mrs. T’s pierogies make for a convenient and tasty meal or snack. But for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, an important question arises: are Mrs. T’s pierogies gluten-free?
What are Mrs T’s pierogies?
Mrs. T’s pierogies are a type of filled dumpling made with unleavened dough that originates from Eastern European cuisine. The name comes from the company Mrs. T’s Pierogies, which manufactures and distributes the popular frozen pierogi products to grocery stores nationwide.
There are several varieties of Mrs. T’s pierogies available, with fillings like potato and cheese, sauerkraut and potato, broccoli and cheese, spinach and feta, and more. In addition to different fillings, the pierogies are available in a few different shapes and sizes, like the traditional half-moon shape as well as rounds.
The pierogi dough is made from wheat flour, giving the dumplings their distinctive chewy, tender texture. Mrs. T’s uses a proprietary blend of wheat flours in their pierogi dough recipe.
Are pierogies typically made with gluten-containing ingredients?
Traditional pierogi dough is made from wheat flour, which contains the protein gluten. Here are some of the common ingredients used to make pierogi dough:
- All-purpose flour or bread flour (contain gluten)
- Warm water
- Eggs
- Salt
- Oil or butter
The use of wheat flour gives the pierogi dough its stretchy, chewy texture after cooking. Therefore, pierogies made in the traditional way with wheat flour contain gluten.
Do Mrs T’s pierogies contain gluten?
After reviewing the ingredients lists printed on Mrs. T’s pierogi packaging, it appears that the majority of Mrs. T’s pierogi products are not gluten-free. The main source of gluten comes from the wheat flour used in making the pierogi dough.
Common allergen statements on Mrs. T’s pierogi packaging include:
- “Contains wheat and milk”
- “Contains wheat, milk, egg”
Mrs. T’s has confirmed on their FAQ page that their traditional pierogi dough contains wheat flour, which means they are not gluten-free.
Exceptions
Mrs. T’s did launch a gluten-free pierogi product line in 2019. The gluten-free pierogies are made with a dough containing rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch instead of wheat flour.
At this time, there are three gluten-free varieties available:
- Gluten Free Potato and Cheddar Cheese Pierogies
- Gluten Free Potato and Onion Pierogies
- Gluten Free Apple Cinnamon Raisin Pierogies
The gluten-free Mrs. T’s pierogies are made in a dedicated facility and undergo gluten testing to confirm they contain less than 20ppm of gluten. Packaging for the gluten-free options is labeled “Certified Gluten-Free.”
What ingredients are in Mrs T’s gluten-containing pierogies?
While ingredients may vary slightly between Mrs. T’s different pierogi varieties, the standard ingredients in their gluten-containing pierogies include:
Dough Ingredients:
- Enriched wheat flour (contains gluten)
- Water
- Eggs
- Margarine (contains milk)
- Salt
Filling Ingredients:
- Potatoes
- Cheddar cheese (contains milk)
- Onions
- Sauerkraut
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Feta cheese (contains milk)
The main sources of gluten are the enriched wheat flour used in the dough, and fillings that contain other gluten sources like cheese or wheat-based feta cheese.
What steps does Mrs T’s take to avoid cross-contamination?
According to their website’s FAQ, Mrs. T’s takes the following precautions to prevent cross-contamination of their gluten-free pierogies:
- Produces gluten-free pierogies in a dedicated gluten-free facility
- Uses equipment and tools that do not come into contact with gluten
- Follows strict sanitation procedures
- Conducts thorough allergen testing to verify gluten-free status
However, their faq states that the possibility of trace gluten exposure can not be ruled out completely. So people with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerances should use their own judgement when consuming.
No “Gluten-Free” Label
Mrs. T’s traditional pierogies that contain wheat are produced in facilities that also process wheat. While they have allergen protocols in place, cross-contact with gluten is possible.
This is why none of the traditional Mrs. T pierogies carry a “gluten-free” claim on the packaging.
Are there any gluten-free Mrs T’s pierogi alternatives?
For those avoiding gluten, here are some alternatives to get your pierogi fix:
Gluten-Free Brands
- Mrs. T’s Gluten-Free Pierogies (potato and cheddar, potato and onion, apple cinnamon raisin)
- Alexia Potato and Cheddar Cheese Pierogies
- Kite Hill Artisan Pierogi (vegan options)
Make Your Own Gluten-Free Pierogies
There are many recipes available to make homemade gluten-free pierogies using alternate flours like:
- White rice flour
- Brown rice flour
- Tapioca flour
- Potato starch
- Chickpea flour
- Almond flour
When preparing homemade pierogies, be sure to use fillings that don’t contain gluten and avoid cross-contamination when rolling and cutting the dough.
Substitute with Other Gluten-Free Dumplings
You can also try other gluten-free stuffed dumpling varieties like:
- Potstickers
- Gyoza
- Wontons
- Ravioli
- Tortellini
There are gluten-free versions of all these dumplings available either pre-made or as recipes to make at home.
Are Mrs T’s products safe for those with celiac disease?
For those with celiac disease, Mrs. T’s traditional pierogies containing wheat are not considered safe to eat due to the high gluten content.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten. Even small amounts of cross-contact gluten can cause issues for those with celiac.
The only Mrs. T’s products that may be safe for celiacs are the certified gluten-free pierogies, provided they are produced in a facility free from gluten contamination.
Testing Gluten-Free Status
Mrs. T’s tests their gluten-free pierogies to verify they contain less than 20ppm of gluten. This puts them well below the FDA definition of “gluten-free” (less than 20ppm).
However, those with celiac should be cautious, as studies show gluten cross-contact below 20ppm can still cause issues for the most sensitive celiacs.
No Testing for Gluten-Containing Products
Mrs. T’s does not provide any gluten testing data on their traditional, gluten-containing pierogi products. Since these products contain wheat flour, they likely contain high levels of gluten far exceeding 20ppm.
Use Your Judgement
Ultimately those with celiac disease need to use their own judgement on whether Mrs. T’s gluten-free or gluten-containing products will be safe for them personally. Speak to your doctor if you are unsure.
Are Mrs T’s pierogies safe for gluten sensitivities?
Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) may be able to tolerate small amounts of gluten cross-contact. Some people with NCGS report being able to eat products that test below 20ppm gluten.
However, the tolerance level varies greatly between individuals. Some with gluten sensitivity may still react to traces of gluten in the single digit ppm range.
Gluten-Free Options
For those highly sensitive to gluten, the certified gluten-free Mrs. T’s pierogies would likely be the safest option. Starting with the gluten-free varieties could be a way to test individual tolerance levels.
Gluten-Containing Varieties
When it comes to Mrs. T’s traditional, wheat-based pierogies, the risk of a gluten reaction increases. With no gluten testing data available, these products likely contain levels of gluten too high for many gluten sensitives.
Proceeding with caution and listening to your own body’s reactions to trial gluten is advised if considering the gluten-containing Mrs. T’s products.
Do Mrs T’s processing facilities have dedicated equipment?
Mrs. T’s provides the following information about their manufacturing facilities and processes:
Gluten-Free Pierogi Facility
The gluten-free Mrs. T’s pierogies are produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility that only processes gluten-free products. Using dedicated equipment helps avoid cross-contamination.
Traditional Pierogi Facilities
The traditional Mrs. T’s pierogies containing wheat are produced in facilities that also process other wheat-based products. The equipment and lines are shared.
While they have allergen protocols in place, the shared equipment means gluten cross-contact is still a possibility in the traditional pierogies.
Third Party Manufacturers
Mrs. T’s also discloses that they work with third party vendors and manufacturing plants to make some varieties. These facilities are monitored for allergen control as well.
Ingredients are also sourced from various suppliers, which increases the chances of cross-contact.
What certifications do Mrs T’s gluten-free pierogies have?
Mrs. T’s gluten-free pierogies are certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP). Products certified by the GFCP must contain less than 10ppm of gluten.
The GFCP is a certification program administered by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG), a leading organization in testing and certifying gluten-free products.
You can identify GFCP certified products by the “Certified Gluten-Free” claim and logo on packaging:
The GFCP certification provides added assurance that Mrs. T’s gluten-free pierogies have been properly tested and vetted to be below the allowable limits for gluten.
No Certification for Gluten-Containing Products
Mrs. T’s traditional pierogies containing wheat do not carry any gluten-free or allergen-related certifications.
Should celiacs and gluten-sensitives exercise caution with Mrs T’s pierogies?
Here is a summary of recommendations for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity considering Mrs. T’s pierogies:
Celiacs
- Avoid all Mrs. T’s pierogies except the gluten-free certified varieties
- Gluten-free varieties may be tolerated, but trace gluten risk remains
- Exercise extreme caution and consult your doctor before eating
Gluten Sensitivity
- Try the gluten-free varieties first to assess tolerance
- Avoid traditional gluten-containing varieties if highly sensitive
- May be able to tolerate traces of gluten below 20ppm
- Monitor symptoms carefully if consuming
For Both Groups
- Thoroughly check labels & ingredients for hidden gluten sources
- Verify packaging states “Certified Gluten-Free” before eating
- Contact manufacturer with any questions or concerns
Those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity should use their best judgement given their individual level of sensitivity and history of reactions when deciding whether to consume Mrs. T’s pierogies.
Conclusion
Mrs. T’s classic pierogi products are not gluten-free due to containing wheat flour in the dough. Only their certified gluten-free pierogi varieties are labeled gluten-free.
Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity need to be cautious of the risk of cross-contamination, even with the gluten-free options. Thoroughly checking labels and contacting the manufacturer is advised.
When in doubt, the safest option is to avoid Mrs. T’s pierogies altogether and find a substitute that fits your dietary needs. Being well-informed by reviewing allergen statements and certifications allows you to make the best decision for your own health.
