Quick Answer
Some Stonefire flatbreads are gluten-free, while others contain gluten. The Naanitarian, Original Naan, Roasted Garlic Naan, and Whole Grain Naan varieties are not gluten-free. However, Stonefire does offer gluten-free flatbread options, including a Gluten-Free Original Naan and a Cauliflower Naan.
About Stonefire Flatbreads
Stonefire Authentic Flatbreads is a company that makes a variety of artisan-style flatbreads, naan breads, and pizza crusts. The company was founded in 1998 and is based in California.
Stonefire uses traditional techniques to handcraft their flatbreads, working with the dough to create light and airy breads. Their breads are available in original and ancient grain varieties, featuring ingredients like whole wheat, naan, and cauliflower.
In addition to retail availability, Stonefire products are served in various restaurants nationwide. Their flatbreads have gained popularity for their soft and chewy texture.
Stonefire Flatbread Ingredients
Most Stonefire flatbreads are made with all-natural ingredients like unbleached, unbromated white flour, water, yeast, salt, and virgin olive oil. Some varieties also contain whole grains, seeds, herbs, and spices for flavor.
However, some of their breads do contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free. Wheat contains the protein gluten, which causes issues for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
So, while many of Stonefire’s products are gluten-free, some traditional flatbread recipes call for wheat flour to achieve the proper dough texture and rise.
Gluten-Containing Stonefire Flatbreads
Here are some of the Stonefire flatbread varieties that contain gluten:
- Original Naan
- Roasted Garlic Naan
- Naanitarian
- Whole Grain Naan
These flatbreads are made with a traditional naan dough containing wheat flour, yeast, salt, and oil. The Naanitarian also includes whole grains like flaxseed and millet.
Gluten-Free Stonefire Flatbreads
Stonefire does offer some gluten-free flatbread options:
- Gluten-Free Original Naan
- Cauliflower Naan
The Gluten-Free Original Naan swaps out the wheat flour for a blend of rice flours while maintaining a similar taste and texture.
The Cauliflower Naan is a veggie-based flatbread made with cauliflower, tapioca flour, eggs, yeast, and seasonings. It provides a gluten-free, high-protein alternative.
Is Stonefire Flatbread Safe for Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity?
Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity need to avoid all foods containing gluten. For these individuals, the Stonefire flatbreads containing wheat are not safe to eat.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder whereby gluten triggers damage to the small intestine.[1] Left untreated over time, celiac disease can lead to complications like osteoporosis, infertility, and cancer.[2]
The only treatment for celiac disease is strictly following a 100% gluten-free diet. This means avoiding any products with wheat, rye, and barley.
People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may also experience gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms after consuming gluten. While not as severe as celiac disease, gluten sensitivity requires removing gluten from the diet to alleviate symptoms.
For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming the Stonefire flatbreads made with wheat could cause adverse health effects. Only their certified gluten-free options, like the Gluten-Free Original Naan and Cauliflower Naan, would be safe to eat.
Cross-Contamination Risk
Even if a product is labeled “gluten-free,” cross-contamination is still a concern for those with celiac disease or sensitivity. This occurs when gluten-free items come into contact with gluten-containing products during manufacturing or preparation.
Stonefire’s website does not indicate that the company’s production facilities are certified gluten-free. So, there is a chance their gluten-free flatbreads could be cross-contaminated.
Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may want to exercise caution and inquire directly with Stonefire about their safety protocols to reduce cross-contamination risks. Or opt for other brands of certified gluten-free flatbread produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities.
Nutritional Profile of Stonefire Flatbreads
Here is a nutritional comparison of two Stonefire flatbread options – their Original Naan containing gluten and Gluten-Free Original Naan:
Stonefire Original Naan (1 piece)
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 2.5g | 28g | 5g |
Stonefire Gluten-Free Original Naan (1 piece)
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 260 | 7g | 41g | 7g |
The gluten-free option is higher in calories, fat, carbs, and protein compared to the regular naan. This is often the case with gluten-free bread products due to reliance on ingredients like rice flour, starches, and gums to improve moisture and texture.
Both flatbreads can fit into a balanced diet. The gluten-free version provides an suitable alternative for those with gluten-related disorders.
Where to Buy Stonefire Flatbreads
Here are some places where Stonefire flatbreads are sold:
- Grocery stores such as Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Whole Foods in the bakery section.
- Trader Joe’s locations in the bread aisle.
- Costco in the frozen section.
- Online via the Stonefire website, Amazon, and Instacart.
- Restaurants like BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Chili’s Grill & Bar, and Maggiano’s Little Italy.
Be sure to check the specific flatbread variety before purchasing. Gluten-free options are typically labeled as such on packaging. The Stonefire website has a product finder tool to locate their gluten-free flatbreads.
Those with celiac disease should verify gluten-free status and check for any warnings about shared equipment or facilities. When dining out, always notify the server of gluten-free needs.
Should You Try Stonefire Flatbreads?
Stonefire offers an array of artisan-style flatbreads using high-quality, traditional ingredients. Their products can benefit both home cooks and restaurants seeking an elevated flatbread option.
However, they may not be the best choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While Stonefire does offer some gluten-free varieties like the Cauliflower Naan and Gluten-Free Original Naan, their production facilities are likely shared. Some cross-contamination risk remains.
Individuals with gluten disorders may want to explore other brands of certified gluten-free flatbreads made in dedicated facilities. Or, some may feel comfortable trying Stonefire after speaking with the company directly on their safety protocols.
For those without dietary restrictions, Stonefire provides scrumptious flatbread options to enhance all kinds of meals. Their products can be enjoyed on their own, turned into personal pizzas, or used to create sandwiches and wraps. Flatbreads like naan are particularly popular for dipping and scooping hummus, curry dishes, and soups.
Just be sure to double check labels and ingredients if gluten is a concern. With proper precautions, most can enjoy the tasty flatbreads handcrafted by Stonefire.
Conclusion
Stonefire flatbreads are produced using artisanal techniques for authentic flavor and texture. However, some varieties do contain gluten while others are gluten-free.
The Naanitarian, Original Naan, Roasted Garlic Naan, and Whole Grain Naan all contain wheat flour and are not safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Stonefire does offer some gluten-free alternatives like the Cauliflower Naan and Gluten-Free Original Naan. But there may be some risk of cross-contamination in production facilities.
In summary:
- Stonefire flatbreads without wheat are gluten-free.
- Those containing wheat or wheat flour have gluten.
- Gluten-free options include Cauliflower Naan and Gluten-Free Original Naan.
- Facilities may pose a cross-contamination risk for those with celiac disease.
- Always verify ingredients and production details if gluten is a concern.
Check labels carefully and contact the company with any questions when navigating food sensitivities. This ensures you can safely enjoy these artisanal flatbreads.
