Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people choosing to avoid gluten for health or lifestyle reasons. For those who love pizza but need to avoid gluten, finding good gluten-free options can be a challenge. One brand that has been a favorite for gluten-free pizza lovers is Freschetta. But does Freschetta still make gluten-free pizza today?
A Brief History of Freschetta Gluten-Free Pizza
Freschetta first introduced a gluten-free pizza option back in 2012. This made them one of the first major frozen pizza brands to offer a certified gluten-free pizza crust. Their original gluten-free pizza offerings included a Cheese Pizza and a Pepperoni Pizza.
Freschetta’s gluten-free crust was certified by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG), meaning it contained less than 10 parts per million of gluten. This made it safe for most people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The crust was made with a blend of gluten-free flours like rice flour and tapioca starch.
The launch of Freschetta gluten-free pizza was welcomed by those needing gluten-free options. It provided an easy, convenient frozen pizza choice that didn’t require finding and preparing a specialty gluten-free crust. The availability of Freschetta gluten-free pizza in major grocery stores made it easy to find and accessible.
For several years, Freschetta continued to offer their gluten-free pizza options. Variety expanded beyond just cheese and pepperoni to include offerings like Gluten Free Four Cheese Medley. Freschetta established themselves as a leading choice for gluten-free frozen pizza.
Freschetta Gluten-Free Pizza Today
In 2019, Freschetta discontinued their line of gluten-free pizza products. Both the gluten-free cheese and pepperoni pizzas were removed from store shelves. Freschetta made no announcement about why they discontinued their gluten-free pizza line.
Currently in 2023, Freschetta does not offer any certified gluten-free pizza options. Their full product line today includes traditional pizza flavors like Five Cheese, Pepperoni, Supreme, etc. None of these pizzas are labeled as gluten-free or certified gluten-free.
So in summary – no, Freschetta unfortunately no longer makes gluten-free pizza today. The gluten-free options were discontinued several years ago and have not returned. Freschetta’s website does not indicate any plans to bring back gluten-free pizza at this time.
Gluten-Free Pizza Options Similar to Freschetta
While gluten-free pizza lovers can no longer enjoy Freschetta, there are some similar gluten-free frozen pizza options still available:
- Against the Grain Gluten Free Pizza – Against the Grain offers both cheese and pepperoni gluten-free pizzas. The crust is certified gluten-free.
- Udi’s Gluten Free Pizza – Udi’s is one of the most popular gluten-free brands and their pizza comes in flavors like cheese, pepperoni, and margherita.
- Amy’s Gluten Free Rice Crust Pizza – Amy’s offers cheese and vegetable gluten-free pizzas on a rice crust.
- Glutino Gluten Free Pizzas – Glutino has gluten-free pizzas in varieties like cheese, pepperoni, and vegetable.
While the crust and flavors may differ slightly compared to what Freschetta used to offer, these brands provide similar gluten-free frozen pizza options. The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) certifies many of their products, just like Freschetta’s pizzas used to be certified.
Are There Any Petitions for Freschetta Gluten-Free Pizza?
When Freschetta first discontinued their gluten-free pizzas, some fans expressed disappointment and tried petitioning the company to bring back the gluten-free options. However, there do not appear to be any active petitions circulating currently in 2023.
A change.org petition created in 2019 titled “Bring back Freschetta Gluten Free Pizza” closed with 110 supporters. The petition read:
Freschetta recently discontinued their line of gluten free pizzas. For those of us that relied on that for quick easy meals, this was devastating. There are few other tasty conveniently located options for us. Please reconsider and bring back the Freschetta gluten free pizza.
Comments on the petition indicated the gluten-free pizzas were a grocery staple for many with celiac disease and food allergies who enjoyed the taste and accessibility of this product.
However, the petition failed to gain significant traction and Freschetta made no moves to bring back the discontinued gluten-free pizzas. Currently in 2023, there are no active Change.org petitions or similar campaigns pressuring Freschetta on this issue.
It seems the fans of Freschetta gluten-free pizza have reluctantly accepted that this product does not appear to be returning. While some may still hope Freschetta changes their mind, there is no organized petition movement making this request to the company.
What Are Some Tips for Finding Gluten-Free Frozen Pizza?
Although Freschetta no longer offers gluten-free pizza, there are still plenty of options out there for those who need to avoid gluten. Here are some helpful tips for finding good gluten-free frozen pizzas:
- Check labels carefully – Products marked “gluten-free” are ideal. Look for a certification from GFCO or another certifying organization.
- Know your favorite brands – Keep an eye out for gluten-free options from brands you already enjoy.
- Ask customer service – If unsure, call the 800 number on packaging and ask about gluten ingredients.
- Shop specialty aisles – Natural food stores and chains like Whole Foods have expansive gluten-free sections.
- Shop online – Sites like Amazon have filters to easily shop for gluten-free.
- Join gluten-free groups – Follow forums like r/glutenfree to crowdsource recommendations.
Checking the freezer section routinely and being diligent about labels are key. Always double check even if a pizza seems “safe” – ingredients and manufacturing facilities can change. With some perseverance, you can find plenty of gluten-free pizzas that still satisfy the craving.
What Are Some Alternatives to Freschetta for Gluten-Free Frozen Meals?
In addition to offering gluten-free pizzas, Freschetta also provided other gluten-free frozen meal options like pastas and chicken parmesan. Here are some recommended brands to check out for similar gluten-free frozen meals:
- Amy’s Kitchen – Amy’s has a line of gluten-free meals like rice bowls, mac and cheese, burritos and more.
- Evol – Evol’s gluten-free bowls feature international flavors like chimichurri chicken and green curry.
- Against the Grain – Look for Against the Grain’s gluten-free options like pizza, baguettes, and chicken nuggets.
- Kinnikinnick – This brand offers gluten-free versions of comfort foods like chicken fingers, donuts and dumplings.
- Van’s Gluten Free – Van’s line includes gluten-free waffles, pancakes and breakfast sandwiches.
Mixing and matching items from several brands gives you an assortment of gluten-free frozen meal choices to suit any taste. Be sure to check labels closely for wheat/gluten ingredients and certification.
What Gluten-Free Pizza Crusts Are Recommended for Making Your Own?
For the most flexibility in gluten-free pizza options, another idea is to make your own crust and add whatever toppings you want. Here are some of the top recommended brands for pre-made gluten-free pizza crusts:
- Against the Grain Gourmet Pizza Crusts – These crispy crusts are vegan, nut-free and Kosher certified gluten-free.
- Calise & Son Bakery Pizza Crusts – Pre-baked Italian style gluten-free crusts in flavors like herb and vegan.
- Udi’s Gluten Free Pizza Crust – Udi’s popular crust comes pre-baked or uncooked to finish at home.
- Cappello’s Gluten Free Pizza Crusts – Offered in original or cauliflower versions, thin and crispy.
- Gillian’s Gluten Free Pizza Crust – This crust has just a handful of ingredients and gets high marks for taste.
Using one of these quality store-bought crusts saves time while still letting you personalize with toppings. An added bonus – making them on your own can be cheaper than buying full frozen pizzas.
What Are Some Quick and Easy Gluten-Free Pizza Topping Ideas?
Once you’ve chosen your gluten-free pizza crust, the fun part comes in picking the toppings. Here are some quick and simple ideas for delicious gluten-free pizzas:
- Margherita – Fresh mozzarella cheese, tomato slices and basil.
- Pepperoni – No-brainer classic topping, add some red chili flakes too.
- Veggie Lover’s – Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, tomatoes.
- Hawaiian – Ham, pineapple and sometimes bacon too.
- White Pizza – Olive oil or white sauce instead of marinara, with spinach and chicken.
- BBQ Chicken – BBQ sauce, mozzarella, chicken, red onion and cilantro.
Get creative and use whatever gluten-free toppings appeal to your tastes. Homemade pizzas are also a great way to use up leftovers – try taco pizza with ground beef and Mexican flavors!
What Are Some Other Tips for Making Gluten-Free Pizza at Home?
Here are a few other helpful pointers for successfully crafting gluten-free pizzas at home:
- Pre-bake crust before adding toppings to crisp it up.
- Use parchment paper or a pizza pan/stone for easy transfer.
- Add toppings sparingly to avoid a soggy crust.
- Use shredded mozzarella instead of thick slices for even melting.
- Bake at a high temp (425-450°F) to get a nice crispy bottom.
- Let pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Making your own gluten-free pizza gives you total control over the ingredients. With some trial and error, you can start outdoing your favorite delivery pizza places!
Conclusion
While Freschetta has stepped back from the gluten-free pizza market, there are still ample options for those who need gluten-free pizza in their lives. Brands like Against the Grain, Udi’s and Amy’s all offer quality gluten-free frozen pizzas to replace old favorites like Freschetta. Or get creative in your own kitchen with pre-made gluten-free crusts and homemade toppings. With the right combo of ingredients and preparation, you can make gluten-free pizzas that are just as crave-worthy and delicious as your memories of Freschetta pizzas. Stay vigilant about checking labels, and enjoy the adventure of finding new go-to gluten-free pizzas.
