Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people avoiding gluten for medical reasons or by choice. For those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. The only treatment is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. For others, going gluten-free is a lifestyle choice that eliminates wheat, barley and rye from their diets.
With the rising popularity of gluten-free eating, many food manufacturers have responded by offering more gluten-free options. Healthy Choice is one such brand that has a line of gluten-free frozen meals and entrees.
About Healthy Choice
Healthy Choice is a brand of frozen meals and packaged foods owned by ConAgra Foods. It was first introduced in 1989 as a lower calorie, lower fat alternative to traditional frozen meals and entrees. Healthy Choice markets their products as a convenient way to eat healthfully without sacrificing taste.
Over the years, Healthy Choice has expanded their product line to keep up with food trends and dietary needs. This includes adding a selection of gluten-free meals and entrees as the demand for gluten-free foods increased.
Gluten-Free Options from Healthy Choice
Healthy Choice offers a variety of gluten-free frozen meals across different product lines. Here are some of their popular gluten-free choices:
Healthy Choice Simply Steamers
The Healthy Choice Simply Steamers line features single-serve steam meals in microwaveable bowls. There are several gluten-free options:
- Lemon Dill Salmon
- Cilantro Lime Verde Chicken
- Italian-Style Chicken
- Chicken Fajita Bowl
Healthy Choice Cafe Steamers
The Cafe Steamers line also contains gluten-free meal choices including:
- Lemon Chicken Piccata
- Chicken Margherita
- Chicken Carbonara
- Chicken Parmesan
Healthy Choice Power Bowls
The Healthy Choice Power Bowls are grain bowl meals made with superfood grains and veggies. The following bowls are gluten-free:
- Southwest Style Chicken Bowl
- Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi Bowl
Ingredients and Preparation
When preparing their gluten-free meals, Healthy Choice avoids ingredients like wheat, barley, rye, and malt. They also take precautions against cross-contamination in their manufacturing facilities.
However, it’s important to note that Healthy Choice meals are produced in shared facilities that also process wheat and gluten. The brand cannot guarantee 100% gluten-free status, so their gluten-free options are more suitable for people with mild gluten sensitivity versus celiac disease which requires a completely gluten-free diet.
Healthy Choice gluten-free meals contain all-natural ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Meals come in microwave-safe packaging for quick and easy preparation at home. Simply remove from freezer and microwave as directed on package.
Nutrition Information
Healthy Choice gluten-free meals provide balanced nutrition in line with their brand promise. Meals are lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to similar gluten-containing frozen meals.
As examples, here is the nutrition information for two Healthy Choice gluten-free meals:
Meal | Serving Size | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lemon Dill Salmon | 1 meal (283g) | 270 | 8 | 24 | 26 |
Chicken Margherita | 1 meal (283g) | 210 | 6 | 12 | 24 |
As you can see, calories, fat, carbs and sodium are kept low while protein is provided in ample amounts. This balances nutrition for a healthy gluten-free meal.
Where to Buy Healthy Choice Gluten-Free
Healthy Choice gluten-free frozen meals are sold at major grocery stores and supermarket chains nationwide. They can be found in the frozen food aisle alongside other Healthy Choice products.
Many stores also carry Healthy Choice meals in their gluten-free or specialty diet frozen food sections. Check the natural foods freezer section as well for gluten-free choices.
You can also purchase Healthy Choice gluten-free entrees online from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target and more. This is a convenient way to get Healthy Choice delivered straight to your door.
Cost of Healthy Choice Gluten-Free Meals
Healthy Choice gluten-free meals cost between $3.50-$5.00 per meal on average. The Cafe Steamers line tends to be more expensive, priced over $5 in many stores. Healthy Choice Simply Steamers and Power Bowls are typically under $4.
Prices do vary between retailers. You can often save by purchasing larger multi-packs or cases of Healthy Choice meals from warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club. Coupons and promotions from Healthy Choice and grocery stores can also help lower the cost.
While more expensive than homemade meals, Healthy Choice provides an affordable and convenient gluten-free option for busy lifestyles. The price reflects the high-quality natural ingredients and preparation compared to cheaper generic frozen meals.
Reviews of Healthy Choice Gluten-Free
Most reviews of Healthy Choice gluten-free meals are positive, with happy customers noting the good taste and variety of entrees. Even picky eaters seem satisfied with the gluten-free options.
Negative reviews are uncommon but when present, generally critique the smaller meal portions or higher sodium content. Overall though, most agree Healthy Choice offers an appetizing and nutritious gluten-free solution for hurried weeknight dinners or easy work lunches.
Here are some example reviews of the gluten-free Healthy Choice Power Bowls:
“These are so delicious! Way better tasting than other frozen meals and nice to get some protein from the sausage and chicken. The gnocchi is perfectly cooked too.”
“I like having a quick gluten-free meal for days when I’m busy with work and family. These Power Bowls actually taste good unlike a lot of other frozen gluten-free food.”
“Wish there was a bit more food for the price but the taste is great and I love that Healthy Choice has gluten-free choices now.”
Conclusion
Healthy Choice offers a variety of gluten-free frozen meals and entrees to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. Choices range from simple steamer bowls and entrees to more premium cafe-style meals, all prepared with natural ingredients and balanced nutrition in mind.
While not 100% gluten-free, Healthy Choice meals are produced carefully to avoid cross-contamination and work well for most with non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The meals provide a tasty and convenient gluten-free option for busy lifestyles.
Healthy Choice gluten-free products can be purchased at most major supermarkets and retailers at a reasonable price point compared to other pre-made frozen meals. Customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising both the taste and availability of Healthy Choice gluten-free choices.
So for those seeking an easy gluten-free weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go, Healthy Choice offers a delicious solution that doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition. Their growing selection of gluten-free meals makes healthy eating more possible for gluten-free lifestyles.