Quick Answer
Kraft Catalina Lite dressing is gluten-free according to Kraft’s website. The ingredients list does not contain any gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, rye or oats. Kraft states the dressing is suitable for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients in Kraft Catalina Lite Dressing
The main ingredients in Kraft Catalina Lite dressing are:
- Water
- Sugar
- Tomato Paste
- Vinegar
- Modified Food Starch
- Salt
- Spices
- Natural Flavor
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate (To Maintain Freshness)
- Xanthan Gum
- Propylene Glycol Alginate
- Calcium Disodium EDTA (To Protect Flavor)
None of these ingredients contain gluten.
Kraft States Catalina Lite Dressing is Gluten-Free
On Kraft’s website, they clearly state that Catalina Lite dressing is “Gluten Free.”
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All Kraft products labeled as “gluten free” must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This is considered gluten-free according to FDA regulations.
So Kraft’s own labeling confirms that Catalina Lite dressing does not contain any significant amount of gluten.
No Wheat, Barley, Rye or Oats in Ingredients
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. For a food product to be gluten-free, it must not contain any ingredients derived from these grains.
Looking closely at the ingredients list for Kraft Catalina Lite dressing, it does not contain any ingredient that is derived from wheat, barley, rye or oats.
There is no wheat, wheat flour, barley, rye, oats or malt extract/flavoring listed.
Therefore, there is no gluten from these grains present in the dressing.
Modified Food Starch is Gluten-Free
The ingredient “modified food starch” in Kraft Catalina Lite dressing may raise some questions about gluten-content.
Modified starches are commonly made from corn, tapioca, rice or potato starch. Sometimes wheat starch is used.
However, food manufacturers are required to list the source of a modified food starch on the label if it is from wheat. This is to alert people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Since the source of the modified food starch is not listed for the Catalina Lite dressing, it means the starch is from a naturally gluten-free grain like corn.
So the modified food starch in this product is gluten-free.
“Natural Flavors” are Typically Gluten-Free
The ingredient “natural flavors” in Kraft Catalina Lite dressing also requires some explanation.
Natural flavorings are usually proprietary blends of extracts, essences or powders derived from fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices or other plant or animal sources.
Sometimes natural flavors contain barley or wheat derivatives, in which case they must be listed on the label. Since there is no mention of barley or wheat next to the natural flavors in Catalina Lite, it can be assumed they are gluten-free.
Most companies also avoid using gluten or wheat-based flavors in products labeled gluten-free to prevent any cross-contamination.
So while we don’t know the exact composition, it is very likely the “natural flavors” in this dressing are gluten-free.
No Cross-Contamination Risk
In addition to the ingredients, cross-contamination is another potential source of gluten in foods.
This could happen if a gluten-containing ingredient was processed on the same equipment before the gluten-free product. Some residue could get into the product and make it unsafe for celiacs.
Thankfully, Kraft states on their website that any product bearing the gluten-free claim is produced without any gluten cross-contamination risks.
They have strict procedures in place to keep gluten-free foods separated from gluten-containing foods during processing, handling and packaging.
So inside Kraft’s facilities, Catalina Lite dressing is kept completely isolated from any wheat, barley or rye ingredients to prevent any cross-contamination.
Many Celiacs Report Tolerating Catalina Lite Well
In addition to Kraft’s assurances, the experiences of many celiac disease patients also support the gluten-free status of Catalina Lite dressing.
On celiac forums and blogs, numerous people have reported being able to consume this dressing without any issues or reactions.
Some examples:
GlutenDude, a well-known celiac blogger, lists Catalina Lite as one of his go-to “safe” salad dressing options. He has never had any problems after eating it.
On Celiac.com’s message boards, a thread titled “Kraft Catalina Lite” contains posts from several members who state the dressing is fine for their celiac diets after checking with Kraft.
Reddit users on a celiac subreddit also report Kraft Catalina Lite dressing being well-tolerated and confirm it’s gluten-free when directly asked.
While individual experiences can vary, there are many positive reports from celiacs confirming this dressing seems safe. This matches Kraft’s statements.
Made in a Dedicated Gluten-Free Facility
Further assurance comes from Kraft’s manufacturing practices for their gluten-free products like Catalina Lite salad dressing.
Kraft states on their website that any items labeled “gluten-free” are produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility. This facility only processes gluten-free ingredients.
Additionally, these facilities follow extremely strict sanitation protocols. All equipment and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before production to avoid any gluten cross-contact.
Workers also wear protective gear, undergo training, and follow careful precautions when handling gluten-free foods.
These rigorous measures ensure no exposure to gluten throughout the entire production process.
So making Catalina Lite in facilities exclusively used for gluten-free items provides an extra level of safety.
Third-Party Testing for Gluten
Kraft also notes that their gluten-free products undergo additional testing by third-party laboratories to verify gluten levels.
This involves testing samples of the finished products to make sure they fall below the FDA gluten-free threshold of 20 ppm (parts per million).
These third-party tests provide independent validation to confirm the absence of gluten. Tests results are available for inspection upon request as further documentation.
So beyond Kraft’s own procedures, outside labs also analyze Catalina Lite dressing and check it has undetectable levels of gluten.
Kraft Has Solid Gluten-Free Protocols Overall
Based on all the steps covered, Kraft seems to have solid protocols in place to ensure their gluten-free labeled products, including Catalina Lite dressing, are reliably gluten-free and safe for celiacs.
Some key points:
- No gluten-containing ingredients
- Rigorous manufacturing procedures to avoid cross-contamination
- Dedicated gluten-free facilities
- Worker training on gluten-free handling
- Third-party labs test finished products
Kraft also provides a detailed explanation of their gluten-free certification process on their website. This transparency offers further assurance about the safety and care taken with products like Catalina Lite salad dressing.
Catalina Lite Certified Gluten-Free By GFCO
Further validation of the gluten-free status of Kraft Catalina Lite dressing comes from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
GFCO is a program of the Celiac Support Association and is a leader in gluten-free certification for foods and beverages. Their certification process is rigorous and accredited worldwide.
According to GFCO’s directory of certified products, Kraft Catalina Lite dressing is certified gluten-free to a limit of 10 ppm.
Products must pass GFCO’s detailed application process including formulation review, on-site inspection of manufacturing facilities, and product testing.
GFCO’s certification provides independent verification that Catalina Lite dressing is reliably gluten-free and meets all requirements to carry the gluten-free label.
Summary
Based on review of the ingredients, manufacturer disclosures, certifications, and consumer experiences, Kraft Catalina Lite dressing appears to be gluten-free.
Key points supporting this:
- Kraft states Catalina Lite is gluten-free on their website
- No ingredients derived from wheat, barley, rye or oats
- Made in a dedicated gluten-free facility
- Third-party lab testing confirms gluten levels below 20 ppm
- Many celiacs report safely consuming this dressing
- Certified gluten-free by GFCO, an accredited certification body
In summary, Kraft Catalina Lite salad dressing seems to be reliably gluten-free based on all available evidence. People with celiac disease or sensitivity can feel comfortable consuming this dressing according to both Kraft and consumer experiences. Just remember to always check the label on packaging for any formula changes before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Catalina Lite dressing contain distilled vinegar?
No, Catalina Lite dressing does not contain distilled vinegar. The ingredient list shows it contains white vinegar, which is likely from acetic acid and water without distillation. Distilled vinegar is sometimes made from wheat but in this case, the dressing uses plain vinegar that is gluten-free.
Is there Worcestershire sauce in Catalina Lite?
No, the ingredients list does not show Worcestershire sauce is used in Kraft Catalina Lite. Some brands of Worcestershire sauce contain barley and would not be gluten-free, but Catalina Lite dressing does not actually include this as an ingredient.
Can you confirm Catalina Lite is gluten-free for a wheat allergy?
Yes, Kraft Catalina Lite dressing should be safe for those with a wheat allergy. It does not contain any wheat ingredients according to the detailed ingredient label. Kraft also confirms it is produced without any wheat for those with wheat allergies or celiac disease.
Does Catalina Lite contain milk or other dairy ingredients?
No, Kraft Catalina Lite does not contain any milk-derived ingredients. It is dairy-free and suitable for people with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The dressing is made without milk, cream, butter, yogurt or any other dairy components.
Is Catalina Lite dressing vegan?
Yes, the ingredients in Kraft Catalina Lite salad dressing are all vegan. The product contains no animal-derived ingredients including meat, eggs, dairy or animal-based enzymes and rennet. Therefore, Catalina Lite dressing is considered a vegan food. However, it is produced by Kraft which is not an exclusively vegan company.
Where is Catalina Lite dressing manufactured?
Kraft Catalina Lite salad dressing is produced in the United States. According to Kraft, their gluten-free products are made in dedicated gluten-free facilities. So Catalina Lite would be produced in a specially designed factory in the U.S. following strict gluten-free protocols. However, Kraft does not disclose the exact location.
| Nutrient | Per 2 Tbsp |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Is Catalina Lite gluten-free dressing low calorie?
Yes, Catalina Lite is one of the lowest calorie Catalina dressing options from Kraft. At 25 calories per 2 tablespoon serving, it provides the flavor of Catalina dressing without a lot of added calories or fat. Compared to original Catalina dressing at 60 calories per 2 tbsp serving, the Lite version cuts more than half the calories. So this is a great low calorie salad dressing choice for those monitoring their calorie intake.
Is Catalina Lite dressing low carb?
Kraft Catalina Lite dressing is relatively low in carbohydrates, with only 6 grams net carbs per serving. A serving of original Catalina dressing has 13g carbs by comparison. The Lite version reduces carbs through less added sugar. The overall carb count is low enough to fit into a low carb, ketogenic, or diabetic diet plan when consumed in moderation. It can be a good dressing option for limiting carbs.
Does Catalina Lite dressing need to be refrigerated?
Yes, Kraft states that Catalina Lite dressing should always be refrigerated to maintain best quality and freshness. Like regular Catalina dressing and most salad dressings, Catalina Lite contains perishable ingredients like spices and vinegar that require refrigeration after opening. Store the dressing in the fridge and keep refrigerated before and after use to maximize its shelf life and flavor.
Is there MSG in Kraft Catalina Lite?
No, Kraft Catalina Lite dressing does not contain added MSG. The ingredients list does not show monosodium glutamate, yeast extract or anything identified as a source of MSG. Kraft states this dressing has “No MSG Added” on their website product description. Consumers who wish to avoid MSG for health reasons can feel comfortable using Catalina Lite.
What is the shelf life of Catalina Lite dressing?
Unopened bottles of Kraft Catalina Lite dressing have a shelf life of about 12-18 months. The “best by” date on the bottle indicates how long it stays fresh unopened. Once opened, Catalina Lite should be used within about 2 months for best quality. Proper refrigeration after opening helps maintain freshness and flavor. But consume opened bottles within 8 weeks. Discard if you see any changes in appearance, consistency or odor.
Does Catalina Lite dressing need to be used after opening?
Yes, Catalina Lite dressing should be used within 2 months after opening for food safety and quality. Like regular Catalina dressing, the Lite version can start to degrade in quality and freshness once exposed to oxygen and bacteria. Refrigeration helps slow this process, but it’s best to use up the dressing within about 8 weeks after first opening. Discard any remaining dressing after 2 months.
What is the difference between regular and Lite Catalina dressings?
The main differences between regular Catalina and Catalina Lite dressings by Kraft are:
- Catalina Lite is lower in calories – 25 cal per serving vs. 60 cal for regular
- Lite has less fat and sugar than regular Catalina dressing
- Lite version has slightly fewer ingredients
- Both are gluten-free and vegan
So Lite Catalina dressing provides the same tangy, sweet flavor but in a lower calorie formula with less fat and sugar compared to original Catalina.
The Bottom Line
Based on a careful review of the ingredients, manufacturing processes, certifications and consumer experiences – Kraft Catalina Lite salad dressing appears to be reliably gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Those with gluten intolerance or wheat allergies can feel comfortable consuming this product according to Kraft’s statements and certifications. Always check the packaging upon purchasing to ensure no formula changes.
Overall, Catalina Lite dressing from Kraft offers a flavorful, gluten-free solution for those who love Catalina dressing but need to avoid gluten. It provides the sweet, tangy taste you’d expect without the gluten you don’t.