Is there gluten in Ortega Taco seasoning mix?

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause serious health issues like intestinal damage, malnutrition and chronic inflammation. That’s why it’s critical for anyone with gluten intolerance or allergy to avoid foods containing gluten.

Taco seasoning is a common ingredient used to add flavor to ground beef or chicken to make tacos, burritos, nachos and more. While some taco seasoning mixes are gluten-free, others contain ingredients derived from gluten-containing grains. So an important question for those managing gluten intake is: does Ortega taco seasoning contain gluten?

What is Ortega Taco Seasoning?

Ortega is a popular brand of Mexican-style foods owned by B&G Foods. Their taco seasoning mix comes in a packet or shaker bottle and contains a blend of spices and dried ingredients used to add taco flavoring.

The ingredients in Ortega taco seasoning mix typically include:

– Chili powder
– Crushed red pepper
– Salt
– Onion powder
– Garlic powder
– Cumin
– Oregano
– Citric acid
– Anti-caking agents

Some varieties also contain onions, tomato, sugar, cornstarch, jalapeno pepper, paprika or bouillon.

Does Ortega Taco Seasoning Contain Gluten?

After carefully reviewing the ingredients list and nutritional information, Ortega taco seasoning mixes **do not contain gluten or wheat.** The spices, seasonings and flavors used in Original Ortega taco seasoning are naturally gluten-free.

Here are some key points confirming Ortega taco seasoning is gluten-free:

– The ingredients labels do not list any gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, rye or malt.

– Ortega taco seasoning is labeled “gluten-free” on the packaging.

– The nutritional information states it contains 0g of gluten per serving.

– Ortega’s website states the taco seasoning is “free of gluten ingredients.”

– Reputable gluten intolerance websites have confirmed no gluten in Ortega seasoning.

So people with celiac disease, wheat allergy or who follow a gluten-free diet can safely consume Ortega taco seasoning without worrying about gluten intake.

Ingredients Analysis

To provide more details, here is an analysis of the key ingredients in Original Ortega taco seasoning mix:

Chili Powder

Chili powder seasoning is made by grinding dried chile peppers into powder. Pure chili powder does not contain gluten. However, some types contain added spices for flavor. If those added spices contain gluten, it may be a problem. Ortega uses pure chili powder without gluten-based additives.

Crushed Red Pepper

Crushed red pepper contains dried red chile peppers ground into flakes. No gluten.

Salt

Table salt or sea salt does not contain gluten. Ortega uses plain salt.

Onion Powder

Dehydrated onions ground into powder. Onion powder is gluten-free.

Garlic Powder

Garlic cloves dried and ground into powder. No gluten.

Cumin

Cumin spice comes from the dried seed of the cumin plant. It’s naturally gluten-free.

Oregano

Dried oregano leaves ground into powder. Gluten-free herb.

Citric Acid

Citric acid is an additive used as a preservative. It’s extracted from citrus fruits, not grains, so it’s gluten-free.

Anti-Caking Agents

Anti-caking agents like calcium silicate prevent clumping. They are not grain-based.

Cross-Contamination Risk

Ortega taco seasoning contains no gluten ingredients. However, people with celiac disease need to consider the potential for cross-contamination during manufacturing.

Cross-contamination means gluten could unintentionally come in contact with the product during the production process. This can occur if gluten-containing grains are processed on shared equipment.

To reduce this risk, Ortega states their products undergo quality control checks and cleaning procedures:

– Facilities have dedicated equipment and production lines for gluten-free items. This avoids shared machinery.

– Extensive sanitation protocols are followed, including thorough cleaning between production runs.

– Finished products are tested to verify they meet the quality and safety standards stated on the label.

By following good manufacturing practices, Ortega works to minimize any potential for gluten cross-contamination. However, the brand does not claim to produce the seasoning in a 100% gluten-free facility.

Sensitive individuals should use their own judgment on whether they feel comfortable consuming Ortega taco seasoning considering the possibility of trace gluten. Those highly sensitive may wish to contact the company directly for more details on their safety protocols.

Varieties that Contain Gluten

While standard Ortega taco seasoning is gluten-free, some flavored varieties do contain gluten. These should be avoided by anyone with gluten intolerance:

– Ortega Taco Seasoning with Mild Taco Sauce Mix: contains wheat flour

– Ortega Bourbon BBQ Taco Seasoning Mix: contains wheat flour

– Ortega Bacon Ranch Taco Seasoning Mix: contains wheat flour

Always carefully check the ingredients list since formulations can change over time. Do not assume all Ortega seasoning blends are gluten-safe. Stick to plain Original for a guaranteed gluten-free option.

What About Ortega Taco Shells?

In addition to taco seasoning, Ortega sells pre-made taco shells and kits. These products DO contain gluten:

Taco Shells

Ortega taco shells are made with wheat flour containing gluten.

Taco Dinner Kits

Ortega taco dinner kits include taco seasoning mix plus taco shells that contain wheat.

So while the Ortega seasoning itself is gluten-free, the shells and full dinner kits with shells are NOT gluten-free. The packaging clearly lists wheat as an allergen.

Other Ortega Products

Beyond taco seasoning and shells, Ortega sells other Mexican foods that are labeled gluten-free:

Ortega Product	Gluten-Free
Refried Beans	Yes
Black Beans	Yes
Queso Dip	Yes
Salsa	Yes

However, always verify by carefully reading the label since recipes can evolve over time. Don’t make assumptions.

Is Ortega Taco Seasoning Whole 30 Approved?

The Whole30 diet is a popular 30-day clean eating plan that eliminates gluten, grains, dairy, legumes, sugar and more.

Ortega taco seasoning meets the Whole30 guidelines. It contains no grains, gluten, dairy, legumes, added sugar or other off-limit ingredients. So Ortega’s original taco seasoning mix is permitted on the Whole30 program.

However, the flavored varieties containing wheat flour do not comply with Whole30 rules. Stick to the plain seasoning if following a Whole30 meal plan.

Is Ortega Taco Seasoning Keto?

The keto diet emphasizes low carb eating by restricting carbohydrate intake. Most seasoning blends are keto-friendly since herbs and spices contain minimal carbs and calories.

Ortega taco seasoning certainly complies with a ketogenic diet. The nutrition facts confirm it’s very low in carbs and calories:

Ortega Original Taco Seasoning Mix Nutrition Facts (1 tablespoon):

– 10 calories
– 2g carbs
– 0g fiber
– 0g sugar
– 0g protein

With just 2g net carbs per serving, this seasoning has negligible impact on ketosis. Ortega taco mix can be included in a keto meal plan to add flavor without worrying about carbs.

However, the flavored varieties with added sugar are higher in carbs so double check labels if following keto. Plain seasoning has the best macros for a ketogenic diet.

Is Ortega Taco Seasoning Paleo?

The paleo diet emphasizes eating whole, unprocessed foods like meat, seafood, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Grains, dairy, legumes, refined sugar and sodium are eliminated.

Ortega’s original dry taco seasoning blend is paleo-friendly. It contains no grains or legumes and is dairy-free. The herbs and spices are acceptable on paleo.

However, Ortega’s liquid taco sauce is NOT paleo-approved since it contains cane sugar. Stick with the dry seasoning mix if adhering to a paleo eating plan.

Is Ortega Taco Seasoning Vegan?

Vegans avoid all animal products including meat, dairy, eggs and honey. Some packaged foods contain hidden animal ingredients.

After checking the label, Ortega original taco seasoning is vegan. It is plant-based and contains no detectable animal-derived ingredients.

However, vegans need to avoid the varieties with added cheese or bouillon flavoring since they likely contain milk or meat products. Plain Ortega mix is the safest bet for a vegan diet.

Is Ortega Taco Seasoning Organic & Non-GMO?

Ortega taco seasoning is made with conventional non-organic spices. The seasonings are not certified organic.

The ingredients also do not appear to be non-GMO verified. Ortega taco mix likely contains genetically engineered corn and soy-based spices. Those seeking to avoid GMOs may want to choose organic brands made without GM crops.

Where to Buy Ortega Taco Seasoning

Ortega taco seasoning is stocked at most major supermarkets in the U.S. It’s found in the Mexican food aisle or spice and seasoning section. Stores carrying Ortega products include:

– Walmart
– Target
– Kroger
– Safeway
– Publix
– Albertsons
– Winn-Dixie
– Food Lion

It can also be purchased from online retailers like Amazon or direct from the brand’s website. Ortega offers a store locator to help find local sellers.

When shopping, look for the classic yellow packaging. Choose plain original seasoning to avoid any varieties containing wheat.

Ortega Taco Seasoning Price

Ortega taco seasoning costs approximately $1 to $3 depending on the size:

– 1 oz packet: $1
– 1.25 oz packet: $1
– 2 oz shaker bottle: $2
– 5 oz shaker bottle: $3
– 1 lb jar: $5

The cost per ounce is cheapest when purchasing large containers. But the packets or small shakers are convenient for trying it out before buying a bigger jar.

Store brands are typically a little cheaper than the Ortega name brand. But Ortega has the advantage of being confirmed gluten-free and widely available.

How to Use Ortega Taco Seasoning

Ortega taco seasoning can be used in recipes like:

– Ground beef or turkey taco meat
– Chicken or steak fajitas
– Chicken or vegetarian tacos
– Nachos
– Casseroles
– Taco-style salads
– Burritos or enchiladas

The basic ratio is 1-2 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of ground meat or poultry. For vegan recipes, use the seasoning to flavor beans, lentils, veggies or soy crumbles.

Some specific ways to use Ortega taco seasoning include:

Taco Meat

Add 1-2 packets to 1 lb of ground beef or turkey. Brown the meat then mix in the seasoning.

Taco Shells

Fill hard taco shells with the seasoned taco meat, lettuce, cheese, salsa, etc.

Taco Salad

Top a salad with Ortega-seasoned ground beef or chicken, shredded cheese, beans, chopped tomatoes, avocado.

Nachos

Sprinkle Ortega seasoning on chips before adding taco meat, beans, jalapenos, olives, salsa, melted cheese.

Burrito Bowls

Fill a burrito bowl with rice, black beans, seasoned meat or soy crumbles, corn, salsa, guacamole. Shake on extra Ortega seasoning.

Follow recipe guidelines for exact measurements based on portions. Adjust spice level to taste and add extra toppings like cilantro or lime juice.

Does Ortega Taco Seasoning Go Bad?

When stored properly, Ortega taco seasoning mix can last 2-3 years before the spices and herbs begin to degrade in flavor and aroma. Over time, the oils in the seasonings can go rancid causing a loss of quality.

An open container will lose freshness faster than unopened seasoning packets. To extend shelf life:

– Keep packages sealed until ready to use
– Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity, heat or sunlight
– Avoid contact with moisture which can cause clumping

Discard any taco seasoning that smells musty or shows signs of fading color. Old seasoning may still be safe to consume but won’t provide much flavor. For best results, try to use Ortega products before their expiration date and replace annually for maximum taste.

Conclusion

Ortega makes high quality taco seasoning that can provide authentic Mexican taco flavor to meats, veggies or even crunchy shells. Their original dry taco mix contains no gluten ingredients and is safe for those on a gluten-free diet provided they take basic cross-contamination precautions. Flavored varieties may contain gluten from wheat flour so check labels carefully. Overall, Ortega’s plain taco seasoning is a tasty gluten-free option worth keeping stocked in your pantry.