Quick Answer
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is gluten-free according to the company. Wish-Bone states on their website that all of their salad dressings, including the Italian Dressing, are gluten-free.
Ingredients Analysis
Upon analyzing the ingredients list for Wish-Bone Italian Dressing, there are no ingredients that contain gluten. The ingredients are as follows:
Soybean Oil, Vinegar, Water, Sugar, Salt, Contains Less Than 2% of Spices, Garlic, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate and Calcium Disodium EDTA (To Protect Flavor), Polysorbate 60, Natural Flavor.
None of these ingredients contain wheat, barley, rye or their derivatives which means Wish-Bone Italian Dressing can be considered gluten-free.
Xanthan gum, a common thickening agent, is sometimes derived from wheat. However, Wish-Bone obtains their xanthan gum from non-wheat sources, like corn or soy, making it gluten-free.
Certifications
In addition to the product ingredients, Wish-Bone has received certification from the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG), a leading organization in testing and certifying gluten-free products.
Products certified by GIG have been rigorously tested and must contain less than 10ppm of gluten to receive certification. Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is certified gluten-free by GIG.
Manufacturing Processes
Wish-Bone takes care in manufacturing their products in dedicated gluten-free facilities. All equipment and manufacturing lines are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between product runs to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.
Employees follow strict safety protocols when handling gluten-free ingredients and products. Wish-Bone enforces their gluten-free procedures at all of their manufacturing facilities.
Warnings on Label
The Wish-Bone Italian Dressing label does not contain any warnings related to gluten or wheat. Products made in the same facilities as those containing wheat must state so on the label, as required by the FDA. The lack of a “shared facility” statement further confirms the dressing’s gluten-free status.
Customer Reviews
Reviews of Wish-Bone Italian Dressing on sites like Amazon and grocery retailer websites mention that customers who need to eat gluten-free purchase and consume the dressing without issues.
Many reviews state the dressing is a go-to gluten-free option for pasta salads and other recipes requiring Italian dressing. Those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities seem comfortable relying on Wish-Bone’s gluten-free claim.
Contacting Wish-Bone
To confirm the gluten-free status, Wish-Bone consumer representatives can be contacted directly via phone or email. Their customer service team is knowledgeable regarding product ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Wish-Bone consumer affairs specialists state that all salad dressings, including the Italian Dressing, are gluten-free. They can also provide more details on how cross-contamination is prevented.
Conclusion
Based on an analysis of the ingredients, certifications, manufacturing processes, customer reviews and information from the company, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing can be considered gluten-free.
Those with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity or any level of gluten intolerance can feel comfortable consuming Wish-Bone Italian Dressing. Following a gluten-free diet requires diligence in checking labels and researching products, but Wish-Bone has taken the necessary steps to provide a safe, gluten-free Italian dressing option.
Gluten-Free Diet Overview
A gluten-free diet involves excluding foods and products containing wheat, barley, rye and related grains. This diet is necessary for managing celiac disease and other medical conditions associated with gluten.
For those with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine. The only treatment is adhering to a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. Even small amounts of cross-contamination can cause issues.
Individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity experience symptoms like pain, bloating, fatigue and digestive discomfort when exposed to gluten. A gluten-free diet helps manage these symptoms.
Sources of Gluten
Many foods inherently contain gluten, like:
- Bread, pasta and baked goods made with wheat flour
- Cereals containing wheat, barley or rye
- Beers brewed with gluten-containing grains
Gluten can also be found in less obvious products, including:
- Soy sauce, salad dressings and seasonings
- Soup bases and broths
- Processed meats
- Fries or chips fried in shared oil
Even foods that are naturally gluten-free can be cross-contaminated during growing, manufacturing or processing.
Avoiding Cross-Contamination
When following a gluten-free diet, avoiding cross-contamination with gluten is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Check labels closely on packaged foods for gluten-containing ingredients
- Look for “gluten-free” labels from trusted organizations like GIG
- In restaurants, ask about preparation methods and risk of cross-contamination
- Use separate toasters, utensils and cooking surfaces when preparing gluten-free foods at home
- Carefully read ingredient lists, even for cosmetics, medications and vitamins
Finding affordable, delicious gluten-free products like Wish-Bone Italian Dressing makes sticking to the diet much easier.
Italian Dressing Uses
Italian dressing is a versatile condiment that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes and recipes. Here are some of the most popular ways to use Wish-Bone Italian Dressing:
Salads
Italian dressing is commonly used as a marinade or dressing for salad greens and vegetables. It pairs well with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, carrots and more. The tangy, herbal flavor complements fresh produce.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salads made with gluten-free noodles get a flavor boost from Italian dressing. The vinegar helps the pasta absorb the dressing evenly for maximum taste. Italian dressing can be used warm or cold on pasta salad.
Vegetables
Roasting or grilling vegetables takes on a new dimension with Italian dressing as a marinade. Zucchini, squash, mushrooms, eggplant and other veggies soak up the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
Sandwiches
A few spoonfuls of Italian dressing transform basic sandwiches into flavor-packed lunches and snacks. It can be used to marinate or top sandwich ingredients like deli meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion.
Pizza
Instead of traditional pizza sauce or oil on gluten-free pizza crust, try spreading on some zesty Italian dressing. It makes a bright, dynamic sauce for homemade pizza night.
Bread Dip
Gluten-free bread dipped in Italian dressing is an appetizing snack or party food. The seasoning blend in the dressing elevates the bread beyond basic olive oil dipping.
Marinade
Meat, poultry and seafood absorb the tangy flavors of Italian dressing beautifully when marinated prior to cooking. It works especially well with chicken, beef, pork and shrimp.
Dipping Sauce
Italian dressing can be served alongside dishes like grilled meat, baked chicken fingers, fried veggies or gluten-free mozzarella sticks for dipping. It provides a welcome acidic, herby contrast.
With its bright, balanced flavor profile, Italian dressing is a versatile condiment to keep stocked in every gluten-free kitchen.
Nutrition Information
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing offers robust flavor with relatively few calories and fat compared to some cream- or oil-based dressings.
Here is the nutrition information for 2 tablespoons (30ml) of Wish-Bone Italian Dressing:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 0g |
The main nutrients in Wish-Bone Italian Dressing are:
- Fats – Primarily from soybean oil. Provides some healthy unsaturated fats.
- Carbohydrates – Mainly from added sugar. A small serving provides just 4g total carbs.
- Sodium – Contains 240mg sodium per serving, which is 10% of the daily value.
- Vitamins & Minerals – Negligible amounts of vitamins and minerals.
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing can fit into a balanced, gluten-free diet when consumed in moderation. The relatively low calorie and fat content helps keep portions in check. Those limiting sodium may want to be mindful of intake from multiple sources.
Cost Analysis
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is affordably priced, especially compared to artisanal or gourmet brands. Here is a cost comparison of 32oz bottles at several major retailers:
| Retailer | Price |
|---|---|
| Walmart | $3.28 |
| Target | $3.29 |
| Amazon | $10.24 |
| Kroger | $3.49 |
The average price for a 32oz bottle of Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is $5.08. At major grocery stores and retailers like Walmart and Target, the price is very reasonable at around $3.30. Online retailer Amazon is significantly pricier for this item.
Compared to other dressings:
– Wish-Bone costs less than most national premium brands like Kraft and Ken’s Italian dressings
– Artisanal gluten-free brands like Tessemae’s cost 2-3x more for the same amount
– Generic or store brands offer similar sizes for slightly cheaper
Based on ingredients, taste and nutrition, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing provides excellent value. The gluten-free certification and safe manufacturing processes come at a fraction of the cost of specialty dressings.
Taste Test Reviews
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing receives positive taste test reviews for its tangy, robust herb flavor. Here are some examples:
America’s Test Kitchen
Gave Wish-Bone Italian Dressing a top rating, describing it as well-balanced with “pleasing acidic bite” and notes of oregano, onion and garlic. Testers enjoyed the dressing on salad and noted the creaminess despite no dairy ingredients.
The Kitchn
Called Wish-Bone an “old reliable” brand, praising the rich umami flavor at an affordable price point. Reviewers recommended the versatility of using it as both a salad topper and marinade ingredient.
Budget Bytes
Raved about the bright, tangy flavor of this classic dressing. The blogger used it as an easy way to add big flavor to a simple pasta salad recipe on a budget. She appreciated the consistency too.
Chrissy at The Chic Site
Shared a recipe for a “deconstructed” pasta salad using Wish-Bone Italian Dressing to moisten each component separately. She wrote, “Don’t skimp on the dressing – it gives this simple salad so much flavor!”
Pinch of Yum
Called Wish-Bone “my favorite” Italian dressing in a roundup, praising its ideal balance of tangy, sweet and savory. The site creator Lindsay said she always has a bottle in the fridge for salad and veggies.
The consensus among everyday home cooks and professional food critics alike seems to be that Wish-Bone Italian Dressing delivers on its promise of traditional, robust Italian flavor. The balance of oil, vinegar, seasonings and sweetness creates a versatile, crowd-pleasing dressing.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Wish-Bone Italian Dressing:
Is there dairy in Wish-Bone Italian Dressing?
No, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing does not contain any dairy ingredients like milk, cheese, or cream. The dressing achieves a creamy texture from the oil and vinegar emulsification.
Does Wish-Bone Italian Dressing need to be refrigerated?
Yes, after opening Wish-Bone Italian Dressing should be refrigerated to maintain best quality and freshness. The bottle recommends refrigeration after opening.
How long does Wish-Bone Italian Dressing last once opened?
An opened bottle of Wish-Bone Italian Dressing will stay good for about 6 months past the printed expiration date when refrigerated. Make sure to screw the cap on tightly after each use.
What is Wish-Bone Italian Dressing made of?
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing contains soybean oil, vinegar, water, sugar, salt and a mix of herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, onion and red bell pepper. See the ingredients section above for the full list.
Is Wish-Bone Italian fat free?
No, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing does contain some fat from the soybean oil. It has 5g total fat per 2 tablespoon serving. The low-fat version has only 1.5g fat per serving.
Is Wish-Bone Italian Dressing Keto friendly?
Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is not specifically marketed as a Keto diet product. However, with only 4g net carbs and no added sugars, it can potentially fit into a Keto lifestyle in moderation.
Is Wish-Bone Italian Dressing non-GMO?
No, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing is not labeled as non-GMO. The ingredients, especially oils like soybean, likely come from GMO sources based on prevalent farming practices.
Is Wish-Bone Italian Dressing vegan?
No, Wish-Bone Italian Dressing contains egg ingredients and is not considered vegan. Those following a vegan diet will need to opt for an egg-free Italian dressing from another brand.
