Little Smokies are a popular snack food, consisting of small smoked sausages or wieners wrapped in dough. They make for a quick and easy snack to eat by themselves or in appetizers. However, for those who need to avoid gluten due to celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, it’s important to find Little Smokies that are made without gluten-containing ingredients. Several major brands offer gluten free varieties of Little Smokies, giving consumers more options.
What is gluten and why do some need to avoid it?
Gluten is a group of proteins found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For most people, gluten does not cause any issues when consumed. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine. This can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fatigue, and more. The only treatment is to completely avoid all foods and products containing gluten. This includes most breads, cereals, pastas, baked goods, and even some sauces, seasonings, and other processed foods.
Reading ingredient labels carefully and looking for “gluten free” labeling has become extremely important for those requiring a gluten free diet. Even small amounts of gluten from cross-contamination can be problematic. Following a strict gluten free diet is challenging but essential for managing these conditions.
Should those without celiac disease or gluten sensitivity choose gluten free foods?
For those without gluten-related conditions, there is little evidence that adopting a gluten free diet provides health benefits. Gluten free versions of foods often have more calories, fat, and carbs than regular varieties. They may also lack certain vitamins and minerals unless fortified. Some people try eliminating gluten to see if it improves digestion issues or other symptoms, but studies show mixed results.
Unless diagnosed with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, most experts recommend sticking to a regular, balanced diet. However, those who suspect they may have a gluten-related condition should talk to their doctor about testing and treatment options. Diagnosing these conditions as soon as possible helps prevent long-term complications.
What brands of Little Smokies are labeled gluten free?
Several major brands now offer gluten free Little Smokies, giving more choices to consumers who need to avoid gluten. Here are some of the leading brands and products currently available:
Hormel
– Hormel Natural Choice® Gluten Free Smokies
– Hormel® Always Tender® Gluten Free Smokies
The Hormel Natural Choice sausages contain no MSG, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. The Always Tender variety features uncured ham and turkey smokies. Both are certified gluten free to less than 20 parts per million.
Hillshire Farm
– Hillshire Farm® Naturals® Gluten Free Lit’l Smokies
– Hillshire Farm® Lit’l Smokies® Gluten Free
These smokies from Hillshire Farm contain no preservatives or artificial flavors. The Naturals sausages are uncured. Both products are labeled certified gluten free.
Butterball
– Butterball® Gluten Free Turkey Smokies
– Butterball® Gluten Free Lit’l Smokies
Butterball’s gluten free smokies are made from turkey and contain no MSG, fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives. They are certified gluten free to less than 20 ppm.
Armour
– Armour® Gluten Free Smokies
Armour’s gluten free smokies contain no MSG or artificial ingredients. They are labeled gluten free to less than 20 ppm.
Al Fresco
– Al Fresco® Chicken Sausage Gluten Free Mini Smokies
These spicy mini chicken smokies from Al Fresco are certified gluten free and contain no nitrites.
Aidells
– Aidells® Smoked Andouille Sausage Gluten Free
Aidells’ andouille sausage links are gluten and casein free. They contain no MSG or artificial ingredients.
Johnsonville
– Johnsonville® Gluten Free Breakfast Pork Sausage Links
Johnsonville’s breakfast sausage links are made with pork and gluten free spices. They contain no MSG.
What ingredients make Little Smokies not gluten free?
Most classic Little Smokies contain wheat flour or wheat gluten as a major ingredient. The wheat provides structure and texture to the dough wrapped around the sausage. Consequently, traditional Little Smokies are not gluten free unless specifically labeled.
Other problematic ingredients may include:
– Barley malt
– Rye
– Brewer’s yeast
– Malt vinegar
– Soy sauce or teriyaki flavoring (may contain wheat)
– Certain seasonings and spices containing gluten
Carefully reading the full ingredient list is necessary when choosing gluten free foods. Even seasoning blends can sometimes contain gluten.
Are gluten free Little Smokies nutritionally comparable to regular varieties?
When comparing brands, the nutritional content of gluten free Little Smokies is generally similar to regular varieties. Some factors that may differ:
– **Calories:** Gluten free products sometimes have slightly more calories than regular versions if substituting ingredients like rice flour for wheat flour.
– **Fiber:** Most gluten free doughs contain less fiber than whole wheat doughs. Added vegetables may increase fiber.
– **Protein:** Depending on the type and amount of meat, protein content varies. Some gluten free sausages contain additional meat to match regular protein levels.
– **Fat:** Fat content depends on the type and cut of meat used. Light variations will be leaner.
– **Sodium:** Gluten free smokies typically contain similar sodium levels to regular smokies. Compare brands to find lower sodium options if needed.
– **Sugars:** Sugar levels are generally low in Little Smokies but may slightly differ between products.
– **Vitamins and minerals:** Gluten free flours lack some B vitamins unless fortified. Check nutrition labels for added vitamins and minerals.
Those following gluten free diets often need to pay special attention to nutrients like iron, folate, fiber, and calcium that gluten free products may lack. Supplements or substituting naturally gluten free whole grains like rice, corn, and millet can help boost nutrition.
What other gluten free sausage options are available?
Beyond Little Smokies, a growing number of sausage products are now offered gluten free:
Breakfast sausages
Many brands like Hormel, Jones, Applegate, and Wellshire Farms offer gluten free breakfast sausage links and patties. Pork, turkey, chicken, and plant-based varieties are available.
Andouille and smoked sausage
Cajun-style andouille and smoked sausage links from Aidells, Zenner’s, and Creole Country are gluten free options. These work well for jambalaya, gumbo, and other dishes.
Bratwursts and italian sausage
Gluten free bratwurst and italian sausage varieties make it easier to enjoy sandwiches, pasta dishes, and more. Brands like Premio, Teton Waters Ranch, and Olli support gluten free diets.
Hot dogs and frankfurters
Nathan’s Famous, Hebrew National, Butterball, and Boar’s Head all offer gluten free hot dogs. Bun options are also expanding.
Chicken sausage and kielbasa
Aidells, Al Fresco, and Wellshire Farms have gluten free chicken sausages. Zenner’s and Jones both make kielbasa.
Plant-based sausage
Major plant-based brands like Beyond Meat, Impossible, Field Roast, and Tofurky offer an array of gluten free meatless sausages.
What are some recipe ideas using gluten free Little Smokies?
Gluten free Little Smokies can be used to make all sorts of delicious appetizers and meals:
Gluten Free Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon
– Ingredients: Gluten free little smokies, bacon strips, brown sugar, honey, molasses or maple syrup for basting (optional)
– Directions: Cut bacon strips in half. Wrap one piece around each smokie and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on a baking sheet and optionally brush with maple syrup or other glaze. Bake at 400°F for 15-25 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
Gluten Free Mini Smokies Crescent Bites
– Ingredients: Gluten free mini smokies, crescent roll dough (gluten free brand), diced bell pepper, shredded cheese
– Directions: Roll out crescent dough into a rectangle. Add mini smokies, peppers, and cheese in a line down the center. Seal into a log shape, cut into slices, and bake as directed.
Gluten Free Smoked Sausage Jambalaya
– Ingredients: Brown rice, celery, onion, bell pepper, gluten free smoked sausage, Cajun seasoning, chicken broth
– Directions: Cook rice. Saute veggies and sausage. Add broth, rice, and seasoning. Simmer until liquid is absorbed.
Gluten Free Smokies Mac and Cheese
– Ingredients: Gluten free macaroni, milk, cheese, gluten free smokies, parsley
– Directions: Cook macaroni, make cheese sauce. Stir in chopped smokies and parsley. Transfer to baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake.
Gluten Free Pizza Dip
– Ingredients: Cream cheese, pizza sauce, shredded cheese, pepperoni, gluten free sausage, pizza seasonings
– Directions: Layer cream cheese, sauce, cheeses, pepperoni, and sausage in baking dish. Bake until hot and bubbly. Serve with gluten free bread or vegetables.
Where can I find gluten free Little Smokies and sausage in stores?
Gluten free Little Smokies and sausages can be found in the refrigerated meat section at many major grocery chains such as:
– Kroger
– Publix
– Safeway
– Albertsons
– Stop & Shop
– Giant
– Hy-Vee
– Meijer
– HEB
– Wegmans
Natural food stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Trader Joe’s also carry several brands. Gluten free specialty products may be together in one section or alongside regular varieties. Always check labels carefully.
Online retailers like Amazon, Vitacost, Walmart, and Thrive Market offer home delivery options for many national brands. Smaller gluten free brands can often be purchased directly from their websites as well. Signing up for retailer email lists may provide notifications of sales or coupons on gluten free items.
Are there any safety concerns with gluten free meats like sausage?
When manufactured safely, gluten free meats and sausages from reputable brands do not carry higher safety risks compared to regular varieties. Any raw meats still require safe handling, cooking, and storage to prevent illness.
A few general meat safety tips include:
– Cook sausages and smokies thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F.
– Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days.
– Wash hands, cooking tools, dishes, and surfaces that touch raw meats. Avoid cross-contamination.
– Check “sell by” and “use by” dates and follow proper freezer storage times.
– Reheat cooked meats to 165°F.
As long as good food safety practices are followed, gluten free sausage and smokie options can be enjoyed without added risk. Those at higher risk of foodborne illness like young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weak immune systems may take extra precautions like avoiding undercooked meats.
What are the best practices for avoiding cross-contamination with gluten free sausage products?
When cooking at home, take steps to prevent cross-contamination of gluten free foods with gluten sources:
– Designate gluten free cooking tools like colanders, pots and pans, utensils, etc. Avoid sharing with gluten-containing foods.
– Use separate condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo to prevent contact with gluten bread crumbs or other sources.
– Clean cooking surfaces thoroughly before prepping gluten free items.
– When grilling, use foil or clean platters to keep gluten free sausages separated from buns or other foods with gluten.
– Handle gluten free raw products first before handling any wheat-based products if cooking both.
– Use fresh water to boil gluten free pasta or grains. Avoid reusing cooking liquid that may be cross-contaminated.
– Store gluten free flours, grains, and other ingredients in sealed containers away from regular wheat flours and bread products.
– Wipe down toaster oven trays thoroughly between uses if making gluten free toast.
Caution at home helps limit unwanted exposures. When dining out, check that restaurants have proper protocols in place to avoid cross-contact for gluten free orders.
What are some kid-friendly ideas for enjoying gluten free Little Smokies?
Here are family-friendly recipes using gluten free Little Smokies that kids will love:
Gluten Free Corn Dog Mummies
– Ingredients: Gluten free corn dogs, crescent roll dough (gluten free brand), yellow mustard, ketchup
– Directions: Wrap corn dogs in crescent dough like mummy wraps. Bake until golden. Use mustard and ketchup for “eyes and blood.”
Campfire Stew in Mini Cauldrons
– Ingredients: Ground beef, potatoes, carrots, peas, corn, gluten free smokies, chicken broth
– Directions: Simmer stew ingredients in a cast iron skillet. Serve stew in mini cast iron pots or ramekins with slices of gluten free smokies for “bones.”
Gluten Free Smokie Hand Pizzas
– Ingredients: Gluten free English muffins, pizza sauce, cheese, pepperoni, gluten free smokies
– Directions: Top muffin halves with sauce, cheese, toppings. Use sliced smokie “fingers” as a crust edge. Bake until cheese melts.
Gluten Free Smokie Monsters
– Ingredients: Gluten free smokies, gluten free stuffing, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese
– Directions: Stuff smokies with stuffing mixture. Top with sauce, cheese, and olive eyes for funny faces. Bake until hot.
Making eating fun encourages kids to try new gluten free foods. Use cookie cutters for shaping breads, muffins, sandwiches, fruits, veggies, and more into fun shapes. Create food art together, too.
Conclusion
Following a gluten free diet requires adjusting cooking and shopping habits, but the growing range of gluten free products makes this much easier. Brands like Hormel, Hillshire Farm, Butterball, Armour, and more now offer Little Smokies labeled gluten free for convenience. Carefully reading labels remains necessary to confirm ingredients. With some adaptations to recipes and meal planning, gluten free Little Smokies and other sausages can be enjoyed safely by the entire family.
