Is Schneider’s Bacon Gluten Free?

Bacon is a popular breakfast food that many people enjoy. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, determining if bacon is safe can be tricky. One common Canadian bacon brand is Schneider’s. So, is Schneider’s bacon gluten free?

What is Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, their immune system attacks the small intestine, leading to damage and inability to absorb nutrients

Symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, weight loss and anemia. The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict lifelong gluten free diet. Even small amounts of cross contamination can cause issues.

Gluten sensitivity or intolerance is when someone experiences symptoms after eating gluten, but does not test positive for celiac disease.

Is Bacon Usually Gluten Free?

Most pure bacon contains no gluten ingredients. Bacon is simply cured and smoked pork belly meat. However, bacon can become contaminated with gluten during processing or handling:

• Flour may be used on surfaces or utensils to prevent sticking
• Shared slicers, cutters and other equipment may transfer gluten
• Marinades, rubs or flavorings could contain gluten ingredients

So while pure bacon is gluten free, cross contamination is possible Those with celiac disease need to choose bacon processed in a gluten free facility

Is Schneider’s Bacon Specifically Labeled Gluten Free?

Schneider’s is a popular Canadian bacon brand. Most Schneider’s bacon varieties do not make a gluten free claim. However Schneider’s Country Naturals bacon is certified gluten free by the Canadian Celiac Association.

The Schneider’s Country Naturals packaging features the Canadian Celiac Association gluten free logo:

![Canadian Celiac Association Gluten Free Certification Logo][]

This certification means an independent organization has tested the products and facility to verify gluten free status. Schneider’s Country Naturals bacon should be safe at less than 20 parts per million of gluten.

Are Other Bacon Brands Labeled Gluten Free?

In addition to Schneider’s Country Naturals, several other bacon brands also label certain products gluten free:

• Applegate – Certifies their Sunday Bacon, Turkey Bacon and other varieties as gluten free.
• Oscar Mayer – Their Selects uncured bacon is labeled gluten free.
• Wellshire Farms – Offers both bacon and turkey bacon certified gluten free.
• Jones Dairy Farm – Certifies their bacon including turkey bacon as gluten free.
• Nueske’s – Labels their applewood smoked and other bacons gluten free.
• Beeler’s and Hatfield also flag their bacon as gluten free.

Checking for a gluten free label is the safest option for those with celiac disease.

Tips for Choosing Safe Bacon

When selecting bacon, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the label – Look for a gluten free statement on the packaging.
• Evaluate the facility – Bacon processed in a dedicated gluten free facility is safest.
• Stick to major brands – Large manufacturers are more likely to implement gluten free processes.
• Know your servings – Most bacon labels list 2-3 slices as a serving. Eat accordingly.
• Avoid add-ins – Flavored bacons may have gluten-containing marinades. Stick to plain.
• Cook thoroughly – Ensure bacon reaches crispy consistency to avoid textured gluten.

What If Bacon Has No Gluten Info?

If you find a bacon brand without any gluten information on the packaging, proceed with caution. You’ll want to contact the manufacturer to understand their processing procedures before determining if the bacon is safe to eat.

Key questions to ask:

• Is your bacon cured or smoked with any seasonings containing gluten?
• Do you process bacon on shared equipment also used for gluten-containing foods?
• Do you have any procedures in place to prevent cross contamination?

Without definitive knowledge of the manufacturing process, it’s impossible to know if unseen gluten could be present. Sticking to certified or labeled gluten free bacon is the surest way for those with celiac to stay safe.

Cooking and Serving Bacon Safely

Once you’ve selected a certified gluten free bacon brand, you also need to handle it properly:

• Use designated cookware – Cook bacon in pans and skillets only used for gluten free foods.
• Limit splatter – Popping bacon grease can spread gluten, so use a splatter screen.
• Serve immediately – Transfer cooked bacon to a clean plate to avoid re-contamination.
• Store properly – Keep uncooked bacon sealed and separate from gluten-containing items.

Following strict kitchen protocols helps keep your gluten free bacon safe through cooking and serving.

Enjoying Bacon on a Gluten Free Diet

Eating gluten free doesn’t mean giving up your favorite bacon dishes. Brands like Schneider’s Country Naturals make it possible to safely enjoy bacon.

Look for bacon and turkey bacon options that are certified gluten free when available. And be sure to double check labels each time you shop, as formulations can change.

With the right selections and preparations, bacon can still be on the menu for those sticking to a gluten free diet. Schneider’s and other brands offer reliably safe options.