Is Pizza Gluten-Free? Gluten-Free Pizza Brands

Pizza is typically made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. Therefore, traditional pizza is not gluten-free. However, gluten-free pizza options are available and are typically made with alternative flour, such as rice flour or almond flour, and can be just as delicious as traditional pizza. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant or read the ingredient label carefully to ensure that your pizza is gluten-free.

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Types of pizza

Margherita Pizza: This pizza originated in Naples, Italy. It has a thin crust, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil.

Pepperoni Pizza: This pizza is made with a tomato sauce base, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices, thin slices of spicy sausage.
Neapolitan Pizza: This is made with a thin crust and simple toppings, typically just tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil. It is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature to create a crispy crust.

How is gluten used in pizza?

Pizza typically contains gluten because it is made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. When wheat flour is mixed with water, the glutenin and gliadin combine to form gluten, giving the dough its elasticity and helping it rise. This is true for the pizza crust and other wheat-based ingredients that may be used in the pizza, such as certain toppings or sauces.

What does gluten do in pizza?

Gluten in pizza dough provides elasticity and helps it rise, resulting in a chewy and fluffy crust. It also gives pizza dough its characteristic texture and allows it to be shaped and stretched without breaking apart.

How is gluten-free pizza made?

Gluten-free pizza is typically made with alternative flour such as rice flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend. These flours do not contain gluten, but they may require additional ingredients such as xanthan gum or psyllium husk to provide the elasticity and structure that gluten normally provides. The dough is then shaped and baked just like traditional pizza dough.

Gluten-Free pizza brands

Udi’s Gluten-Free: Udi’s offers a variety of gluten-free pizza options, including frozen pizzas in flavors like Margherita and Three Cheese, as well as pre-made pizza crusts that you can top with your ingredients.
Glutino: Glutino offers a variety of gluten-free frozen pizzas, including Pepperoni, Spinach and Feta, and BBQ Chicken. They also offer gluten-free pizza crust mixes that you can use to make your pizza at home.
Against the Grain: Against the Grain makes gluten-free frozen pizzas with a unique crust made from cheese and tapioca flour, making them a great option for those looking for a grain-free pizza.

CAULIPOWER: CAULIPOWER offers a variety of frozen gluten-free pizzas made with a crust made from cauliflower, which is a great option for those looking for a low-carb or vegetable-based pizza.
Daiya: Daiya makes a variety of frozen gluten-free pizzas that are also dairy-free, making them a great option for those with multiple food allergies or sensitivities.
Simple Mills: Simple Mills offers a gluten-free pizza crust mix made with almond flour and simple ingredients like arrowroot powder and flax meal, making it a great option for those looking for a paleo-friendly pizza crust.

Major differences between pizza with gluten and gluten-free pizza

Ingredients: The primary difference between pizza with gluten and gluten-free pizza is the ingredients used in the crust. The traditional pizza crust is made with wheat flour containing gluten, while gluten-free pizza crust is typically made with alternative flour like rice flour or almond flour.
Texture: Gluten gives pizza dough elasticity and chewiness, so gluten-free pizza crusts may have a different texture than traditional pizza crusts. They may be denser or crumblier, depending on the ingredients used.

Taste: Depending on the type of flour used in the gluten-free crust, gluten-free pizza may have a slightly different taste than traditional pizza. Some people may find that gluten-free pizza has a nuttier or grainier flavor.
Availability: While traditional pizza is widely available at most pizzerias and restaurants, gluten-free pizza may be more difficult. Many pizza places offer gluten-free options now, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead to ensure they have a gluten-free crust available.

Taste and appearance of gluten-free pizza

The taste and appearance of gluten-free pizza can vary depending on the type of flour used in the crust and the ingredients used as toppings. Generally, gluten-free pizza crust may have a denser or crumblier texture compared to traditional pizza crust, and the taste may be slightly different depending on the type of flour used.

Benefits of eating gluten-free pizza

Reduced inflammation: For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, eating gluten-free pizza can help reduce inflammation caused by gluten consumption, improving digestive health and overall well-being.

Improved nutrient intake: Gluten-free pizza crusts are often made with alternative flour, such as almond or rice flour, which may offer additional nutrients like fiber, protein, and healthy fats compared to traditional wheat flour crusts.
Increased food options: For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, eating gluten-free pizza can help increase their food options when dining out or ordering in, improving the overall quality of their diet and lifestyle.
Potential weight loss: Some gluten-free pizza crusts may be lower in carbohydrates and calories than traditional wheat flour crusts, which can benefit people looking to manage their weight or follow a low-carb diet.

Tips for buying gluten-free pizza

Look for a certified gluten-free label: When buying gluten-free pizza, look for a certified gluten-free label on the packaging. This ensures that the product has been tested and meets strict gluten-free standards.
Read ingredient labels carefully: Even if a product is labeled as gluten-free, it’s still important to read the ingredient label carefully to check for any potential sources of gluten, such as modified food starch or maltodextrin.

Check for cross-contamination risks: If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it’s important to look for gluten-free pizza options made in a dedicated gluten-free facility or tested for cross-contamination.
Ask questions: If you’re unsure about a pizza’s gluten-free status or its ingredients, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Many restaurants and pizzerias are happy to provide information about their gluten-free options and preparation methods.

Is pizza sauce gluten-free?

Most pizza sauces are gluten-free, as the primary ingredients are tomato paste, water, herbs, and spices. Still, it’s always a good idea to read the ingredient label to check for any potential sources of gluten.

Is Gluten-free pizza good for people with celiac disease or gluten-sensitive people?

Yes, gluten-free pizza is a good option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who must avoid gluten to manage their health. However, it’s important to choose certified gluten-free options and be aware of cross-contamination risks.

Why is gluten-free pizza expensive?

Gluten-free pizza can be more expensive than traditional pizza because the alternative flours used to make the crust are often more expensive than wheat flour, and additional ingredients may be needed to provide texture and structure.