Is Pita Bread Vegan and Gluten Free
Suppose you are someone who has just switched to vegan lifestyle, it can be teriffying because find yourself right vegan product can be a tedious task as well as you don’t know to trust the products. The simplest of food items, such as bread, can sometimes be confusing and difficult to navigate. Because of the mere confusion between bread flour and self rising flour as many people believe they are the same.
For those who are also gluten intolerant, the search for a suitable bread can be even more complicated. In this article, we aim to answer one such question – is pita bread vegan and gluten-free? We will delve into the ingredients used in making pita bread and help you understand whether it is a suitable option for those following a vegan and gluten-free diet.
What is Pita Bread?
Pitta bread is a unique kind of flatbread that is soft and also slightly chewy. It is made by baking yeast and whole wheat flour at high temperatures, allowing the steam to form to puff the bread. As a result, a pocket is formed, which can be stuffed with various fillings or just served toasted or baked.
Pitta bread is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where it is stuffed with spreads or meats or just dipped in olive oil (check vegan status).
Is Pita Bread Vegan?
Yes. Pita bread is usually vegan. The two main ingredients used in pita bread are flour and yeast, both of which are plant-based. Salt and water are added to create the mixture and add taste; however, no animal products or byproducts are involved in the process. However, the best option is still to read through the label before consumption- just to be on the safe side.
Does Pita Bread Have Dairy?
Not usually. The majority of pita bread is dairy-free, typically made from a simple combination of flour, yeast, salt, and olive oil. While some varieties may include yogurt or milk, this is uncommon. To ensure dairy-free pita bread, always check the label for specific brands and varieties that may contain dairy ingredients.
Is Pita Bread Gluten-Free?
No. Pita Bread is not gluten-free since it uses wheat flour as one of its main ingredients. Usually, wheat flour is irreplaceable as none of the other alternatives can provide the light, pillowy texture that it does. However, at some stores, you may be able to find a gluten-free pita bread option; however, they’re usually extremely rare and don’t taste as good.
Typical Pita Bread Ingredients
As we discuss the ingredients in pita bread, it is important to note that yes, pita bread is vegan; however, it is not gluten-free. Let’s discuss the pita bread ingredients to understand why.
Vegan Ingredients
1. Yeast
Often, many people have multiple questions about yeast (check vegan status) since it is a living, non-plant organism. However, most yeast is completely vegan since it belongs to the fungi kingdom, which leans towards the plant side and is definitely not an animal.
Most years also do not contain gluten; however, it is important to always double-check to confirm. The only yeast that is not gluten-free is brewers yeast, which is a by-product of beer production, and hence it contains barley. However, the yeast used in pita bread is baker’s yeast, which is gluten-free.
2. Flour
Flour is vegan since it is a by-product of organic grains. All grains are plant-based, and so the flour does not use any animal product or by-product that will classify it as non-vegan. Moreover, it does not involve any animal cruelty during the production process, making it an ideal vegan ingredient.
However, flour is not gluten-free. Gluten is widely present in both commercial and homemade baked products. All-purpose flour contains anywhere from 8% to 11% gluten, depending on the type of wheat used and the process it goes through.
3. Salt & Water
Lastly, salt and water are used to tie the yeast and flour together as well as add to the taste. Since both of these ingredients are vegan, it becomes clear that pita bread is a vegan ingredient. However, due to the presence of flour- pita bread is not gluten-free.
Non-Vegan Ingredients
1. Palm Oil
Even though palm oil does not contain any animal products or by-products, not all vegans are okay with consuming it due to the exploitative farming practices involved in its manufacture and their environmental impact. So if you’re one of those who wish to avoid palm oil, keep an eye out for the ingredients list.
2. Lecithin
Lecithin is not usually a problem because very few brands opt for it as part of their recipes- however, it is a potential allergen. Most brands choose to use soy lecithin as its allergic properties are less.
3. Xantham Gum
Used by a small number of pita brands; Xantham gum is made using various sugars, but it’s not usually explicitly clarified whether the sugar used is vegan or not. Usually, it is wiser to assume that it isn’t unless you’ve confirmed otherwise.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Pita Bread Brands
1. Bfree Gluten Free Stone-Baked Vegan Pita Bread
The BFree Pita bread is a favorite among all due to the unique method it is created using as well as its nutritional benefits. It is cooked in a stone-fired oven that provides it with an authentic and warm taste that makes it delicious.
Moreover, it is also free of wheat, eggs, nuts, soy, and, most importantly, gluten! It is low in fat and high in fiber and Vitamin E. Suitable for vegans and those following a kosher diet; you can fill it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious pita bread sandwich!
2. Papa Pita Greek Vegan Pita Bread
The Greek Pita flatbread is made using an extended natural fermentation process that gives it a bold taste that stands out. This pita bread is delicious, vegan, and easy to fold and use.
It is non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and has a high level of protein and fiber per serving. It goes well with a number of sauces and sides, such as hummus (check vegan status), tabbouleh, and baba ganoush, which are usually staples.
The best way to consume it is by ensuring that it is refrigerated until use, after which you can bake it in an oven. Make sure the oven is preheated to 400 F and let it cook for 2 minutes. Remove and serve with the filling of your choice!
3. Joseph’s Flax Oat Bran & Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Manufactured by Joseph’s Middle East Bakery in Lawrence, Massachusetts, this flax, oat bran, and whole wheat pita bread will leave you longing for more. Kosher certified this pita bread provides protein, Omega-3, and important dietary fibers.
The best part is that these are available as pita breads as well as lavash and wraps. So you can purchase them in the form of your choice and whip up the dish you like best!
4. Toufayan Bakeries, Smart Carb Smart Pockets Vegan Pita Bread
Toufayan Bakery pita bread is the convenient and versatile option on the market! Low carb, low calorie, high protein, and high diner- this pita bread option is not only tasty but also great for your body.
With only a total of 90 calories and a soft and chewy pocket, this is the perfect pita bread to use when creating a filling of vegetables and sauces. Most importantly, this pita bread can be frozen for up to 8 months! Just remember to let them thaw for a few hours before preparing them, and soon you’ll have the perfect pita pocket to use for your dish!
Conclusion
To sum it up, pita bread is suitable for vegans because its two base ingredients, flour, and yeast, are vegan-friendly. It is very rare that any animal products or by-products are used in pita bread. In similar way we have also scrutinized vegan status of Sourdough Bread.
However, it is always important to read the label and check for any hidden animal-derived products that might have been added. For those who want to be extra cautious, making vegan bread at home is always an excellent option. With a little bit of practice and patience, you can enjoy fresh, homemade bread that suits your dietary requirements.
