For individuals following a keto diet, finding suitable food options can be challenging, especially when it comes to favorite treats like pizza. Papa Murphy’s, a popular pizza chain, offers a gluten-free crust option, which may seem like a viable choice for those with dietary restrictions. However, the question remains: is Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust keto friendly? In this article, we will delve into the world of keto diets, gluten-free options, and the nutritional content of Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust to provide a comprehensive answer.
Understanding the Keto Diet
The keto diet, short for ketogenic diet, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that aims to put the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. The diet typically consists of a macronutrient breakdown of 70-80% fat, 15-20% protein, and 5-10% carbohydrates. This drastic reduction in carbohydrate intake forces the body to switch from relying on glucose (sugar) for energy to relying on ketones, which are produced by the liver from fat breakdown.
Keto Diet and Gluten-Free Options
Gluten-free options have become increasingly popular in recent years, not only for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance but also for those following a keto diet. Many gluten-free products, however, are highly processed and contain high amounts of carbohydrates, making them unsuitable for a keto diet. When searching for keto-friendly gluten-free options, it is essential to read labels carefully and check the nutritional content to ensure that the product aligns with keto dietary guidelines.
Nutritional Content of Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust
Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust is made from a blend of rice flour, potato starch, and olive oil. According to the company’s nutrition information, a single serving of the gluten-free crust (1/4 of the crust) contains:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Carbohydrate Content and Keto Compatibility
The carbohydrate content of Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust is relatively high, with 25g of carbohydrates per serving. For a keto diet, this amount of carbohydrates is excessive and could potentially kick the body out of ketosis. Additionally, the crust contains a significant amount of rice flour, which is high on the glycemic index and can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
Modifying Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust for a Keto Diet
While Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust may not be keto friendly in its original form, there are ways to modify it to make it more suitable for a keto diet. Adding high-fat toppings and reducing the amount of crust used can help increase the fat content and reduce the carbohydrate content of the pizza. Some keto-friendly topping options include:
- High-fat meats like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon
- Full-fat cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan
- Low-carb vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions
Keto-Friendly Alternatives to Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust
For those who find it challenging to modify Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust to fit their keto dietary needs, there are alternative options available. Caesar’s Pizza and Domino’s Pizza offer keto-friendly crust options, made with ingredients like cauliflower and almond flour. Additionally, many keto-friendly pizza recipes are available online, using ingredients like zucchini, eggplant, and portobello mushrooms as low-carb crust alternatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Papa Murphy’s gluten-free crust is not keto friendly due to its high carbohydrate content and low fat content. However, with modifications and the addition of high-fat toppings, it is possible to make a keto-friendly pizza using this crust. For those who prefer a more straightforward keto-friendly option, alternative crusts and recipes are available. When following a keto diet, it is essential to carefully read labels and check nutritional content to ensure that the food choices align with keto dietary guidelines. By being mindful of carbohydrate intake and focusing on high-fat, low-carb ingredients, individuals can enjoy their favorite foods, including pizza, while maintaining a state of ketosis.
What is Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust made of?
Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust is made from a blend of ingredients that are designed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional pizza crust, but without the gluten. The crust is made from a combination of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, which provides a gluten-free alternative for customers with dietary restrictions. Additionally, the crust contains other ingredients such as sugar, salt, and yeast, which help to enhance the flavor and texture of the crust.
The ingredients used in Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust are carefully selected to ensure that they meet the company’s high standards for quality and taste. The crust is also designed to be easy to digest, making it a great option for customers who have gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, it’s worth noting that while the crust is gluten-free, it may still contain other allergens such as soy or dairy, so customers with other dietary restrictions should be sure to check the ingredients carefully before ordering.
Is Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust Keto Friendly?
Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust can be a part of a keto diet, but it depends on the toppings and portion size. The crust itself contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, which can kick you out of ketosis if you’re not careful. However, if you’re careful with your toppings and keep your portion size in check, you can enjoy a keto-friendly pizza from Papa Murphy’s. Look for toppings that are high in fat and protein, such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and avoid toppings that are high in carbohydrates, such as sugary sauces and high-carb vegetables.
To make a keto-friendly pizza from Papa Murphy’s, consider ordering a small or medium-sized pizza with a gluten-free crust and loading up on keto-friendly toppings. Some good options include pepperoni, sausage, bacon, mushrooms, and olives. Be sure to avoid any toppings that contain added sugars or high-carb ingredients, and opt for a light coating of cheese instead of a heavy, sugary sauce. By being mindful of your toppings and portion size, you can enjoy a delicious and keto-friendly pizza from Papa Murphy’s.
How many carbs are in Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust?
Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, with a single serving (1/4 of a large pizza) containing around 30-40 grams of carbs. This can be a problem for customers who are following a low-carb diet, such as a keto diet, as it can be difficult to stay within daily carb limits. However, it’s worth noting that the carb count can vary depending on the size of the pizza and the toppings, so be sure to check the nutrition information carefully before ordering.
To put the carb count into perspective, a standard keto diet typically recommends limiting daily carb intake to 20-50 grams of net carbs per day. This means that a single serving of Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust could account for a significant portion of your daily carb limit, leaving little room for other carb-containing foods. If you’re following a keto diet, be sure to carefully track your carb intake and plan your meals accordingly to ensure that you’re staying within your daily limits.
Can I customize my Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust to be more keto-friendly?
Yes, you can customize your Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust to be more keto-friendly by choosing toppings that are high in fat and protein and low in carbohydrates. Consider ordering a pizza with a gluten-free crust and loading up on meats, cheeses, and vegetables, which are all keto-friendly options. You can also ask for a light coating of cheese instead of a heavy, sugary sauce, and opt for a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or other spices to add flavor without adding carbs.
To take your keto-friendly pizza to the next level, consider adding some high-fat toppings such as bacon, sausage, or pepperoni. You can also add some keto-friendly vegetables such as mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers, which are all low in carbs and rich in flavor. By customizing your pizza with keto-friendly toppings, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that fits within your daily carb limits and supports your keto lifestyle.
Is Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust suitable for customers with celiac disease?
Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust is designed to be safe for customers with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, but it may not be suitable for customers with celiac disease. While the crust is made with gluten-free ingredients, it is still prepared in a kitchen that also handles gluten-containing ingredients, which can increase the risk of cross-contamination. Customers with celiac disease should exercise caution when ordering from Papa Murphy’s and take steps to minimize their risk of exposure to gluten.
If you have celiac disease and are considering ordering from Papa Murphy’s, be sure to inform your server of your condition and ask about the company’s gluten-free protocols. You may also want to consider ordering a pizza that is prepared in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen or opting for a different restaurant that specializes in gluten-free cuisine. By taking these precautions, you can minimize your risk of exposure to gluten and enjoy a safe and satisfying meal.
How does Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust compare to other gluten-free pizza crusts?
Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust is a popular option for customers who are looking for a gluten-free pizza crust, but it’s not the only option available. Compared to other gluten-free pizza crusts, Papa Murphy’s crust is known for its crispy texture and flavorful taste. However, some customers may find that it is more dense and heavy than other gluten-free crusts, which can be a drawback for those who are looking for a lighter, crisper crust.
In terms of nutrition, Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust is comparable to other gluten-free pizza crusts, with a similar carb count and ingredient list. However, some customers may prefer other gluten-free crusts that are made with alternative ingredients, such as cauliflower or almond flour, which can be lower in carbs and richer in nutrients. Ultimately, the best gluten-free pizza crust will depend on your individual preferences and dietary needs, so be sure to try out a few different options to find the one that works best for you.
Can I order Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust online or through the app?
Yes, you can order Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust online or through the app, making it easy to enjoy a gluten-free pizza from the comfort of your own home. Simply visit the Papa Murphy’s website or download the app, select your location, and choose the gluten-free crust option from the menu. You can then customize your pizza with your favorite toppings and sauces, and either pick it up at the store or have it delivered to your doorstep.
To order online or through the app, simply follow the prompts to select your crust, toppings, and sauces, and then proceed to checkout. Be sure to review your order carefully before submitting it, and don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service if you have any questions or concerns. By ordering online or through the app, you can enjoy the convenience of Papa Murphy’s Gluten-Free Crust without having to leave your home, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.