Frequently Asked Questions
Blog Post: Getting To Know XLNT Foods: we answer your most frequently asked questions!
General FAQ
Where can I find your products?
The easiest way is to check our new store locator! Currently, you can find XLNT Foods Tamales and Chili Con Carne at California Stores, including Vons, Ralphs, Albertsons, Smart&Final, Food4Less, Stater Bros., Pavilions, Superior Grocers and Gelsons. You can also find us in select stores in Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Washington State.
Do you have online ordering?
We can finally answer YES to this question! Click here for the XLNT Foods Store
Where are your products made?
XLNT Foods still produces our famous Tamales and Chili Con Carne here in Southern California, where the company began. Our USDA-inspected manufacturing plant is located in Long Beach, California.
Can I freeze your products?
Absolutely. If you do not intend to consume your tamales or chili con carne by the “best by date”, place in the freezer. For best quality, consume within 6 months.
What kind of beef and chicken do you use?
XLNT Foods uses USDA inspected ground beef and USDA inspected chicken breast and chicken thigh meat.
Are your products gluten-free?
Our products are not gluten-free. We use traditional Mexican recipes passed down for generations and they do contain wheat. If you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Do your products contain any other allergens?
Our products contain wheat and soy from the list of most common allergens in food. In addition, they are made in a plant where eggs, milk, fish, and tree nuts are also used. As part of our commitment to food safety, we maintain an allergen program to keep known allergens separate from other ingredients. If you have questions or concerns about any of our ingredients, please contact us.
What do the codes mean on your packaging?
There are two codes on our products: The Julian code is a 5-digit number that tells you when the product was manufactured. The "best if used by" date is the date XLNT Foods recommends the product be used or frozen to ensure quality and consistency.
Where can I find your 8oz Tamale?
XLNT 8oz Tamales are sold at Ralphs and Gelson’s. Ralph’s carries them in the deli case, typically with the fresh salsa and Mexican cheeses, while Gelson's stocks them in the deli case with the snack burritos. And NOW you can shop for them at the XLNT Foods Store.
How do I prepare XLNT Tamales?
Stovetop: Steam wrapped tamales in covered colander or sieve over boiling water for approximately 25 minutes if thawed; 30 minutes if frozen. Do not place tamales directly in water. Microwave: Remove from bag, place tamale with unopened plastic wrapper on microwave-safe dish and heat on MEDIUM for 2 minutes if thawed; 4 minutes if frozen. Remove Plastic wrapper. Conventional Oven: Remove from bag and unwrap. Place tamales in a casserole dish with 1-2 tablespoons of water. Cover and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes if thawed; 30 minutes if frozen. May also be heated in foil, omitting water.
How do I prepare XLNT Chili Con Carne?
Serving Suggestion: Chili Con Carne with beans, Always remove Chili from the tray. Open a 15oz can of pinto beans or equivalent; combine with Chili and heat. Use as a topping for Tamales, Burritos, Hot Dogs, Baked Potatoes, Pasta etc. Use your favorite combination of ingredients to customize your own chili! Excellent when mixed with sautéed vegetables or meat leftovers.