Dare's Commitment to Gluten-Free Products
Dare Foods is a long-standing Canadian company that produces a wide range of snack foods, including candies, crackers, and cookies. The company is transparent about its manufacturing practices and labeling, especially concerning common allergens. For their line of candy products, known as Dare Candy Co., the company states on its FAQ page that all items are gluten-free. This includes many of their popular gelatin-free and gummy candies, which are made without artificial colors or flavors.
This commitment to producing safe, gluten-free candy is supported by specific manufacturing protocols. As part of their "Made Better" promise, Dare Foods employs rigorous measures to ensure product safety. These include separating and screening raw materials, testing finished products, and swabbing lines to check for any residual allergens. For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, this level of care is crucial, but it's important to remember that this policy applies specifically to the candy line, not the entire range of Dare products.
Identifying Gluten-Free Dare Candies
Navigating a gluten-free diet requires careful label reading, even with brands that offer many gluten-free options. To ensure a Dare candy is safe for consumption, look for explicit labeling on the packaging. Many of their gummies and other fruit candies will clearly state 'Gluten Free' on the front of the bag. For instance, products like Dare Juicee Jelly Beans and Dare REALFRUIT Gummies are consistently marketed as gluten-free.
One important note is that the entire Dare Foods company is not a gluten-free facility. While their candy production is handled separately and with care, cross-contamination is always a theoretical risk when a company manufactures both gluten-containing and gluten-free items. This is why certified products or those with clear "gluten free" labels are the most reliable choice for those with serious dietary concerns. In contrast, bakery items like cookies and crackers that contain wheat are prepared in separate facilities.
Gluten-Free vs. Gluten-Containing Dare Products
To make informed choices, it is helpful to compare the different product lines offered by Dare Foods. The following table highlights the difference in gluten status based on product type.
| Product Category | Example Products | Gluten-Free Status | Common Ingredients to Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dare Candy Co. | Juicee Jelly Beans, REALFRUIT Gummies, Scotch Mints | Gluten Free | Corn starch, sugar, natural flavors. No wheat. |
| Dare Cookies | Wagon Wheels, Dare Fruit Kookies | Contains Gluten | Wheat flour, gluten, modified milk ingredients. |
| Dare Crackers | Breton Gluten Free Crackers | Certified Gluten Free | Arrowroot flour, green lentil flour. Specifically formulated. |
| Dare Iced Coffee | Majority of products | Gluten Free | Coffee, milk. Check labels, as oat milk versions may contain gluten. |
This comparison table demonstrates why checking the specific product is paramount. The presence of 'wheat flour' in the ingredient list is a clear indicator that a product is not gluten-free. The company's commitment extends to offering specific certified products, like the Breton Gluten Free Crackers, which are endorsed by the Canadian Celiac Association.
Reading Labels for Celiac Disease
For those with celiac disease, reading the ingredient list is the most critical step. The phrase "Are Dare candies gluten free?" should always be followed by checking the specific package you intend to purchase. While the Dare Candy Co. website may state its candies are gluten-free, formulations can change, and different varieties or holiday packaging might be produced in different facilities. The safest approach is to look for a certified gluten-free logo or an explicit statement on the packaging itself. Additionally, checking for a cross-contamination warning can provide further clarity. Dare Foods' website provides comprehensive allergen information, which is a valuable resource.
Authoritative Source
For the most up-to-date information on Dare's gluten-free status, refer to the Dare Foods official website to review their manufacturing promises and product-specific details.
Conclusion
In summary, whether Dare candies are gluten free depends on the specific product. The company's line of candies, sold under the Dare Candy Co. brand, is consistently labeled and marketed as gluten-free, including their REALFRUIT gummies, Juicee Jelly Beans, and Scotch Mints. However, many other Dare products, such as their Wagon Wheels cookies, contain wheat and are not safe for a gluten-free diet. Consumers must read product labels carefully and rely on clear gluten-free markings to ensure safe consumption. The company's commitment to rigorous testing and clear labeling for their gluten-free items provides confidence, but due diligence on a per-product basis is always recommended.
