Are Fruity Pebble Bars Gluten-Free? The Definitive Answer

November 9, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the manufacturer Post, Fruity PEBBLES Treats are officially a gluten-free snack option, making them safe for many with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to enjoy. This is a crucial distinction, as the popular snack is often compared to traditional Rice Krispies Treats, which contain gluten.

Quick Summary

Yes, commercially produced Fruity Pebble bars are certified gluten-free by the manufacturer, with the cereal made from rice and no gluten-containing ingredients. However, homemade versions or other brands require careful ingredient verification to ensure gluten-free marshmallows are used and to prevent cross-contamination.

Key Points

Officially Gluten-Free: The manufacturer, Post, explicitly markets Fruity Pebble bars as gluten-free on its packaging and website.
Rice-Based Cereal: The foundation of the bars, Fruity Pebbles cereal, is made from rice and does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.
Not Like Rice Krispies: Unlike Kellogg's Rice Krispies treats, Fruity Pebbles treats do not contain barley malt, a gluten-containing ingredient.
Check Homemade Ingredients: When making homemade Fruity Pebble bars, you must use certified gluten-free marshmallows, as some brands may contain non-GF starches.
Consider Cross-Contamination: While generally safe, very sensitive individuals with celiac disease should always be cautious and check for any potential cross-contamination warnings.
Read the Label: The best practice is always to read the most current ingredient list on the packaging to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

The Official Verdict: Fruity Pebble Bars Are Gluten-Free

For anyone with a gluten intolerance, navigating the snack aisle can be a challenge. Thankfully, Fruity Pebble bars, known officially as Fruity PEBBLES Treats, are a confirmed safe option. The official PEBBLES brand website explicitly states that these fruity marshmallow bars are "delicious, fun, and gluten-free". This assurance is particularly valuable given the confusion that often surrounds similar cereal treats, most notably Rice Krispies treats, which contain barley malt and are not gluten-free.

Why Fruity Pebbles Cereal is Naturally Gluten-Free

The reason Fruity Pebble bars are gluten-free begins with the cereal itself. The base of Fruity PEBBLES cereal is rice, a grain that does not contain gluten. In December 2010, Post Foods announced that it would be pursuing gluten-free certification for its Pebbles cereal lines to ensure cross-contamination was addressed for those with celiac disease. The ingredients of the cereal consist mainly of rice, sugar, oil, and flavorings, without any gluten-containing additives. This rice-based recipe has been a family favorite for decades, long before the modern gluten-free movement gained traction.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

The ingredient list for Post Fruity PEBBLES Treats further confirms its gluten-free status. A typical list includes:

Rice
Corn Syrup
Fructose
Sugar
Palm Kernel and Palm Oil
Dextrose
Gelatin
Salt
Glycerin
Whey
Soy Lecithin
Natural and Artificial Flavor
Nonfat Milk
Red 40, Yellow 6, Yellow 5, Blue 1
Essential vitamins and minerals

Notably absent from this list are wheat, barley, or rye, or any malt flavoring derived from these gluten-containing grains. The presence of gelatin can affect those with other dietary restrictions, but it does not pose a gluten risk.

The Difference Between Commercial and Homemade Bars

While the commercial Fruity PEBBLES Treats are a safe bet, things can get tricky when making them at home. The main variable is the marshmallow brand used. Many brands of marshmallows are gluten-free, but it is essential to check the label for any warnings or cross-contamination risks. Some marshmallows are coated with a starch that is not gluten-free, so sourcing a reliable brand is critical for those with celiac disease.

Cross-Contamination and Highly Sensitive Individuals

While Post takes measures to ensure its products are gluten-free, some highly sensitive individuals have reported reactions to the cereal. It's crucial to understand that a product labeled gluten-free is not the same as one certified by an organization like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Post has previously pursued certification, but it's always wise for extremely sensitive consumers to check the latest manufacturing information, as processes can change over time.

Comparison: Fruity Pebble Bars vs. Rice Krispies Treats


Feature	Fruity Pebble Bars	Rice Krispies Treats (Kellogg's)
Cereal Base	Rice-based cereal	Rice-based cereal with barley malt
Gluten Status	Gluten-Free	Not Gluten-Free
Key Ingredient	Rice, sugar, marshmallows	Rice, barley malt, marshmallows
Safety for Celiac	Safe for most, but check latest packaging for highly sensitive individuals	Contains gluten; not safe for those with celiac disease
Primary Difference	No barley malt added	Contains barley malt flavoring
Where to Buy GF	Readily available at most grocery stores, labeled as gluten-free	Must use a gluten-free brand of crispy rice cereal to make homemade versions

The Role of Awareness in Food Choices

The difference between Fruity Pebble bars and Rice Krispies treats highlights the importance of reading labels, even for products that seem safe on the surface. While both are made with puffed rice, the addition of a gluten-containing ingredient like barley malt completely changes its suitability for a gluten-free diet. The transparency from Post regarding the gluten-free status of its Fruity Pebbles products, including the cereal and the snack bars, empowers consumers to make safe and informed dietary choices.

For those managing celiac disease, staying informed about ingredient updates and manufacturer certifications is a continuous process. Organizations like Beyond Celiac provide reliable resources and news for the gluten-free community.

Conclusion: A Safe and Fruity Treat

In conclusion, Fruity Pebble bars are a safe and delicious gluten-free snack option, confirmed by the manufacturer Post. Their core ingredient, Fruity PEBBLES cereal, is naturally gluten-free and made from rice. While commercial bars are a reliable choice, homemade versions require attention to detail, specifically ensuring all ingredients, including marshmallows, are also gluten-free. This snack provides a vibrant, flavorful alternative for those avoiding gluten, proving that dietary restrictions don't have to mean sacrificing fun and tasty treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Post Foods states that all varieties of Fruity Pebbles cereal and treats, including Fruity PEBBLES Treats and Cocoa Pebbles, are gluten-free.

Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal and the corresponding treats are not gluten-free because they contain barley malt flavoring, which is derived from a gluten-containing grain.

Yes, you can. The key is to use Fruity Pebbles cereal along with a brand of marshmallows that is certified gluten-free. Some marshmallow brands use starches that contain gluten.

Look for the words "gluten-free" prominently displayed on the packaging. For those with celiac disease, also check for a certification symbol from an organization like the GFCO, which indicates rigorous testing.

No, according to some product descriptions, the bars are made without high-fructose corn syrup, but it is always best to check the current ingredient list for specific product variations.

While the company takes measures to avoid cross-contamination and labels products as gluten-free, some very sensitive individuals may need to exercise caution. There have been discussions among the celiac community about potential reactions, though this is not a widespread issue.

The most reliable method is to check the manufacturer's website or the product packaging. Many companies, like Post, have dedicated pages on their sites with detailed information about allergens and dietary claims.