Are Hershey Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips Gluten-Free?

November 25, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a product labeled 'gluten-free' must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips are officially labeled as gluten-free, making them a safe choice for many individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, as with any food product, checking the label for the most current information is always recommended.

Quick Summary

This article confirms that Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips are explicitly labeled gluten-free, offering a suitable option for many with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It examines potential risks like cross-contamination and advises on label reading. Information on other Hershey products and comparisons with alternative brands are also provided for a comprehensive baking guide.

Key Points

Hershey's Semi-Sweet Chips are Gluten-Free: The standard version of Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips is explicitly labeled as gluten-free by the manufacturer.
Meets FDA Standards: The product contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, adhering to FDA regulations for a gluten-free claim.
Cross-Contamination Risk is Managed: Hershey has procedures to prevent cross-contact, but checking for 'may contain' statements on the label is still recommended for severe sensitivities.
Check for Regional Variations: Some regional or specialty versions of Hershey's chips, such as some international or seasonal varieties, may have different allergen warnings.
Always Read the Label: Because ingredients and manufacturing processes can change, always verify the gluten-free status on the most current packaging.
Many Brands Offer GF Options: Other brands like Nestle Toll House (most varieties) and Enjoy Life (dedicated allergen-friendly) also offer gluten-free chocolate chips.

Understanding the Hershey's Gluten-Free Label

For individuals with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, understanding product labeling is paramount. The Hershey Company has a well-defined process for evaluating and labeling products as gluten-free, following FDA guidelines. Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips fall into this category, with a prominent 'gluten free' statement on the packaging. This ensures the product contains less than the FDA-regulated 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is generally considered safe for most people with celiac disease.

Reading Ingredient Lists for Hidden Gluten

Even with a clear gluten-free label, it is always a good practice to examine the ingredient list on any product. For Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips, the ingredient list typically includes: Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Sugar, Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Milk Fat, Lecithin (Soy), Natural Flavor). None of these primary ingredients contain gluten. The label also notes common allergens such as milk and soy, but importantly, does not list wheat as a primary or secondary ingredient for this specific product.

Cross-Contamination Risks: What Celiac Sufferers Need to Know

For individuals with celiac disease, the risk of cross-contamination is a serious concern. This occurs when a gluten-free product comes into contact with gluten-containing ingredients during manufacturing. Hershey takes steps to minimize this risk, and the company has stated that extensive cleaning procedures are in place when switching between allergen-containing and non-allergen-containing products on the same equipment.

For some products, however, a 'may contain' statement might be included. It's crucial for consumers to look for these precautionary allergen labels, as they indicate a higher risk of cross-contact. While Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips are labeled gluten-free, individuals with severe sensitivity should be mindful that manufacturing practices can change and regional products might differ. A Canadian version of Hershey's chips, for instance, explicitly warned it 'may contain' wheat. Always consult the most current packaging for your specific region and version of the product.

How to Verify for Your Own Peace of Mind

Check the Label: Always look for the 'gluten free' certification on the specific bag you are buying, as product formulas and manufacturing sites can vary.
Visit the Hershey's Website: The Hershey Company maintains an updated list of its gluten-free products on its official website. This can provide an extra layer of assurance.
Contact Customer Service: For ultimate certainty, especially for severe cases of celiac disease, consider contacting Hershey's customer service directly with the product's barcode for the most specific information.

Comparing Hershey's Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips to Other Brands


Brand	Status for Semi-Sweet Chips	Key Considerations
Hershey's	Labeled Gluten-Free	Officially compliant with FDA standards. Check specific bag for confirmation.
Nestle Toll House	Most are Gluten-Free	Most semi-sweet varieties are gluten-free, but confirm for specialty flavors.
Enjoy Life	Certified Gluten-Free	Specifically formulated for allergies and clearly marked, offering a high level of safety.
Ghirardelli	Not Considered Gluten-Free	Explicitly states potential for cross-contamination with wheat on its labels.
Store Brand/Generic	Varies by Product	Must read the label carefully; a lack of 'gluten free' certification means cross-contamination is a risk.

Gluten-Free Baking and Beyond

Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used as a reliable gluten-free option in a wide variety of baking and cooking applications. Whether you are baking cookies, brownies, or melting them for a ganache, their gluten-free status makes them a versatile ingredient. For gluten-free baking, always ensure all other ingredients—such as flour, baking powder, and extracts—are also certified gluten-free.

Here are some common uses for gluten-free chocolate chips:

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies: Use a reliable gluten-free flour blend with Hershey's chips for a timeless treat.
Brownies and Blondies: Fold the chips into your favorite gluten-free brownie mix or scratch recipe for a chocolatey kick.
Pancakes and Waffles: Sprinkle a handful into your gluten-free pancake or waffle batter for a sweet breakfast.
Trail Mix: Mix with nuts, seeds, and other gluten-free treats for a quick and satisfying snack.
Melting and Decorating: Melt the chips to drizzle over fruit, pretzels, or other gluten-free desserts.

Conclusion

In summary, Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips are officially labeled as a gluten-free product, meeting the FDA standard of less than 20 ppm of gluten. This makes them a safe and trusted choice for most bakers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While the risk of cross-contamination is taken seriously by the company, consumers are always advised to check the most recent product packaging and labels for any changes, especially if they have severe allergies. By being a diligent label reader, you can confidently use these chocolate chips in all your gluten-free baking adventures.

Navigating Dietary Needs with Confidence

Choosing the right ingredients for a gluten-free diet requires careful attention. Thankfully, for products like Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips, the labeling provides clarity. However, it's a useful exercise to apply the same level of scrutiny to all products you consume. Always read labels, verify certifications, and when in doubt, seek out brands specifically designed for allergy-friendly production like Enjoy Life. Armed with this knowledge, you can continue to enjoy delicious, homemade treats while adhering to your dietary restrictions. For more information on Hershey's gluten-free commitment, you can check their official website [https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home/ingredients/dietary-needs/gluten-free.html].

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the standard version of Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips is labeled gluten-free by the manufacturer. The product is formulated and manufactured to meet the FDA's requirements for a gluten-free claim.

For most individuals with celiac disease, Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips are safe because they are labeled gluten-free, indicating they contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. However, those with severe sensitivities should always check the most recent label for any changes in manufacturing or allergen warnings.

To be certain, always look for the 'gluten free' claim directly on the bag of the specific product you are purchasing. You can also consult the updated list of gluten-free products on the official Hershey Company website.

No, the gluten-free status varies by product. While the semi-sweet chips are labeled gluten-free, other products or seasonal variations may contain gluten or have a risk of cross-contamination. Always check each individual product label.

Hershey has strict allergen control procedures to minimize cross-contamination. However, some very sensitive individuals may still be concerned. For maximum safety, look for brands that are certified gluten-free in a dedicated facility, like Enjoy Life, or contact Hershey's for specific manufacturing details.

The ingredients typically include semi-sweet chocolate (sugar, chocolate, cocoa butter, milk fat), lecithin (soy), and natural flavor. These ingredients do not contain gluten.

Yes, aside from Hershey's, brands like Nestle Toll House (most varieties) and Enjoy Life offer gluten-free chocolate chip options. Always check the packaging to confirm their specific gluten-free status.