Understanding Little Moons' Gluten-Free Promise
For anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding safe and delicious dessert options can be a challenge. Thankfully, Little Moons has made it simple by confirming that their cheesecake bites, along with their entire product line, are gluten-free. The key lies in their careful ingredient selection, starting with the outer mochi dough. Unlike many baked goods that rely on wheat flour, Little Moons' mochi is traditionally made from glutinous rice flour, which is naturally gluten-free.
Another crucial element is the biscuit crumb, often the source of gluten in conventional cheesecakes. Little Moons utilizes a gluten-free biscuit crumb specifically formulated with a blend of brown rice, potato, and maize flour. This attention to detail ensures that the entire product is free from gluten-containing ingredients, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable treat for everyone.
The All-Important Allergen Warning
While the products are formulated to be gluten-free, Little Moons operates a factory that handles other major allergens. This is an important distinction for those with severe allergies or celiac disease who must avoid cross-contamination at all costs. The company's FAQ and product packaging contain vital warnings about allergens handled on-site, which can include milk, nuts, peanuts, soya, and egg, among others. The potential for cross-contamination is a key consideration for consumers, as even trace amounts can trigger a reaction. Little Moons is transparent about this risk, advising customers to check individual packaging for the most current 'may contain' information.
Cheesecake vs. Mochi: What's the Difference?
Little Moons offers both their original mochi ice cream and the newer cheesecake bites, and both are made to be gluten-free. While the core promise remains the same, their construction differs slightly. The original mochi consists of a gelato center wrapped in rice dough, while the cheesecake bites feature a creamy cheesecake filling, wrapped in mochi, and rolled in a gluten-free biscuit crumb. This distinction is important for those who might prefer one style over the other, but both are safe for a gluten-free diet. The brand's commitment to using naturally gluten-free base ingredients across both lines ensures consistency for their gluten-free customers.
Exploring the Gluten-Free Flavor Range
Little Moons provides a variety of gluten-free options beyond just the cheesecakes. The brand's entire ice cream mochi range is also gluten-free, offering a wide array of flavors for customers to enjoy.
- Cheesecake Flavours: Enjoy indulgent options like Strawberry & Mascarpone, Belgian Chocolate & Salted Caramel, and Caramelised Biscuit & White Chocolate.
- Classic Mochi Ice Cream: Explore flavors such as Mango & Passionfruit, Himalayan Salted Caramel, and Honey Roasted Pistachio.
- Vegan Options: Many of Little Moons' products are also vegan, like the Belgian Chocolate and Tropical Mango and Passionfruit flavors, further expanding the choice for those with dietary restrictions.
A Comparison of Little Moons Cheesecake Flavors
| Cheesecake Flavor | Key Ingredients | Dietary Suitability | Key Allergen Warnings (May Contain) | Calories per Mochi | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberry & Mascarpone | Full Fat Soft Cheese, Mascarpone, Strawberry Filling, Gluten Free Biscuit Crumb | Gluten Free, Vegetarian | Nuts, Peanuts, Egg, Soya | 92 kcal | |
| Caramelised Biscuit & White Chocolate | Full Fat Soft Cheese, Mascarpone, Speculoos Sauce, White Chocolate, Gluten Free Biscuit Crumb | Gluten Free, Vegetarian | Nuts, Peanuts, Egg, Milk, Soya | 98 kcal | |
| Belgian Chocolate & Salted Caramel | Full Fat Soft Cheese, Mascarpone, Belgian Chocolate, Salted Caramel, Gluten Free Biscuit Crumb | Gluten Free, Vegetarian | Nuts, Peanuts, Egg, Milk, Soya | Less than 100 kcal |
Little Moons' Manufacturing Standards
Little Moons takes food safety seriously and employs strict controls in their manufacturing process. The use of dedicated gluten-free ingredients and formulations is a testament to this, but the company remains transparent about its factory environment. While they handle multiple allergens on-site, internal procedures are in place to manage the risk of cross-contamination. For those with highly sensitive allergies, this transparency allows for an informed decision based on their individual needs and comfort level. The presence of clear 'May contain' warnings on packaging is a standard practice for many manufacturers to ensure customer safety.
Where to Find Your Gluten-Free Fix
Little Moons' products, including the popular gluten-free cheesecake bites, are widely available in many major retailers. Grocery stores like Tesco, Waitrose, and Ocado often carry a variety of their flavors. Checking online retailers or using the retailer map on the official Little Moons website can help locate the nearest stockist. This widespread availability makes it convenient for gluten-free consumers to find and enjoy these treats without an extensive search.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Little Moons cheesecakes are indeed gluten-free, a significant bonus for anyone following this specific diet. The company has made a clear commitment to using naturally gluten-free ingredients and specially formulated biscuit crumbs. However, consumers must remain aware of the potential for cross-contamination with other allergens due to factory handling practices. By checking the ingredient list and 'may contain' warnings on the packaging, individuals can confidently enjoy this sweet and satisfying dessert while prioritizing their health and safety. Little Moons' transparency and delicious product range make it a great option for many dessert lovers seeking a gluten-free indulgence.
