Are Made Good Rice Krispie Treats Gluten-Free? A Guide to Safe Snacking

Over 3 million Americans have celiac disease, with many more having gluten sensitivity, making label reading a vital skill. For those asking, 'Are Made Good rice krispie treats gluten-free?', the answer is yes, though this stands in stark contrast to their conventional counterparts.

Quick Summary

This article explains why Made Good crispy squares are certified gluten-free, unlike traditional Rice Krispies Treats. It covers the gluten-containing ingredient to avoid, cross-contamination risks, and provides a guide for creating safe, homemade alternatives.

Key Points

• Made Good Treats are Certified Gluten-Free: Unlike traditional treats, the Made Good brand guarantees its Crispy Squares are gluten-free and made in an allergen-friendly facility.

• Conventional Rice Krispies Cereal Contains Gluten: The original Kellogg's Rice Krispies are not gluten-free because they use barley-derived malt flavoring.

• Always Check Ingredient Labels: Assume nothing when on a gluten-free diet; always read the ingredient list for potential hidden gluten, such as malt.

• Homemade Versions are a Safe Alternative: Easily make your own gluten-free rice krispie treats by using a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and other safe ingredients.

• Watch for Cross-Contamination: For celiac disease, it's essential to prevent cross-contamination by using dedicated utensils and cookware for preparation.

• Key Ingredients Need Scrutiny: While most marshmallows, butter, and pure vanilla extract are gluten-free, always use certified products to be certain and check for cross-contamination warnings.

Understanding the Gluten-Free Status of Rice Krispie Treats

For many on a gluten-free diet, a crispy, sweet rice treat seems like a safe bet. After all, rice is naturally gluten-free. However, the reality is more complex, primarily due to one specific ingredient found in the original cereal. The good news is that for those seeking a reliable, ready-made option, Made Good crispy squares offer a certified gluten-free solution. This guide will demystify the gluten content in these popular treats and empower you to make informed decisions for your diet.

Why Conventional Rice Krispies Treats are Not Gluten-Free

The primary reason that traditional Rice Krispies treats are not suitable for a gluten-free diet is the cereal itself. Conventional Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring, which is derived from barley, a grain that contains gluten. Because barley is a gluten-containing grain, any product using this malt flavoring is not considered gluten-free and is unsafe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This is a classic example of hidden gluten, where an otherwise safe base ingredient (rice) is compromised by a seemingly innocuous flavoring additive.

The Made Good Difference

In contrast, Made Good is a brand dedicated to creating allergy-friendly and gluten-free products. Their Crispy Squares are certified organic, vegan, and, most importantly, certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). The company ensures their products are made in a dedicated nut-free and top allergen-free facility, which provides peace of mind regarding cross-contamination for those with severe allergies and celiac disease. The assurance of certification is crucial because it means the product has been tested to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, meeting the FDA's strict standards.

How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Treats

Creating your own gluten-free version at home is a simple and rewarding process. It allows for complete control over ingredients and minimizes any risk of cross-contamination. The recipe requires only a few key ingredients:

• Gluten-Free Crispy Rice Cereal: This is the most critical swap. Instead of Kellogg's, use a certified gluten-free alternative. Brands like Malt-O-Meal Crispy Rice (despite its name), Nature's Path Crispy Rice, or store brands from Whole Foods (365) and Aldi (Millville) are excellent choices.
• Marshmallows: Most marshmallows are naturally gluten-free, typically made from sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin. Popular brands like Kraft Jet-Puffed and Campfire are generally safe. However, always check the label for potential flavorings or manufacturing processes that could introduce gluten. For vegans, Dandies offers a gluten-free and gelatin-free alternative.
• Butter: Pure, unflavored butter is naturally gluten-free. For a dairy-free and gluten-free version, you can substitute with a plant-based butter substitute or coconut oil.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is typically gluten-free, but it is always best to use a brand that is specifically labeled or certified gluten-free to avoid any risk of cross-contamination.

A Simple Homemade Recipe

• Ingredients:
  • 4 Tbsp butter (or dairy-free substitute)
  • 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 6 cups gluten-free crispy rice cereal
• Instructions:
  1. Line a 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
  2. In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add most of the marshmallows (reserving about 1 cup) and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and the reserved marshmallows, allowing them to soften slightly to create pockets of gooeyness.
  4. Quickly fold in the gluten-free crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
  5. Press the mixture gently into the prepared pan using a greased spatula. Do not press too firmly to avoid a hard, dense treat.
  6. Let cool for at least one hour before cutting into squares and serving.

Comparison of Rice Krispie Treat Options

Feature	Made Good Crispy Squares	Homemade Gluten-Free Treats	Conventional Rice Krispies Treats
Gluten-Free?	Yes, certified gluten-free.	Yes, if ingredients are certified GF.	No, contains barley malt.
Ingredients	Organic rice, plant-based sweeteners, vegetable extracts.	Certified GF rice cereal, marshmallows, butter, vanilla.	Kellogg's Rice Krispies (with malt), marshmallows, butter.
Allergy-Friendly	Yes, made in a dedicated nut and top allergen-free facility.	Depends on ingredients used; high control over allergens.	Contains gluten; may have cross-contamination risk for other allergens.
Taste & Texture	Wholesome, slightly different texture due to brown rice or added veggies.	Can replicate the classic taste and texture perfectly.	The classic, but not safe for a gluten-free diet.
Convenience	Highly convenient, pre-packaged single servings.	Requires time to purchase ingredients and prepare.	Convenient, but not an option for gluten-free diets.

The Importance of Avoiding Cross-Contamination

For individuals with celiac disease, even trace amounts of gluten can trigger an immune response. This makes avoiding cross-contamination a critical step, especially with homemade preparations. Here are a few tips:

• Dedicated Utensils and Cookware: Use clean pots, spatulas, and cutting boards that have not been in contact with gluten-containing foods.
• Separate Ingredients: Store gluten-free ingredients, like your crispy rice cereal, separately from gluten-containing items to prevent accidental mixing.
• Label Everything: Clearly label ingredients, especially butter, to ensure no one mistakenly uses a contaminated utensil.

Conclusion

The straightforward answer to whether Made Good rice krispie treats are gluten-free is a resounding yes, making them a safe and convenient option. However, traditional Rice Krispies treats, even when homemade, are not, due to the barley malt in the original cereal. For those who prefer a homemade touch, making your own gluten-free version is easy by swapping the main ingredient and being mindful of cross-contamination. By being vigilant with ingredients and opting for certified products like Made Good or carefully sourcing your own, you can enjoy this classic crispy treat without compromising your dietary needs.

For Further Reading:

• Celiac Disease Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal gluten-free?

No, conventional Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal is not gluten-free because it contains malt flavoring derived from barley, a gluten-containing grain.

Which brands of crispy rice cereal are safe for a gluten-free diet?

Safe gluten-free crispy rice cereal brands include Malt-O-Meal Crispy Rice, Nature's Path Crispy Rice Cereal, and store brands from Whole Foods (365) and Aldi (Millville). Always look for a 'certified gluten-free' label.

Are marshmallows gluten-free?

Most marshmallows are naturally gluten-free, but it's important to check the label for any added flavorings or starches that might contain gluten. Popular brands like Kraft Jet-Puffed and Doumak Campfire are considered safe.

Can people with celiac disease eat traditional Rice Krispies Treats?

No, people with celiac disease should not eat traditional Rice Krispies Treats because they are made with cereal containing barley malt, which has gluten.

Are Made Good crispy squares free from other allergens?

Yes, Made Good Crispy Squares are made in a dedicated peanut and tree nut-free facility and are free from many common allergens, making them a safe choice for those with multiple sensitivities.

What is barley malt and why is it in rice cereal?

Barley malt is a flavoring derived from barley that is used to add a slightly sweet flavor to cereals. Because barley contains gluten, any product with malt flavoring is not gluten-free.

How can I avoid cross-contamination when making gluten-free treats at home?

To avoid cross-contamination, use dedicated and thoroughly cleaned utensils, pots, and pans. Keep gluten-free ingredients stored separately and ensure all surfaces are clean before starting your preparation.

Is pure vanilla extract always gluten-free?

Pure vanilla extract is naturally gluten-free. However, for those with high sensitivity, it is best to choose a certified gluten-free brand to ensure there was no cross-contamination during processing.