The Clear Verdict: Mr. Tom's Are Not Gluten-Free
For anyone managing a gluten-free diet, the most direct answer is that Mr. Tom's peanut brittle products are not safe to consume. Numerous retailers and the product manufacturer, Hosta, explicitly state that the bars either contain gluten or are subject to cross-contamination. While the core ingredients of peanuts, sugar, and glucose syrup might seem naturally free of gluten, the manufacturing process and added flavourings introduce the risk.
Why You'll Find a Warning
Most packaging for Mr. Tom's includes a clear warning stating that it "May contain traces of cereals containing gluten". This warning is a non-negotiable red flag for individuals with coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition where even tiny amounts of gluten can cause significant intestinal damage. For those with milder gluten sensitivities, the risk may vary, but the presence of the warning makes the product an unsuitable and uncertain choice.
Dissecting the Ingredient List
While ingredients can vary slightly by market and product version (Original vs. Salted Caramel), the allergen status remains consistent. Looking at a typical ingredients list reveals the reasons behind the gluten warning. Some versions include 'Caramel Sugar Syrup' which can contain gluten derivatives, and the production environment poses the highest risk of cross-contamination.
The Critical Issue of Cross-Contamination
Even if a specific batch's ingredients were technically gluten-free, the potential for cross-contamination is why Mr. Tom's is not considered safe. The phrase "May contain traces of..." indicates that the product is made in a facility that also processes items containing gluten. This shared equipment, shared air, and shared staff environment means that there is a risk of stray particles of gluten getting into the product. For those with a severe reaction, this risk is unacceptable.
Comparison: Mr. Tom's vs. Certified Gluten-Free Brittle
To illustrate the difference, here is a comparison table outlining key considerations for Mr. Tom's and a typical certified gluten-free alternative.
| Feature | Mr. Tom's Peanut Brittle | Certified Gluten-Free Peanut Brittle |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Not Gluten-Free. Contains or may contain traces of gluten. | Guaranteed Gluten-Free. Typically tested to be below 20 ppm of gluten. |
| Cross-Contamination | High risk due to shared manufacturing equipment. | Negligible risk due to dedicated equipment and facilities. |
| Suitability for Coeliacs | Unsafe. Not suitable for consumption due to high-risk warnings. | Safe. Designed specifically for individuals with gluten sensitivities. |
| Ingredients | Peanuts, glucose syrup, sugar, flavourings. May include ingredients derived from cereals containing gluten. | High-quality, simple ingredients (peanuts, sugar, corn syrup, etc.), verified to be free of gluten. |
How to Find a Safe Alternative
Finding a safe peanut brittle substitute requires vigilance and careful label reading. The following steps can help you find a suitable gluten-free snack.
- Look for Certification Seals: The most reliable way to ensure a product is gluten-free is to look for a third-party certification seal, such as the Crossed Grain symbol or the Certified Gluten-Free mark. These symbols mean the product has been independently tested and verified to meet strict standards.
- Check the Allergen Statement: Always read the 'Allergens' or 'Ingredients' box carefully. If it mentions 'wheat', 'barley', 'rye', or 'cereals containing gluten', the product is not for you. This is also where you will find the critical "May contain" warnings.
- Search for Dedicated Facilities: Some smaller, artisanal brittle manufacturers make their products in dedicated gluten-free facilities. For example, some brands like Brittle-Brittle highlight their production methods to guarantee safety for coeliacs.
- Try DIY: Making your own peanut brittle at home is a simple and rewarding way to ensure it is 100% gluten-free. Ingredients like peanuts, sugar, and corn syrup are naturally gluten-free, but always source your ingredients carefully.
The Rise of Gluten-Free Options
Fortunately, with growing awareness of food allergies and coeliac disease, the market for gluten-free snacks has expanded significantly. Many companies now specialize in producing classic treats, including brittle, in a way that is safe for everyone. This means you don't have to miss out on the sweet, crunchy experience, as long as you choose a different brand. To ensure complete safety, you can always visit a manufacturer's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date allergen information. For additional resources and information on managing a gluten-free lifestyle, you can consult reputable sources such as M&M Food Market's page on dietary considerations.
Conclusion
In summary, Mr. Tom's peanut brittle is not a gluten-free product. The presence of allergen warnings and potential cross-contamination makes it an unsafe choice for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity. While traditionally made peanut brittle can be naturally gluten-free, consumers must always check labels for commercially produced items. Luckily, the market provides an ever-growing array of safe, certified gluten-free options that allow everyone to enjoy this classic confection without risk.
