Not all Nature's Bakery products are gluten free
One of the most important facts for consumers to understand is that the Nature's Bakery product line is not entirely gluten-free. While they offer a dedicated line of 'Gluten Free Fig Bars', they also produce snacks like 'Whole Wheat Fig Bars' which, as the name suggests, contain wheat. For individuals managing celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, it is absolutely essential to carefully check the product packaging for the certified gluten-free label.
The Certified Gluten-Free Product Line
Nature's Bakery takes specific measures for their gluten-free offerings. The 'Gluten Free Fig Bars' are baked with ancient grains, such as amaranth, teff, sorghum, and quinoa, in a facility that is certified gluten-free. This manufacturing segregation is intended to prevent cross-contamination from their wheat-containing products.
Ingredients in a Typical Gluten-Free Fig Bar:
- Brown Rice Syrup
- Fig Paste
- Gluten Free Flour (Tapioca Starch, Rice Flour)
- Fruit Jam (e.g., Raspberry or Blueberry filling)
- Canola Oil
- Gluten Free Five Grain Flour (Amaranth, Quinoa, Millet, Sorghum, Teff)
- Date Paste
- Gluten Free Rolled Oats
- Flaxseed
Potential for Cross-Contamination
Despite manufacturing their gluten-free line in a separate, certified facility, some individuals with severe sensitivities may still have concerns. The presence of both wheat and gluten-free products under the same brand name can create confusion. This highlights the importance of always checking the label and looking for third-party certifications like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) mark. The manufacturer itself confirms that while the gluten-free bars are made separately, wheat is present within their overall manufacturing facilities. For some with extreme sensitivities, this information may be a deciding factor.
Comparison of Nature's Bakery Product Lines
| Feature | Certified Gluten-Free Fig Bars | Whole Wheat Fig Bars |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Ancient Grains (Amaranth, Quinoa, Teff, etc.) | Whole Wheat Flour |
| Certification | Yes, by Gluten Intolerance Group | No |
| Manufacturing | Dedicated, Certified Gluten-Free Facility | Facility that processes wheat |
| Allergen Info | Labeled Gluten-Free, Vegan, Dairy-Free | Contains Wheat, Vegan, Dairy-Free |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Extremely Low (in certified product) | High (for gluten) |
| Target Audience | Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity | General consumers seeking a whole grain snack |
Why is the 'Certified Gluten Free' label important?
The 'Certified Gluten Free' label is more than just a marketing term; it represents an external, third-party verification process. This certification ensures that products consistently meet a strict set of standards for gluten content, which in many cases is below 10 or 20 parts per million (ppm), a level generally considered safe for people with celiac disease. This goes beyond simply listing ingredients and provides an extra layer of trust for consumers who need to be extremely vigilant about their diet.
Common sources of accidental gluten exposure:
- Cross-Contact at Home: Using shared utensils, cutting boards, or toasters can transfer gluten crumbs.
- Restaurants and Food Service: Shared kitchen spaces and cooking surfaces can lead to contamination if staff are not properly trained.
- Incorrect Label Reading: Confusing brands that offer both gluten-free and non-gluten-free products.
- Shared Facilities (without certification): When products are not made in a dedicated facility, the risk of contamination is higher.
Conclusion: Read Labels and Choose Wisely
To summarize, the answer to "Are Nature's Bakery products gluten free?" is twofold: yes, some specific products are, but the entire brand is not. The company clearly labels their certified gluten-free items, which are made in a separate facility with ancient grains instead of wheat. For those with celiac disease or a high sensitivity, only the products explicitly marked 'Certified Gluten-Free' should be consumed. Always exercise caution by reading the label and understanding the manufacturing process if you have serious dietary restrictions. This due diligence ensures your snacking is both safe and enjoyable. For further details on Nature's Bakery's specific product lines and certifications, refer to their official website.
