Are normal Hershey Kisses gluten-free? Here's what you need to know

October 16, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Hershey Company, many of its products, including certain varieties of Hershey's Kisses, are considered gluten-free and meet US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards. However, it is crucial for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to know that not all varieties of Hershey's Kisses are safe.

Quick Summary

The gluten-free status of Hershey's Kisses is not universal across all flavors. While the standard milk chocolate variety is generally considered gluten-free, several other flavors contain gluten or carry a risk of cross-contamination. Always check the ingredients and allergen statements on the packaging, as product formulations and manufacturing practices can change.

Key Points

Normal Hershey Kisses are gluten-free: The classic silver-wrapped Milk Chocolate Hershey's Kisses are included on the Hershey Company's official gluten-free product list.
Not all varieties are gluten-free: Many specialty and seasonal flavors, like Cookies 'n' Creme or Sugar Cookie, contain gluten or are not designated as gluten-free.
Read the label every time: Product formulations and manufacturing practices can change, so always check the most current ingredient and allergen statements on the packaging.
Check for explicit 'gluten-free' claims: The Hershey Company labels products that meet FDA standards of less than 20 ppm of gluten, providing a reliable indication of safety.
Be aware of cross-contamination risks: While Hershey has procedures to prevent crossover, some flavored varieties might be processed on shared equipment with products containing gluten.
Consult the official Hershey list: For the most reliable information, refer to the gluten-free product list on The Hershey Company's website.
Exercise caution with flavored and mixed varieties: Flavors that include additions like almonds or cookies are often the ones to watch out for, as they are less likely to be gluten-free.

Understanding Hershey's Gluten-Free Labeling

The Hershey Company explicitly labels certain products as "gluten-free" according to strict U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, which require the food to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The company provides a list of these products on its website, including the classic Milk Chocolate Kisses. However, this certification does not apply to every flavor, and it is vital for consumers to understand the distinction.

The key to navigating this is to always consult the most current information available, which can be found directly on the product's packaging. The Hershey Company advises consumers to read the label each time they purchase a product, as ingredients can change. This practice is especially important for those with severe sensitivities or celiac disease, where even trace amounts of gluten can cause a reaction.

The Gluten-Free Status of Popular Hershey Kisses Varieties

Many consumers are surprised to learn that a treat as simple as a Hershey's Kiss can have a varied gluten status depending on its flavor. The classic silver-wrapped Milk Chocolate Kiss is widely recognized as gluten-free. However, the introduction of seasonal and new flavors often means new ingredients and a change in manufacturing processes, which can introduce gluten. For instance, flavors like Cookies 'n' Creme contain wheat, and others may be produced on shared equipment, leading to potential cross-contact.

Here is a list of some common Hershey's Kiss varieties and their gluten status, according to recent company information:

Gluten-Free Hershey's Kisses:

Milk Chocolate: The classic silver-wrapped version is safe.
Plain Milk Chocolate (Seasonal): Kisses wrapped in holiday-themed colored foils are also typically safe.
Hugs: All varieties of Hugs are generally considered gluten-free.
Caramel-Filled: Kisses filled with caramel are on the gluten-free list.
Cherry Cordial Creme-Filled: This flavored variety is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Special Dark: The Mildly Sweet Dark Chocolate Kisses are gluten-free, but be careful not to confuse them with the Special Dark candy bars, which are not.

Hershey's Kisses Containing or at Risk of Gluten:

Milk Chocolate with Almonds: This popular variety is not listed as gluten-free.
Cookies 'n' Creme: Contains wheat ingredients and is therefore not gluten-free.
Hot Cocoa: Flavors like this and others that mimic baked goods are often not gluten-free.
Sugar Cookie: This seasonal variety is known to contain gluten.
Birthday Cake: Another example of a flavored kiss that is not gluten-free.

Navigating Cross-Contamination Concerns

Beyond just the ingredients, the risk of cross-contamination is a serious consideration for those with celiac disease. The Hershey Company has stated that it has strict procedures in place to prevent the crossover of allergens. They also voluntarily add precautionary allergen labeling, such as "Manufactured on the same equipment that processes..." when they have a concern about possible cross-contact. However, this does not eliminate all risk, and some individuals with high sensitivity may still react to products from shared facilities.

For example, while some classic items may be deemed safe, other Hershey products like Kit Kats and Whoppers contain gluten and are processed in the same plants. A recent Facebook post even detailed an individual's reaction to a King Size Hershey Bar, speculating on a possible change in process, highlighting the need for vigilance. It is this potential for unseen cross-contact that often leads highly sensitive individuals to avoid certain brands entirely or stick only to products with clear gluten-free certification logos.

How to Verify for Your Safety

Given the complexity, following a consistent protocol is the best way to ensure safety. The most reliable method is to check the manufacturer's official gluten-free product list on their website. The Hershey Company provides an updated list that is a valuable resource. Additionally, always double-check the ingredient list on the specific product package you are purchasing. Look for a "gluten-free" claim on the label itself, which indicates the product meets FDA standards. Be wary of any product that only has a "no gluten ingredients" statement, as this does not necessarily mean it was processed in a gluten-free facility. If you are still unsure or have a severe allergy, consider reaching out to the company's customer service for clarification.

Comparison of Hershey's Kisses and Alternatives for Gluten-Free Diets


Candy Type	Gluten-Free Status	Allergens	Important Notes
Hershey's Kisses (Milk Chocolate)	Yes, on official list	Milk, Soy	Plain milk chocolate variety is generally considered safe. Always check packaging.
Hershey's Kisses (Cookies 'n' Creme)	No	Milk, Soy, Wheat	Clearly contains wheat. Not safe for gluten-free diets.
Hershey's Kisses (Milk Chocolate w/ Almonds)	No, not on official list	Milk, Soy, Almonds	Not designated as gluten-free; potential cross-contamination.
Hershey's Hugs (Milk Chocolate)	Yes, on official list	Milk, Soy	All varieties of Hugs are considered gluten-free.
Lily's Sugar-Free Chocolate	Yes, certified GF	Varies (read label)	All varieties are certified gluten-free, according to Fearless Dining.
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups	Yes, original flavor	Milk, Peanuts, Soy	Original cups are gluten-free, but seasonal shapes may not be. Always check labels.
Certified GF Chocolate Chips	Yes, if certified	Varies (read label)	A safe alternative for baking and melting into molds.

Conclusion: A Matter of Vigilance

While the classic Milk Chocolate Hershey's Kisses can be a safe treat for individuals on a gluten-free diet, the proliferation of new flavors makes it essential to exercise caution. The gluten-free status of these candies is not universal across all varieties. The Hershey Company's clear labeling practices are a valuable tool, but they require active participation from the consumer. Always read the most up-to-date ingredient and allergen information on the packaging, and when in doubt, choose a product from the company's official gluten-free list. This diligent approach is the best defense against accidental gluten exposure and ensures a safe indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

The classic, silver-wrapped Milk Chocolate Kisses are on The Hershey Company's official gluten-free list. Other varieties that may be safe include plain milk chocolate holiday kisses, Hugs, and some caramel-filled options. Always consult the most recent product packaging and the official website.

Yes, The Hershey Company advises consumers to use the ingredient and allergen list on the package as the most accurate and up-to-date source of information. They also add precautionary allergen labeling for cross-contact concerns.

Some flavors, such as Cookies 'n' Creme and certain seasonal offerings, use ingredients that contain wheat or other gluten-containing grains. These specific varieties are not considered gluten-free.

The Hershey Company has procedures to prevent cross-contact with allergens. However, since some other Hershey products containing gluten are processed in the same facilities, individuals with a high sensitivity should always check for specific 'gluten-free' labeling rather than relying solely on the absence of gluten ingredients.

Yes, product formulations and manufacturing practices can change. Hershey's advises that because of this, consumers should always check the ingredient label on the package for the most current information before purchasing.

No, Hershey's Kisses with almonds are not on the official gluten-free list and are therefore not considered safe for those on a gluten-free diet.

The FDA standard for a "gluten-free" claim is that the food must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The Hershey Company follows this regulation for its labeled products.