Yes, ONE Cinnamon Roll Protein Bars are Certified Gluten-Free
For consumers with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or those following a gluten-free lifestyle, the good news is that ONE Cinnamon Roll protein bars are officially designated as certified gluten-free. This certification is a key detail, as it goes beyond a simple 'gluten-free' claim on a package. It indicates that the product has been tested by a third-party organization, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), and meets their stringent standards for gluten content. In the case of GFCO, this means the product contains 10 parts per million (ppm) or less of gluten, a stricter benchmark than the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 20 ppm regulation for general gluten-free labeling.
Understanding the Difference: Gluten-Free vs. Certified Gluten-Free
While a product can be labeled 'gluten-free' if it contains less than 20 ppm of gluten, this does not guarantee protection against cross-contamination that can occur in manufacturing facilities. For individuals with celiac disease, who may experience a reaction to even trace amounts of gluten, this distinction is critical. Products with official certification, like the ONE bar, offer a higher level of assurance because the certification process includes extensive auditing of production facilities, ongoing testing, and strict ingredient requirements to minimize or eliminate cross-contamination risk.
How to Verify for Yourself
Although the manufacturer clearly states the product is gluten-free, smart shoppers always verify for themselves. You can follow a few simple steps:
- Read the Label: Look for the specific certification symbol, such as the GFCO mark, on the packaging. This is the quickest way to confirm the product's status.
- Check the Ingredient List: Familiarize yourself with common gluten-containing ingredients, including wheat, barley, rye, and malt. Even in gluten-free products, it's wise to scan for any ingredients that might raise concerns, though certified products should be free of these.
- Look for 'May Contain' Warnings: On non-certified products, manufacturers may include a 'may contain' warning for allergens. However, certified gluten-free products are held to a standard that makes these warnings less of a concern for gluten, since cross-contamination risks are managed through the certification process.
Ingredients in Gluten-Free Protein Bars
Protein bars designed to be gluten-free utilize alternative ingredients for structure and flavor. While traditional bars might use wheat flour or barley malt, gluten-free alternatives rely on different sources. The ONE Cinnamon Roll bar achieves its nutritional profile using whey protein isolate and natural flavorings, avoiding gluten-containing grains entirely. Other common gluten-free components in similar bars include:
- Certified gluten-free oats
- Nuts and seeds
- Brown rice protein
- Pea protein
- Natural sweeteners like tapioca syrup or coconut nectar
A Comparison: Certified Gluten-Free vs. Standard Protein Bars
| Feature | Certified Gluten-Free Protein Bars (e.g., ONE Bar) | Standard Protein Bars (Non-Certified) |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten Content | Guaranteed less than 10-20 ppm, depending on standard. | Can contain gluten from wheat, barley, or rye. |
| Cross-Contamination | Manufacturing processes are audited to prevent cross-contact. | Risk of cross-contamination from shared equipment. |
| Verification | Look for certification symbol (e.g., GFCO, Crossed Grain). | Requires careful reading of ingredient list for gluten sources. |
| Ingredient Sourcing | High-risk ingredients are tested to ensure purity. | Ingredients may contain hidden sources of gluten. |
| Consumer Confidence | High assurance for individuals with celiac disease. | Lower confidence due to potential for trace gluten or mislabeling. |
Conclusion
For those needing to adhere to a gluten-free diet, the ONE Cinnamon Roll protein bar is a safe and reliable option. Its official certified gluten-free status confirms it meets rigorous standards for gluten content, significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination that can be a concern with non-certified products. As with any packaged food, consumers should always take a moment to review the label for the certification symbol and any other ingredients relevant to their personal dietary needs. This ensures a guilt-free indulgence that aligns with a healthy, gluten-free lifestyle.
Staying Vigilant with Food Labels
Even with certified products, maintaining awareness of food labels is crucial for anyone with a gluten intolerance. Understanding ingredients and manufacturing processes empowers you to make informed decisions and remain in control of your diet. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your snack is both delicious and safe is well worth the simple effort of checking for that certification mark.
List of ingredients to watch for (unless certified gluten-free):
- Wheat, including varieties like spelt, farina, and kamut
- Barley, often found as malt or brewer's yeast
- Rye
- Oats that are not specifically certified gluten-free
- Malt flavoring or extract
- Soy sauce (often contains wheat)
For more information on safe gluten-free labeling, you can consult the Celiac Disease Foundation.