Official Stance on Breath Savers and Gluten
The Hershey Company, which owns the Breath Savers brand, has officially stated that their mints do not contain gluten ingredients. This is a reassuring fact for consumers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The official Hershey's website provides a FAQ section confirming that Breath Savers are a gluten-free friendly option. However, it is always recommended to check the specific product's packaging for the most current and accurate ingredient and allergen information, as formulations can occasionally change.
Diving Into the Ingredients
To understand why peppermint Breath Savers are gluten-free, a look at their ingredients is helpful. The list typically includes:
- Sorbitol (a sugar alcohol)
- Natural and artificial flavorings
- Baking soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
- Magnesium stearate
- Aspartame (Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine)
- Zinc gluconate
- Medium chain triglycerides
- Artificial colors.
None of these core ingredients are derived from wheat, barley, or rye, which are the main sources of gluten. Sorbitol and other sugar alcohols are common sweeteners in sugar-free products and are naturally gluten-free. Aspartame, another sweetener, is also gluten-free. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and zinc gluconate are mineral-based ingredients without gluten. The remaining components, including flavorings and colorings, are also not derived from gluten-containing grains.
The All-Important Cross-Contamination Issue
While the ingredients themselves are gluten-free, a significant concern for those with celiac disease is cross-contamination during manufacturing. In the past, companies like Hershey's may have processed different products on the same equipment. However, the official statement from Hershey's indicates careful handling. It's always a good practice to look for a specific gluten-free label or certification on the packaging, even if the ingredients list is clean. Many third-party certification organizations, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), provide added assurance for consumers. Hershey's recommendation to refer to the package for allergen statements is a direct acknowledgment of this concern.
Comparison of Breath Mints for Gluten-Free Diets
To make an informed decision, it's useful to compare Breath Savers with other popular breath mints regarding their gluten-free status.
| Feature | Breath Savers (Peppermint) | Altoids (Peppermint) | Life Savers (Wint O Green) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Status | Yes (stated by Hershey's) | Regular Tins are Yes, but caution with minis | Generally considered yes, but not certified |
| Sugar-Free | Yes | No (regular tins) | No (regular rolls) |
| Manufacturer | The Hershey Company | Wrigley (a subsidiary of Mars) | Wrigley (a subsidiary of Mars) |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Low, but check package for latest info | Varies by product line, minis may have wheat maltodextrin | Possible, as not certified |
| Certification | Not explicitly certified on Hersheyland FAQ | Not officially certified | Not officially certified |
Identifying Gluten-Free Friendly Brands
- Smarties: This company states that all of its products are gluten-free and made in exclusively gluten-free facilities, making them a very safe option.
- Tootsie Roll Industries: The company declares all of its confections gluten-free and uses no gluten-containing grains in manufacturing.
- Enjoy Life Foods: These products are free-from the "top-eight" allergens, including wheat and gluten, and are made in a dedicated facility.
- Pez: Pez candies are another option that is typically gluten-free.
- Other Candy: For many candies, especially those from larger manufacturers, checking the company website or contacting customer service is the most reliable way to confirm gluten-free status. Ingredients and processing methods can change.
Conclusion
For those wondering, are peppermint Breath Savers gluten-free? The answer is yes, based on the manufacturer's official statements and a review of the ingredients. The mints do not contain gluten ingredients, making them a safe choice for individuals managing celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. While the risk of cross-contamination appears low, the best practice is always to read the label on the specific package you are purchasing. For those who require absolute certainty, seeking products with an official gluten-free certification logo is the most foolproof method. Thankfully, peppermint Breath Savers are a strong contender for a safe and refreshing breath mint for those on a gluten-free diet.
For more information on living with celiac disease, consider visiting the official Celiac Disease Foundation website.
Summary of Findings
Based on official company information from Hershey's, peppermint Breath Savers do not contain any gluten-based ingredients. A look at the typical ingredients list, which primarily consists of sorbitol, baking soda, and flavoring, confirms the absence of gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye. While the manufacturer does not explicitly state the product is certified gluten-free, they do encourage customers to read the package labels for the most up-to-date allergen information to ensure their safety. This makes Breath Savers a reliable option for those following a gluten-free diet, but personal vigilance with label checking is always advised, particularly regarding cross-contamination. Many other dedicated gluten-free candy brands also exist for those seeking extra reassurance.
