Are Polly waffles gluten-free? The definitive guide

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

First introduced in 1947, the legendary Polly Waffle flavor is back, but in a new bite-sized format from Menz. A key change is that the relaunched Menz Polly Waffle Bites are now explicitly labeled gluten-free, making them suitable for coeliacs and those with gluten sensitivities.

Quick Summary

The iconic Polly Waffle has returned as gluten-free bites produced by Menz Confectionery. Unlike the original bar, the new recipe uses gluten-free ingredients, including a rice flour-based wafer. This makes the bites a safe treat for people following a gluten-free diet.

Key Points

Gluten-Free Status: The relaunched Menz Polly Waffle Bites are officially gluten-free, with a clear label on the packaging.
Not the Original Recipe: The original Polly Waffle bar, discontinued in 2009, contained a wheat-based wafer and was not suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients Matter: The new "Bites" recipe uses a rice flour-based wafer crumb instead of the original wheat wafer.
Always Check the Label: Product formulations can change, so always read the current packaging to confirm the 'Gluten Free' status and check for other allergens.
Format Change: The product has been re-released in a bite-sized format, distinct from the original full bar.
Brand Ownership: The current Polly Waffle is produced by Menz Confectionery, not the original owners Hoadley's or Nestlé.
Coeliac Safe: Due to its formulation and labeling, the new product is a safe treat for coeliacs and those with gluten intolerance.

The Shift to Gluten-Free: Original vs. New Polly Waffles

For decades, the original Polly Waffle bar was a beloved Australian treat featuring a marshmallow-filled wafer tube, all coated in milk chocolate. For individuals with gluten sensitivities, this was an off-limits indulgence, as the wafer component contained wheat. When production ceased in 2009, many believed the product was gone for good. However, Australian confectioner Robern Menz (now Menz Confectionery) acquired the rights and, after extensive development, relaunched the product in 2024 as bite-sized pieces.

One of the most significant and welcome changes for a large segment of the population was the decision to make the new Polly Waffle Bites gluten-free. This change was a deliberate move to modernize the classic treat and make it accessible to a wider audience, including those with coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. Instead of a traditional wheat-based wafer, Menz formulated a new wafer crumb using rice flour, tapioca starch, and maize starch. This ingredient swap ensures that the nostalgic flavour combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and crunchy wafer can be enjoyed by many who previously couldn't.

What Are Polly Waffle Bites Made Of?

The current Menz Polly Waffle Bites proudly carry a clear 'Gluten Free' label on their packaging, a crucial indicator for shoppers with dietary restrictions. The list of ingredients reflects the new, gluten-friendly formulation. To understand what goes into these treats, let's break down the components:

Milk Chocolate (60%): A smooth, creamy coating made from sugar, cocoa butter, milk powder, and cocoa liquor, using soy lecithin as an emulsifier.
Marshmallow Centre (25%): A sweet, fluffy filling made from liquid sugar, glucose syrup, beef gelatine, and a natural vanilla flavour.
Wafer Crumb (15%): The key to its gluten-free status, this crunchy component is made from a blend of rice flour, cane sugar, tapioca starch, and maize starch.

This careful selection of ingredients allows Menz to replicate the classic flavour profile without including gluten. However, it is always essential to check the allergen information on the packaging, as the product does contain milk and soy and may have been processed in a facility that handles other common allergens like nuts.

Is It Safe for Coeliacs? Understanding Cross-Contamination

For individuals with coeliac disease, strict avoidance of gluten is paramount. The 'Gluten Free' certification on the Menz Polly Waffle Bites packaging is a strong reassurance. In Australia, this label signifies that the product meets stringent standards and contains no detectable gluten. For coeliacs, this means the product should be safe to consume. However, it's always recommended to exercise caution and read the label on every purchase, as manufacturing processes and ingredient sourcing can change over time. The label typically also lists potential cross-contamination warnings, such as "may contain traces of..." for other allergens.

Comparing the Original and New Versions

To highlight the key differences for consumers, especially those who remember the original, here is a comparison table:


Feature	Original Polly Waffle Bar	Menz Polly Waffle Bites
Gluten Status	Contained Gluten (wheat wafer)	Gluten-Free (rice flour wafer crumb)
Format	Single chocolate bar	Bite-sized pieces
Manufacturer	Hoadley's, later Nestlé	Robern Menz (Menz Confectionery)
Wafer Ingredient	Wheat flour	Rice flour, tapioca starch, maize starch
Availability	Discontinued in 2009	Relaunched in 2024

Finding and Identifying Gluten-Free Polly Waffles

Finding the gluten-free Menz Polly Waffle Bites is relatively straightforward. They are stocked in major Australian supermarkets, such as Coles and Woolworths, in the chocolate or confectionery aisle. They are also available from various online retailers specializing in Australian confectionery or gluten-free products. To be certain you are purchasing the correct product, look for these distinguishing features:

Product Name: Ensure the packaging says "Menz Polly Waffle Bites".
Labeling: Look for the clear "Gluten Free" marking on the front of the bag.
Format: The product is now sold as small, bite-sized pieces, not a single bar.

The return of this nostalgic treat as a gluten-free option is a huge win for those who thought they would never taste it again. This strategic recipe change by Menz has brought a classic back to life for a new generation and for those with dietary needs.

Conclusion

In summary, while the original Polly Waffle bar was not gluten-free, the modern Menz Polly Waffle Bites are officially a gluten-free product. The manufacturer has confirmed its gluten-free status on the packaging, making it a safe and delicious option for individuals with coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity. The key lies in the updated recipe, which substitutes traditional wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives for the wafer component. Always remember to check the product label to ensure it aligns with your specific dietary needs before purchasing.

For more information on the revival of the Polly Waffle and the work of Menz Confectionery, you can visit their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, only the modern Menz Polly Waffle Bites are gluten-free. The original Polly Waffle bar, discontinued in 2009, contained gluten in its wheat-based wafer.

The main difference is the ingredients and format. The new bites use a rice flour wafer crumb and are gluten-free, while the original bar used a wheat-based wafer and was not.

You can find them in major Australian supermarkets, such as Coles and Woolworths, as well as in various online confectionery stores.

Yes, the wafer crumb used in the Menz Polly Waffle Bites is made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and maize starch, and is certified gluten-free.

The product is explicitly labeled gluten-free, suggesting it meets strict standards for gluten content. However, like with any packaged food, it's always wise for coeliacs to check the label for specific allergen statements.

The new producer, Menz Confectionery, chose to update the recipe for the relaunch to cater to a broader audience, including those with dietary restrictions.

Yes, the product contains milk and soy. The packaging typically lists other potential allergens it may contain traces of, such as almonds and peanuts, so always check the label.

No, a gluten-free version has only existed since the product was relaunched as Menz Polly Waffle Bites in 2024. The original Polly Waffle bar contained gluten.