The Simple Mills Gluten-Free Guarantee
For many consumers, especially those with dietary restrictions, the label on a product is a primary source of trust. The good news for those wondering if Simple Mills almond flour bars are gluten-free is that the company explicitly states that all of its products are naturally gluten-free and undergo extensive third-party laboratory testing. This certification provides a higher level of assurance beyond simply not having gluten-containing ingredients listed on the label. The brand's commitment to taking its gluten-free status 'very seriously' and going 'above and beyond the industry standards' is a key factor for individuals prioritizing a strict gluten-free nutrition diet.
Ingredient Profile of Almond Flour Bars
The gluten-free status of Simple Mills bars begins with their ingredient list. The primary components of these bars, such as almond flour, coconut flour, and seed blends (sunflower, flax, chia), are all naturally free of gluten. This focus on simple, purposeful, whole-food ingredients is a hallmark of the Simple Mills brand. A typical list of ingredients for a dark chocolate almond bar includes:
- Almond flour
- Organic coconut nectar
- Seed & seed flour blend (sunflower, flax, chia)
- Chocolate chips (cane sugar, unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter)
- Tapioca starch
- Organic coconut oil
- Almond butter
- Molasses
- Egg whites
- Raisin juice concentrate (for freshness)
- Sea salt
- Baking soda
- Rosemary extract (for freshness)
By building its products on a foundation of naturally gluten-free ingredients, Simple Mills reduces the risk of gluten contamination right from the start. Furthermore, using ingredients like almond flour, arrowroot, and flax meal adds a nutrient-dense quality that can offer benefits for overall nutrition.
Production and Allergen Control
While starting with naturally gluten-free ingredients is a crucial first step, preventing cross-contamination during manufacturing is what truly earns a product its 'certified gluten-free' label. Simple Mills uses a comprehensive allergen control process to ensure product integrity. This process includes:
- Segregating allergens: Ingredients are stored separately to prevent mixing.
- Allergen cleans: Full allergen cleans are conducted between production runs to remove any residue from previous batches.
- Testing manufacturing equipment: Equipment is tested for allergens before being used for a new production run.
- Third-party testing: Finished products undergo external lab testing to confirm gluten content is below acceptable levels.
It is important to note that while the company has robust procedures, unexpected incidents can happen. For example, a 2021 recall was issued for their Fine Ground Sea Salt Almond Flour Crackers due to an inadvertent mix-up with Farmhouse Cheddar crackers, which introduced an undeclared milk allergen. While this was a milk, not gluten, contamination event, it serves as a reminder for consumers with severe allergies to stay vigilant and check for any and all allergen updates from brands they trust.
Simple Mills vs. Other Gluten-Free Bars: A Comparison
When choosing a gluten-free snack bar, consumers have various options. The table below compares Simple Mills almond flour bars to a generic gluten-free bar and a traditional grain-based bar to highlight key differences.
| Feature | Simple Mills Almond Flour Bar | Generic “Gluten-Free” Bar | Traditional Grain-Based Bar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Flour Base | Almond Flour, Coconut Flour | Rice Flour, Oats (often certified) | Wheat Flour, Whole Grains |
| Certified Gluten-Free | Yes, certified | Often, but confirmation needed | No |
| Grain-Free | Yes | May contain gluten-free grains | No |
| Artificial Ingredients | No artificial ingredients | May contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives | Common to contain artificial ingredients |
| Nutrition Focus | Nutrient-dense, whole-food ingredients | Varies widely by brand | Often higher in sugar, fewer nutrients |
The Role of Almond Flour in Gluten-Free Diets
Almond flour is a popular gluten-free alternative because it is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Unlike some other gluten-free flours that are primarily starch-based, almond flour provides a nutritional boost that aligns with clean-eating and Paleo-friendly diets. In Simple Mills bars, the use of almond flour contributes to a moist, soft-baked texture while providing a source of sustained energy. This makes them a satisfying and nourishing snack option for those following a gluten-free lifestyle, and part of a balanced nutrition diet.
Why Certification Matters for Your Nutrition Diet
For a person with celiac disease, even trace amounts of gluten can cause significant health problems. A product labeled “gluten-free” means it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, a “certified gluten-free” mark, such as that provided by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), often indicates even stricter testing standards, potentially as low as 10 ppm. For someone following a nutrition diet, choosing certified products provides the highest level of assurance that cross-contamination is minimized, safeguarding their health. While Simple Mills has a robust internal process, their use of third-party validation provides an extra layer of confidence.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, “Are Simple Mills almond flour bars gluten-free?” is a resounding yes. The company uses naturally gluten-free, purposeful ingredients in all its products and backs up this claim with a rigorous third-party certification program that includes finished-product testing. By prioritizing strict allergen controls during production, Simple Mills ensures that its almond flour bars are a safe and delicious snack option for those maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle or seeking clean, nutrient-dense foods. As with any packaged food, consumers should always perform their own label checks and stay informed about any potential product updates, especially if they have severe sensitivities.
For more information on the brand's commitment to clean ingredients and allergen control, you can visit the official Simple Mills website at simplemills.com.