What Are Brach's Soft Peppermints Made Of?
For consumers with dietary restrictions, the first step in assessing a product's safety is examining its ingredient list. The ingredients for Brach's soft peppermints are surprisingly simple and contain no gluten-based items.
The ingredient list typically includes:
- Invert Sugar
- Peppermint Oil (adds a trivial amount of fat)
- Red 40
- Red 40 Lake
None of these ingredients are derived from wheat, barley, or rye, which are the common sources of gluten. Invert sugar is derived from a type of sugar and is naturally gluten-free. The peppermint oil is extracted from the peppermint plant, and the food coloring, Red 40, is a synthetic dye. The purity of these ingredients, along with the manufacturer's labeling, provides a strong indication of the product's gluten-free status.
The Ferrara Candy Company's Gluten Policy
Brach's is owned by the Ferrara Candy Company, which has a specific policy regarding allergen labeling. The company states that any allergens, including wheat (a gluten source), will be listed in a "CONTAINS" statement directly following the ingredient list on all packages. This means if no such statement is present, the product does not contain allergens. For Brach's soft peppermints, the standard ingredient lists found online and on packaging do not include this warning for wheat or other gluten sources.
This is a significant improvement from the company's past practices. Older forum posts from celiac communities show that in the past, Brach's was known for having a vague or unhelpful stance on gluten-free products, sometimes advising consumers that nothing could be guaranteed safe. The current explicit labeling policy, therefore, offers a much higher degree of certainty for consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Still, it's always prudent to check the packaging of each item you purchase, as formulations can occasionally change.
Cross-Contamination and the Severely Sensitive
While the ingredients are free of gluten, a key concern for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity is cross-contamination. This can occur if a product is manufactured on the same equipment or in the same facility as gluten-containing items. In such cases, even trace amounts of gluten could trigger a reaction.
The Ferrara policy addresses this concern by stating that a "MADE IN" statement will be included on packaging to note any allergens present in the facility where the product is made. The absence of a specific cross-contamination warning related to wheat is a strong positive signal. For maximum safety, look for a certified gluten-free label, which indicates the product has been tested to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. However, based on the readily available information, Brach's soft peppermints are produced with safety in mind.
Comparing Gluten-Free Peppermint Candies
While Brach's offers a reliable gluten-free option, it is helpful to be aware of other similar candies on the market. Here is a comparison of several popular peppermint candies based on their gluten status:
| Candy Brand | Gluten-Free Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brach's Soft Peppermints | ✅ Gluten-Free | Manufacturer (Ferrara) labels as gluten-free and states no "CONTAINS" warning if no allergens present. |
| Red Bird Peppermint Puffs | ✅ Gluten-Free | Explicitly labeled gluten-free by the manufacturer, Piedmont Candy Company, and free of the top 8 allergens. |
| Spangler Starlight Peppermints | ✅ Gluten-Free | Labeled gluten-free and kosher. |
| York Peppermint Patties | ✅ Gluten-Free | Hershey's lists them as gluten-free on their website. |
| See's Candies Candy Canes | ❌ Contains Gluten | Explicitly noted as containing gluten on some product lists. |
| Twizzlers | ❌ Contains Gluten | Main ingredient is wheat flour. |
How to Safely Check for Gluten in Candy
To protect yourself from accidental gluten exposure, especially when manufacturers update recipes or processes, follow these steps:
- Read the label thoroughly: Always check the ingredients list and any allergen statements, even if you have purchased the candy before.
- Look for certification: A "Certified Gluten-Free" logo from a third-party organization is the highest level of assurance.
- Check for "CONTAINS" or "MADE IN" statements: The Ferrara policy is an example of a clear labeling standard for allergens and potential cross-contamination.
- Consult the manufacturer's website: Many companies maintain up-to-date gluten-free product lists online.
- Be cautious with seasonal or novelty items: Sometimes, holiday-themed versions of a product have different ingredients or are made on different lines than the standard version.
Conclusion
For those wondering do Brach's soft peppermints have gluten?, the answer is a reassuring no. Based on the current ingredient list, the explicit labeling as gluten-free on product pages, and the clear allergen policy from the parent company, Ferrara, these candies are safe for most individuals following a gluten-free diet. While the risk of cross-contamination is a valid concern for individuals with celiac disease, the manufacturer's robust labeling system provides a strong basis for confidence. As with any packaged food, the best practice is to always review the latest product label before consumption to ensure it meets your specific dietary needs.
