Do Icy Poles Contain Gluten? A Comprehensive Guide

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

While many plain icy poles consist of naturally gluten-free ingredients like water, sugar, and fruit flavours, it's a common mistake to assume all varieties are safe. The simple answer to whether icy poles contain gluten is: it depends on the brand, flavour, and production process, making careful label-reading essential for individuals with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

The gluten content of icy poles varies by manufacturer, ingredients, and processing methods. Key factors include added mix-ins like biscuit pieces, flavourings containing barley malt, and the risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing. Always check product labels and look for gluten-free certification to ensure a safe treat.

Key Points

Ingredient Scrutiny: Not all icy poles are gluten-free; check for hidden gluten in flavourings or thickeners like barley malt or modified food starch.
Cross-Contamination Risk: Shared factory equipment can contaminate naturally gluten-free ingredients, posing a risk for coeliacs.
Look for Certifications: For the highest safety, choose products clearly labelled with a certified gluten-free mark, as ingredient formulations can change.
Homemade is Safest: Make your own icy poles at home to have complete control over all ingredients and eliminate any risk of cross-contamination.
Know Brand Options: Several brands, like Peters, Bulla, and Calippo, offer reliably gluten-free icy pole varieties.
Ask When Dining Out: In ice cream shops, always ask staff about gluten-free flavours, dedicated scoops, and cross-contact procedures.

The Core Ingredients: Why Most Simple Icy Poles Are Gluten-Free

At their most basic, icy poles, also known as ice lollies or popsicles, are created from water, sugar, and flavourings. These core components are naturally free from gluten. As long as no gluten-containing additives or flavourings are introduced, a simple fruit or lemonade icy pole is likely to be safe for someone on a gluten-free diet. However, this is not a guarantee and vigilance is always required.

What to Look for on the Label

Beyond the primary ingredients, it's crucial to examine the full ingredient list for potential hidden sources of gluten. Here are some key red flags to watch for:

Barley Malt: Used as a flavouring or sweetener in some frozen treats, barley contains gluten.
Modified Food Starch: This can sometimes be derived from wheat. Reputable gluten-free products will specify the source, such as corn or potato.
Wheat, Rye, and Barley: Any product explicitly listing these grains should be avoided.
'May Contain' Warnings: This signifies a high risk of cross-contamination from shared manufacturing equipment, making the product unsafe for coeliacs.

Cross-Contamination: The Hidden Risk

Even if an icy pole's ingredient list looks clean, the manufacturing environment poses a significant risk for coeliacs. If a factory produces both gluten-containing products and seemingly gluten-free icy poles on shared equipment, cross-contamination can occur. This can happen during mixing, filling, or packaging. For this reason, relying on a product specifically certified as gluten-free is the safest approach. Many manufacturers will state their allergen protocols on their website or packaging.

Brand Spotlights: What the Companies Say

Several major frozen treat brands offer gluten-free icy pole options and are transparent about their manufacturing processes. For example, Peters Ice Cream confirms it has gluten-free products in its Icy Pole and Proud & Punch ranges. Similarly, Bulla and Calippo also offer several gluten-free icy pops and lollies, often clearly labelled. In the UK, some brands like Mr Freeze have tested their products to be below the 20 parts per million (PPM) threshold for gluten, but caution is still needed, especially with products containing barley malt.

The DIY Advantage: Making Your Own Gluten-Free Icy Poles

For ultimate peace of mind, making your own icy poles at home is the best option. This allows you to control every single ingredient, eliminating any risk of cross-contamination. Homemade icy poles can be made with a variety of healthy, natural ingredients, such as blended fruits, fruit juices, or even creamy bases using dairy-free alternatives.

Comparison Table: Store-Bought vs. Homemade Icy Poles


Feature	Store-Bought Icy Poles	Homemade Icy Poles
Gluten Risk	High potential for cross-contamination or hidden gluten, requires careful label-checking.	Zero risk of cross-contamination if made with gluten-free ingredients.
Ingredient Control	Limited control; relies on manufacturer's accuracy and processes.	Full control over all ingredients, including sugar and artificial colours.
Convenience	Readily available and easy to grab from the freezer section.	Requires preparation time for blending, freezing, and setting.
Cost	Generally low, but specific gluten-free certified brands may be more expensive.	Cost depends on ingredients used, can be more economical in bulk.
Customization	Very limited flavour options.	Endless possibilities for flavour combinations and nutritional content.
Certifications	Look for Certified Gluten-Free labels for safety reassurance.	Naturally certified 'safe' by your own knowledge and control of ingredients.

Navigating the Supermarket and Beyond

When shopping for frozen treats, the single most important action is to read the packaging thoroughly every time you purchase. Ingredients and formulations can change without notice. When in doubt, search for products with a recognized gluten-free certification mark. For eating out at ice cream or gelato shops, the risk of cross-contact is even higher. Always inquire about dedicated scoops and separate handling procedures to avoid contamination from cones or other gluten-containing items.

Conclusion: Caution is Key for Gluten-Free Dieters

Do icy poles contain gluten? While many simple, water-based icy poles are naturally gluten-free, it is never safe to assume. The risk of hidden gluten in additives, flavourings like barley malt, or cross-contamination during manufacturing is very real and dangerous for coeliacs. For the safest option, choose a brand with a reliable gluten-free certification, read every label, or make your own icy poles from scratch. By staying informed and vigilant, you can enjoy a cool, refreshing treat without compromising your health.

For more detailed guidance on living gluten-free, resources such as Beyond Celiac offer valuable information on dietary navigation and safe practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many icy poles are safe for people with coeliac disease, but only if they are certified gluten-free. Some flavours or manufacturing processes can introduce gluten, so always check the product label carefully.

Barley malt is a flavouring or sweetener derived from barley, which is a gluten-containing grain. Any product containing barley malt is not safe for individuals with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Yes, cross-contamination is a significant risk if the icy poles are produced in a factory that also handles gluten-containing ingredients. Shared equipment can transfer trace amounts of gluten, which is a danger for coeliacs.

The most reliable way is to look for a certified gluten-free label on the packaging. Additionally, read the ingredient list for any mention of wheat, barley, rye, or other hidden sources of gluten.

No. While the fruit juice itself is gluten-free, the icy pole can contain other additives or flavourings that may contain gluten. Always check the full ingredient list to be sure.

Making your own icy poles ensures that you have complete control over every ingredient used. This eliminates any risk of hidden gluten or cross-contamination from a manufacturing facility.

Yes, several brands are transparent about their gluten-free options. Examples include Peters Icy Pole, Bulla Icy Pops, and Calippo. Look for their gluten-free markings and check their websites for more information.