Does Core Power Have Gluten? A Deep Dive into Fairlife's Protein Shakes
For anyone following a gluten-free diet, checking ingredient lists is a crucial daily task. When it comes to protein shakes like Core Power, understanding the manufacturing process and ingredients is essential for avoiding gluten-related health issues. The good news is that Fairlife, the manufacturer of Core Power, confirms that all of its Core Power products are gluten-free. This holds true across the entire product line, from the standard 26g protein shakes to the higher-protein Elite versions.
The Science Behind Ultra-Filtered Milk
Core Power shakes are made from Fairlife's signature ultra-filtered milk. This unique process separates the milk into its core components and then recombines them in a way that provides a higher concentration of protein and calcium while also removing the lactose. The ingredients used in this process do not contain gluten. The primary components of the shakes are filtered lowfat Grade A milk, which is then blended with other flavorings and supplements that are also free of gluten.
Common ingredients found in Core Power shakes include:
- Ultra-filtered lowfat Grade A milk
- Alkalized cocoa powder (in chocolate varieties)
- Natural flavors
- Monk fruit juice concentrate and Stevia leaf extract (for sweetness)
- Carrageenan, cellulose gel, and cellulose gum (as stabilizers)
- Lactase enzyme (to break down lactose)
- Vitamins A and D3
Notably absent from this list are any wheat, barley, or rye-based ingredients, which are the main sources of gluten. This commitment to a gluten-free formula is a key selling point for Core Power and is a significant factor for those with dietary restrictions.
Certification and Cross-Contamination Concerns
While Core Power is not currently certified by an independent third-party organization like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), its parent company Fairlife, and owner Coca-Cola, explicitly state the product's gluten-free status on their official websites. This declaration is typically based on stringent internal testing and manufacturing protocols to prevent cross-contamination. For those with celiac disease, however, the absence of an official third-party certification may warrant additional caution and due diligence. The company's statement, combined with the inherently gluten-free nature of milk and the shake's other ingredients, provides strong assurance.
How Core Power Compares to Other Protein Shakes
Not all protein shakes are created equal, especially concerning their gluten status. The table below compares Core Power with other popular protein shake options on the market.
| Feature | Core Power | Muscle Milk | Premier Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Status | Yes (Manufacturer Confirmed) | Varies (Some flavors may contain or have risk of cross-contamination; must check labels carefully) | Yes (Typically stated on label) |
| Lactose Status | Lactose-Free (Ultra-filtered) | Lactose-Reduced | Lactose-Free (typically) |
| Protein Source | Ultra-Filtered Milk | Milk Protein Isolate, Calcium Caseinate | Milk Protein Concentrate, Calcium Caseinate |
| Primary Sweetener | Monk Fruit, Stevia, Sucralose | Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium |
| Main Advantage | High-quality protein from ultra-filtered milk | Variety of flavors and types | High protein content, widely available |
| Consideration | Contains artificial sweeteners | Potential gluten cross-contamination | Contains artificial sweeteners, some report a chalky texture |
Making Informed Dietary Choices
For those with celiac disease or a non-celiac gluten sensitivity, reading ingredient labels remains the golden rule. While Core Power's manufacturer states its products are gluten-free, always checking the latest packaging for any changes is a good habit. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires any product labeled “gluten-free” to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, a standard that manufacturers like Fairlife must adhere to. This regulation provides an additional layer of protection for consumers.
For a broader look at gluten-free regulations and standards, the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) website offers valuable insights into what it takes for a product to earn their certification seal and why that might be important for highly sensitive individuals.
Conclusion
In short, the answer to "does Core Power have gluten?" is a definitive no, according to its manufacturer, Fairlife, and parent company, Coca-Cola. All Core Power protein shakes are made with inherently gluten-free ingredients and undergo a manufacturing process designed to prevent gluten contamination. The use of ultra-filtered milk as the primary protein source, combined with other gluten-free flavorings and supplements, makes Core Power a safe choice for those avoiding gluten. While an independent third-party certification is not explicitly advertised, the company's clear labeling and the nature of its ingredients provide strong assurance for most consumers seeking a reliable, high-protein, gluten-free option. For anyone with severe celiac disease, consulting the latest packaging and manufacturer's website for confirmation is always the safest practice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Core Power and Gluten
Q: Is Core Power certified gluten-free? A: While not currently carrying an independent third-party certification seal like GFCO, the manufacturer (Fairlife) and parent company (Coca-Cola) officially state that all Core Power products are gluten-free.
Q: How can I be sure Core Power is gluten-free if it's not certified? A: The manufacturer, Fairlife, explicitly declares the gluten-free status of its Core Power products on its website. This statement, combined with the fact that the primary ingredients (milk, etc.) are inherently gluten-free, provides a high degree of confidence for most consumers.
Q: Do all Core Power flavors have the same gluten-free status? A: Yes, according to the manufacturer, all products across the Core Power line, including the regular and Elite shakes, are gluten-free.
Q: Is Core Power suitable for people with celiac disease? A: Yes, as all Core Power products are manufactured to be gluten-free, they are suitable for individuals with celiac disease. However, those with severe sensitivities may want to check the label for any cross-contamination warnings, though none are typically listed based on the manufacturing process.
Q: What ingredients in Core Power make it gluten-free? A: Core Power is made from naturally gluten-free ingredients like ultra-filtered milk. It does not contain wheat, barley, or rye, which are common sources of gluten.
Q: Are there any hidden gluten ingredients in Core Power? A: No, based on the published ingredient lists and the manufacturer's official statements, there are no hidden gluten ingredients in Core Power shakes.
Q: Is Core Power also lactose-free? A: Yes, thanks to Fairlife's ultra-filtration process and the addition of a lactase enzyme, Core Power protein shakes are also lactose-free.
