Official Confirmation: Bonne Maman's Gluten-Free Status
For those on a gluten-free diet, finding a reliable and delicious chocolate spread is important. Bonne Maman states on their website that all spreads, including the Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, are gluten-free. This status is achieved by ensuring that all ingredients contain less than 20 PPM of gluten. This is the international standard for a gluten-free claim. This certification reassures those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, who must avoid gluten to prevent health issues.
The Importance of Less Than 20 PPM
To be labeled and sold as 'gluten-free' in many countries, including the USA and Canada, the product's gluten content must be below 20 PPM. This low threshold is crucial for those with celiac disease, as even small amounts of gluten can trigger a severe autoimmune response. Bonne Maman meets this standard and maintains a gluten-free production facility, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, and offering consumers peace of mind.
A Closer Look at Ingredients
Examining the ingredient list supports the gluten-free claim. The Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread is made from naturally gluten-free ingredients.
- Sugar
- Hazelnuts
- Vegetable Oils (Sunflower, Rapeseed)
- Skimmed Milk Powder
- Fat Reduced Cocoa Powder
- Cocoa Butter
- Sunflower Lecithin (Emulsifier)
- Natural Vanilla Flavor
This list does not include any wheat, barley, or rye derivatives. While the product does contain hazelnuts and milk, and may contain other tree nuts due to potential shared equipment, it is free from gluten-containing cereals.
Why Ingredients Matter for Gluten-Free Diets
Checking ingredient lists is key for a safe gluten-free diet. A product can be labeled 'gluten-free' even without wheat, but if manufactured in a facility with a high risk of cross-contamination, it may not be safe. Bonne Maman uses gluten-free ingredients and maintains a gluten-free production facility. This provides a double layer of protection for consumers.
Comparison: Bonne Maman vs. Nutella
Both spreads are popular, but their gluten-free status and other attributes differ. Here’s a comparison.
| Feature | Bonne Maman Chocolate Spread | Nutella (U.S. Version) |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten Status | Certified gluten-free (<20 PPM) | No official gluten-free claim or certification on product packaging, though ingredients are typically gluten-free. |
| Cross-Contamination | Produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility | Cannot guarantee production environment is free of gluten cross-contamination risks. |
| Palm Oil | Palm oil free | Contains palm oil. |
| Main Ingredients | Generous amount of hazelnuts | Sugar is the first ingredient, followed by palm oil. |
Note: Nutella ingredients can vary by region. Always check the label for the most accurate information.
How to Enjoy Bonne Maman Chocolate Spread Safely
After confirming Bonne Maman is safe, there are many ways to use it in a gluten-free lifestyle. Here are ideas:
- On gluten-free baked goods: Spread on gluten-free toast, pancakes, waffles, or crepes.
- With fruit: Dip apple slices, strawberries, or bananas into the jar.
- As a baking ingredient: Use it as a filling for gluten-free cakes, brownies, or cookies.
- In smoothies: Add a spoonful to your smoothie.
- Dessert topping: Drizzle over gluten-free ice cream or yogurt.
Conclusion
Is Bonne Maman chocolate spread gluten-free? Yes. The company confirms its gluten-free status, with all products testing below 20 PPM. With a gluten-free production facility, it is a safe choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Unlike competitors that lack certification, Bonne Maman offers a verified product, so you can enjoy it with confidence. Bonne Maman is an excellent choice for a high-quality, palm oil-free, and safe chocolate spread.
For more information, visit the official Bonne Maman USA website and the FAQ section: https://bonnemaman.us/pages/faq.
