The Recent Change to Freddo's Allergen Labelling
For years, those following a gluten-free diet had to avoid Cadbury Freddo bars due to the risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing. This was particularly frustrating for many, as the ingredients themselves do not contain gluten. In a welcome development reported in mid-2025, Cadbury confirmed it was removing the 'may contain gluten' warning from its standard milk chocolate Freddo products. This means that new stock of plain Freddos is considered safe for individuals with coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity.
The change was a result of manufacturing adjustments, making the production process safer for those with gluten allergies. This follows a trend of other Cadbury products, such as Twirl, Flake, and Crunchie, which have been considered gluten-free for some time. However, it is vital to note that this update does not apply to all Freddo products, and a transition period for old stock means extra care is needed when purchasing.
Are All Freddo Products Now Gluten-Free?
No, the gluten-free status depends on the specific Freddo variety and its regional origin. The latest update confirming safety primarily applies to the plain milk chocolate Freddo bar sold in the UK, but caution is still required.
Freddo vs. Caramel Freddo
- Plain Freddo: As of mid-2025, new stock of the standard milk chocolate Freddo bar is no longer labelled with a 'may contain gluten' warning and is considered safe for coeliacs.
- Caramel Freddo: Unfortunately, the caramel version of the Freddo still retains the 'may contain gluten' warning. Due to the different manufacturing processes or ingredients, it remains a risk for those with gluten sensitivities.
Other Freddo Products and Regional Variations
- Freddo Faces: Often sold in Easter eggs or small treat bags, Freddo Faces have historically been gluten-free and have not carried the 'may contain' warning. This makes them a more reliable option if you can find them.
- Freddo Gelato (US): A completely different product from the chocolate bar, Freddo Gelato in the USA has its own FAQ confirming its prepackaged products are gluten-free. This highlights the importance of checking the manufacturer for each specific product.
- Australian Freddo Frog: In Australia, some Freddo products may still contain a 'may contain wheat' warning. This demonstrates that labelling can differ significantly depending on the country. Always check the packaging relevant to your region.
A Crucial Warning on Old Stock and Multipacks
Because the labelling change is relatively recent, there is a risk of old, non-compliant stock still being sold alongside the new, safe version. This is especially true for multipacks, where the outer packaging might not be fully accurate. As explained by Coeliac Sanctuary, the new production lines mean multipacks without the 'may contain' warning on the OUTER packet are likely safe, but individual wrappers must be checked for confirmation. For absolute safety, it is recommended to buy individual bars and scrutinise the ingredients list.
Here are some key tips for ensuring you pick up the right product:
- Check the Wrapper: Do not trust your memory. Always read the allergen information on the specific bar's packaging before consuming it.
- Avoid Multipacks: Until older stock has completely rotated out of stores, multipacks carry a higher risk of containing mixed stock with differing warnings. To be safe, avoid them unless you can check every single bar.
- Look for 'Free From' Symbols: Keep an eye out for any official 'gluten-free' certification symbols on the packaging, though the absence of a 'may contain' statement is the primary indicator of the new stock.
- Know the Variety: Remember that only the plain milk chocolate Freddo is included in this update. Always assume caramel and other variations contain gluten unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Comparison of Freddo and Other Cadbury Products
| Product | Type | Latest Gluten-Free Status |
|---|---|---|
| Plain Freddo | Bar | Now considered safe (new stock only; check label) |
| Caramel Freddo | Bar | Not gluten-free (still 'may contain' warning) |
| Freddo Faces | Treats | Gluten-free (historically safe) |
| Freddo (Australia) | Bar | May contain wheat (regional difference; check label) |
| Twirl | Bar | Gluten-free |
| Flake | Bar | Gluten-free |
| Crunchie | Bar | Gluten-free |
| Dairy Milk | Bar | May contain gluten (standard bar) |
What to Do If You Are Still Unsure
If you are ever in doubt, the safest course of action is to avoid the product entirely or contact the manufacturer directly for clarification. For coeliacs, even a small amount of cross-contamination can cause a reaction. Consulting reliable sources like Coeliac UK or dedicated gluten-free blogs can provide further peace of mind regarding the stock status and any additional updates. A great resource for coeliac-specific information is the blog post from Coeliac Sanctuary which first reported on the change.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Freddo
Yes, the latest news is positive for those on a gluten-free diet: plain milk chocolate Freddos from new stock are now considered safe. However, this is not a universal pass for all Freddo products. Consumers must remain vigilant by checking the specific packaging for the 'may contain gluten' warning, especially when buying multipacks or flavoured varieties like caramel. While a beloved childhood treat is becoming accessible again for many, caution is still the key to safe snacking.
