The different "Koko" brands and gluten-free status
Many people search for "koko gluten-free" without realizing that multiple companies use the name. The most common are Koko Dairy Free, Koko Black chocolates, Living KoKo chocolates, and Hausa Koko porridge. The gluten-free status depends entirely on the specific brand and product.
Koko Dairy Free: Certified gluten-free and celiac safe
This is a brand known for its coconut-based milk, yogurts, and spreads. For individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, Koko Dairy Free is a reliable and safe choice. Key features include:
- Free from major allergens: Koko Dairy Free products are free from gluten, dairy, soya, and nuts.
- Suitable for celiacs: The products are suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and celiacs.
- Nut-free environment: All products are packed in a nut-free environment.
- Product range: Their gluten-free range includes Original UHT milk, Light UHT milk, spreads, and various coconut yogurts.
Koko Black chocolate: Risk of cross-contamination
Unlike the dairy-free brand, Koko Black is an Australian chocolate company that requires careful scrutiny for gluten-free consumers. While they offer some products labeled "low-gluten," they are not guaranteed to be celiac safe.
- Low-gluten vs. gluten-free: Koko Black's website features a "low-gluten" category, but this designation is not the same as certified gluten-free. It means the products are made with low-gluten ingredients but not in a controlled environment.
- Shared facility warning: The company explicitly states that all their products are handcrafted in an environment that contains nuts, gluten, eggs, dairy, and soy, and therefore contact with these ingredients may occur.
- Not for celiacs: Due to the high risk of cross-contamination, Koko Black chocolates are not safe for people with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
Other "Koko" products
- Living KoKo chocolate: This brand confirms on its FAQ page that its cacao products are gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-safe.
- Koko Deluxe drinking chocolate: This specific product from L'Unico Coffee is confirmed to be gluten-free.
- Kokoh Chocolate: Another company that labels certain chocolates, such as their truffles and dark chocolate bars, as gluten-free.
- Hausa Koko porridge: This traditional West African porridge is naturally gluten-free when made from its primary ingredient, millet.
The importance of verifying gluten-free claims
With the confusion surrounding the different "Koko" brands, verifying the gluten-free claim is paramount. Here's a quick guide to reading labels and ensuring your safety.
How to identify truly gluten-free products
- Check for certification marks: Look for a certification symbol from a recognized organization, such as the Crossed Grain symbol in Europe or the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) in the United States.
- Read the allergen statement: Always check the "Contains" statement and the cross-contamination warning. If a product is made in a shared facility with gluten, it is not celiac safe.
- Look for definitive claims: A product labeled "gluten-free" is generally safer than one labeled "low-gluten" or having no specific claim. However, the certification mark is the gold standard.
- Research the brand: If unsure, research the specific brand and its manufacturing practices. Checking the official company website is the best approach, as seen with Koko Dairy Free.
Comparison of "Koko" product gluten status
| Brand / Product Type | Gluten-Free Status | Cross-Contamination Risk | Suitable for Celiacs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koko Dairy Free | Certified Gluten-Free | No, packed in a nut-free environment. | Yes |
| Koko Black (Chocolate) | Not guaranteed gluten-free (some "low-gluten") | Yes, made in a shared facility. | No |
| Living KoKo (Chocolate) | Confirmed Gluten-Free | Minimal, based on FAQ. | Yes, based on FAQ |
| Kokoh Chocolate | Some products labeled gluten-free | Depends on the specific product. | Check the specific product label. |
| Hausa Koko (Porridge) | Naturally gluten-free (made with millet) | Varies based on preparation. | Yes, if prepared correctly. |
Conclusion: Which Koko can you trust?
In summary, whether a "Koko" product is gluten-free depends entirely on the specific brand and item. Koko Dairy Free is a safe choice for those following a strict gluten-free diet or living with celiac disease, as its products are certified gluten-free and processed in a controlled environment. However, Koko Black chocolates are not suitable for celiacs due to a significant risk of cross-contamination from shared facilities. Always exercise caution and read the label carefully, particularly when it comes to specialty food items. For more general information on safe gluten-free products, you can consult resources like Beyond Celiac.
