MadeGood's Gluten-Free Certifications
MadeGood has earned the trust of many in the celiac community through its strict adherence to gluten-free standards. All MadeGood products are certified gluten-free by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GFCO), a recognized third-party organization. This certification means that the finished products contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the standard set by the FDA and considered safe for most people with celiac disease. However, their commitment goes beyond simply testing the finished product.
Purity Protocol Oats: The Gold Standard for Celiacs
One of the most critical factors for celiacs evaluating MadeGood's products is their use of Purity Protocol oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but a significant problem arises from cross-contamination that often occurs when they are grown, harvested, or processed near wheat, barley, or rye. Standard gluten-free oats may still carry some risk of contamination.
Purity Protocol is a rigorous system that ensures the oats are never exposed to gluten-containing grains at any stage—from seed selection and harvesting to milling and manufacturing. This minimizes the risk of cross-contact far more effectively than standard practices. For those with celiac disease, especially those with high sensitivity, this detail is a game-changer and a cornerstone of MadeGood's promise.
Dedicated Allergen-Free Manufacturing
Cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities is a major concern for celiac consumers. MadeGood addresses this directly by producing its snacks in a dedicated facility that is free from the most common allergens. This includes not just gluten, but also:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Dairy
- Egg
- Soy
- Sesame
- Fish
- Shellfish
By prohibiting these ingredients from ever entering their facilities, MadeGood eliminates the risk of cross-contact that can occur when a shared production line is used for both allergen and non-allergen-containing products, even with thorough cleaning protocols. This provides an additional layer of security for celiac consumers and those with multiple allergies.
Evaluating Recent Non-Gluten Recalls
While MadeGood has a strong record on gluten-free safety, it's important for consumers to be aware of other potential issues. In late 2024 and early 2025, Riverside Natural Foods (the parent company of MadeGood) issued a voluntary recall of specific granola bar products due to potential metal contamination. The contamination was reportedly from a small, flat brush bristle used in the manufacturing process.
What this means for celiac consumers:
- Not a gluten issue: The recall was explicitly for potential metal fragments, not gluten. It does not reflect a failure in MadeGood's gluten-free protocol.
- Trust and vigilance: It does, however, highlight that even with strict procedures, manufacturing issues can arise. This is a reminder that constant consumer vigilance is required, even for brands known for safety.
- Impact on perception: For some, any recall can shake confidence in a brand's overall manufacturing quality. Celiacs should assess this information based on their own risk tolerance and commitment to staying informed about product safety announcements.
Comparison Table: MadeGood vs. Conventional Gluten-Free Brand
| Feature | MadeGood | Typical 'Gluten-Free' Brand | Potential Risk for Celiacs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten Certification | Certified Gluten-Free by GFCO | May or may not have 3rd-party certification | Lower risk with certification, but not all certifications are equal. |
| Oats Source | Uses Purity Protocol Oats | May use standard GF oats, susceptible to cross-contamination | Standard oats are high-risk for cross-contamination. |
| Manufacturing Facility | Dedicated allergen-free facility | Often uses shared lines with other products, relying on cleaning protocols | Risk of cross-contact with gluten from shared equipment. |
| Recent Recalls | Metal contamination recall (late 2024/early 2025) | Varies by brand; may or may not have had recalls | Non-gluten recalls can impact overall trust in manufacturing quality. |
Conclusion: Safe for Most, but Know Your Risk
MadeGood’s commitment to celiac safety, backed by GFCO certification, Purity Protocol oats, and a dedicated allergen-free facility, makes their products a highly reliable choice for many individuals with celiac disease. The brand's proactive approach to cross-contamination risk, particularly with oats, sets it apart from many competitors. However, the recent non-gluten recall serves as a valuable reminder that no manufacturing process is completely infallible. For a small number of celiacs with extreme sensitivity to the avenin protein found in oats, even Purity Protocol oats could potentially cause issues, though this is rare. Consumers should always check product packaging for the official GFCO certification and remain informed about any recall notices from the company. The ultimate decision depends on an individual’s specific health needs and comfort level with the brand's overall manufacturing record.
Learn more about managing your celiac disease with expert dietary advice from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) on their official website.
