Is Marshmallow Candy Gluten-Free? A Comprehensive Guide

November 9, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 3 million people in the United States follow a gluten-free diet, and one of their most common questions concerns candy, including marshmallows. While most marshmallows are made with naturally gluten-free ingredients, the answer to "Is marshmallow candy gluten-free?" is more complex, requiring attention to brands and potential cross-contamination.

Quick Summary

This guide examines the ingredients and manufacturing processes of popular brands to determine if marshmallow candy is gluten-free. It provides clear steps for checking labels, highlights the risk of cross-contamination, and lists safe, certified options for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Key Points

Ingredient Purity: Most traditional marshmallows are naturally gluten-free, made from sugar, water, and gelatin.
Labeling Matters: For celiac disease or high sensitivity, look for products with a certified 'gluten-free' label to avoid risk.
Hidden Risks: Some marshmallows may contain gluten from less obvious sources, like wheat-based starches or flavors.
Cross-Contamination: Even without gluten ingredients, cross-contamination is a risk if marshmallows are made in a facility that also processes gluten.
Safe Brands: Brands like Campfire and Dandies are generally considered safe options, with some being certified and vegan.
Check Specialty Items: Flavored marshmallows or special edition products like Peeps require individual label checks, as their gluten status can vary.
Vegan Options: Vegan marshmallows are often an excellent gluten-free choice, as they avoid gelatin and typically focus on allergen-friendly ingredients.

Understanding Marshmallow Ingredients

Traditional marshmallows are a simple confection primarily made from sugar, water, and gelatin. The standard ingredients themselves do not contain gluten. The concern for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease arises from other ingredients, such as starches, flavors, and potential manufacturing processes. Most marshmallows use cornstarch as an anti-sticking agent, which is naturally gluten-free. However, some brands, especially those from outside the U.S., might use wheat-derived starches or glucose syrups, which contain gluten.

The Importance of Reading the Label

For those on a strict gluten-free diet, relying on the “naturally gluten-free” status of basic ingredients is not enough. The key to ensuring a product is safe is to read the ingredient list and look for a certified gluten-free label. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines "gluten-free" as containing less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Many manufacturers voluntarily test their products to meet this standard and display the label prominently.

Cross-Contamination Concerns

One of the biggest risks for individuals with celiac disease is cross-contamination. This occurs when a product that is inherently gluten-free comes into contact with gluten during the manufacturing process. While major manufacturers like Kraft and Doumak (the maker of Campfire marshmallows) state their products do not contain gluten ingredients, they do not always carry a certified label. This is because they might be produced in facilities that also handle gluten-containing products, posing a small but significant risk for highly sensitive individuals.

Comparison of Marshmallow Brands

Here is a comparison of popular marshmallow brands, highlighting their gluten-free status and other key considerations:


Brand	Gluten-Free Status	Key Considerations
Kraft Jet-Puffed	Gluten-Free Ingredients	Not certified gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination. Generally safe for those with mild sensitivity, but celiacs should exercise caution.
Campfire Marshmallows	Certified Gluten-Free	Produced by Doumak, which makes only gluten-free marshmallows. A very safe option.
Dandies Marshmallows	Certified Gluten-Free & Vegan	A plant-based alternative made without gelatin. Safe for both gluten-free and vegan diets.
Trader Joe's	Certified Gluten-Free	The store's house brand is labeled gluten-free, with some varieties also being vegan.
Peeps	Varies by Product	Some seasonal Peeps are gluten-free, but others may not be. Always check the label for the specific flavor.

Finding Safe Marshmallow Candy

If you have celiac disease or a high sensitivity to gluten, follow these steps to find safe marshmallows:

Look for a Certified Label: The most reliable way to ensure a marshmallow is gluten-free is to find a bag with a certified gluten-free seal, such as those from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
Check the Ingredient List Carefully: If no certification is present, scan the ingredient list for common gluten sources like wheat starch, modified food starch (unless explicitly stated as derived from corn or another gluten-free source), and malt.
Research the Manufacturer: Brands like Dandies and Doumak (Campfire) are known for producing exclusively gluten-free marshmallows. A quick search can confirm a manufacturer's stance on gluten and cross-contamination policies.
Consider Specialty Retailers: Health food stores and online retailers specializing in allergen-friendly products, like Exo Marshmallow or Happy Tummies, often carry a curated selection of gluten-free marshmallows.

The Rise of Vegan and Specialty Marshmallows

The market for allergen-friendly marshmallows has expanded significantly, driven by consumer demand for healthier and specialized products. Many vegan marshmallows, like Dandies, use ingredients such as tapioca syrup and soy protein instead of gelatin, providing a delicious and safe option for those with both gluten and animal product sensitivities. These products are typically certified and made in dedicated facilities, offering an extra layer of assurance for those with severe allergies.

Conclusion

In summary, while many marshmallows are naturally made from gluten-free ingredients, not all marshmallow candy is guaranteed to be safe for a gluten-free diet due to the risk of hidden ingredients and cross-contamination. For those with celiac disease or high sensitivity, the safest route is to choose brands that are explicitly labeled and certified gluten-free, such as Campfire or Dandies. Always make a habit of reading product labels thoroughly, especially for flavored or specialty varieties, to ensure a sweet and safe treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallows are made without gluten ingredients, but they are not certified gluten-free due to the potential for cross-contamination in the manufacturing facility. Individuals with severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should be cautious.

Yes, Campfire marshmallows are produced by Doumak, a company that manufactures only gluten-free marshmallows, making them a safe choice for those on a strict gluten-free diet.

The gluten status of mini marshmallows depends on the brand, just like their larger counterparts. Many popular U.S. brands, such as Great Value (Walmart) and Elyon, offer gluten-free mini marshmallows.

Yes, but they must choose certified gluten-free marshmallows to avoid cross-contamination risks. While many conventional marshmallows may not contain gluten ingredients, the manufacturing process can be a concern for celiacs.

The main concerns are the use of wheat-derived ingredients like starch or glucose syrup in some foreign brands, and the risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing in facilities that also process gluten-containing foods.

Many vegan marshmallow brands, such as Dandies, are also gluten-free. They are made with plant-based ingredients and are often manufactured in dedicated facilities to ensure they are free from common allergens.

To confirm a brand is certified gluten-free, look for a prominent logo on the packaging from a third-party certifier like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Otherwise, check the manufacturer's website for their official gluten-free statement.