Understanding See's Candies Gluten-Free Policy
For anyone following a strict gluten-free diet, such as those with Celiac disease, understanding a company's allergen policy is essential. See's Candies states that most candies made in its own facilities, including the popular Milk Bordeaux, do not contain gluten. While not certified gluten-free, the company maintains internal controls and sources ingredients free of wheat/gluten. It is important to note that See's does sell a small selection of pre-packaged candies from other manufacturers which may be produced in facilities that handle gluten.
The All-Important Bordeaux Ingredients
Examining the ingredients of See's Milk Bordeaux reveals no traditional gluten sources like wheat, barley, or rye. Key ingredients typically include milk chocolate, brown sugar, sugar, cream, butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. The "Chocolate Rice" used is generally a gluten-free product. See's commitment to using ingredients without wheat/gluten in their in-house products is a key part of their allergen management.
Cross-Contamination and Shared Spaces
See's takes steps to minimize cross-contamination risks for customers with sensitivities. In their retail stores, candies made in their facilities, like Bordeaux, are displayed separately from third-party items. Staff are also trained on allergen information. Pre-packaged, externally-sourced items with potential gluten risk are handled separately.
The Nuance of Gluten-Free vs. Certified Gluten-Free
See's does not pursue gluten-free certification for its products. This means their candies are made with gluten-free ingredients and internal controls are in place to minimize cross-contamination, but they haven't undergone the formal certification process. This approach is often acceptable for many with gluten sensitivity, but those with extreme sensitivities might prefer certified products.
See's Candies Gluten Profile Comparison
| Feature | See's In-House Candies (e.g., Bordeaux) | Third-Party See's Candies | Homemade Gluten-Free Desserts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source of Gluten | No gluten ingredients used. | Manufactured in facilities that may process gluten-containing products. | Requires strict attention to all ingredients to ensure no gluten is present. |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Extremely low due to dedicated facilities and separate retail handling. | Possible, though low due to pre-packaging. | Dependent on the cook's practices and ingredient sourcing. |
| Certification | Not certified gluten-free. | Uncertified; relies on external manufacturer information. | Typically uncertified unless specifically pursued. |
| Safety Level for Celiac | Very high due to strict in-house protocols and ingredient sourcing. | High, but some Celiacs might avoid due to shared facility risk. | Can be very high if proper procedures are followed. |
Making an Informed Choice
For most individuals with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, enjoying a See's Milk Bordeaux from the main counter is likely safe. However, for those with high sensitivity, it's wise to consult See's directly for the most current allergen details. Reviewing product packaging in-store is also recommended. Remember that while candy can be a treat, a balanced diet is crucial for overall health.
Conclusion
Based on See's policies and ingredient information, their Milk Bordeaux is made without gluten-containing ingredients in dedicated facilities, making it a safe choice for many on a gluten-free diet. See's also takes measures to minimize cross-contamination in their stores. However, those with severe Celiac disease should be aware that See's is not certified gluten-free and some external products sold may pose a risk. Always seeking the latest information from See's is the most prudent approach.
