What Is The Coconut Collab?
Born from a desire to create delicious, plant-based alternatives to dairy, The Coconut Collab (formerly The Coconut Collaborative) has established itself as a popular choice for creamy coconut-based products. The brand offers a range of dairy-free yoghurts, desserts, custards, and milk alternatives, all made from ethically sourced coconuts. The company's focus on natural ingredients, like using coconut water for natural sweetness, means they avoid many additives found in other products. For those with dietary restrictions, particularly coeliac disease or a gluten sensitivity, understanding the brand's allergen handling is crucial. The simple fact is that while most products are indeed gluten-free, there is a key exception to be aware of.
The Verdict: Most Products Are Gluten-Free
For the vast majority of products from The Coconut Collab, the answer to the gluten-free question is a resounding yes. This includes their range of plain, flavoured, and 'Gut Health' coconut yoghurts, which are naturally free from gluten. These items are a safe and delicious option for people avoiding gluten, as confirmed on the company's website and on individual product listings from retailers like Waitrose and Tesco. The basic recipes typically contain coconut milk, coconut water, and live cultures, relying on naturally gluten-free thickeners like cornflour and pectin. Many of their other desserts and custards also follow this gluten-free approach.
The Notable Exception: The Coconut Yoghurt & Granola Pot
While the company is generally a great resource for gluten-free diets, there is one product that must be avoided. The Coconut Collab explicitly states that "The only product we make that contains gluten is our Coconut yoghurt & granola pot". This product is an excellent example of why checking the label is essential, even with brands known for offering many allergen-friendly options. The added granola contains oats or other grains that are not processed to be gluten-free, making it unsuitable for anyone with a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. This single exception demonstrates that assuming all products from a mostly-safe brand are fine is a mistake.
Understanding Manufacturing Processes and Cross-Contamination
For individuals with coeliac disease, cross-contamination is a serious concern, as even trace amounts of gluten can cause a reaction. The Coconut Collab's manufacturing practices provide important context here. According to their FAQ, while most of their products are made in sites dedicated to dairy-free production, other allergens are handled in some facilities. For instance, older product information notes that facilities processing yoghurts also handle dairy and gluten, and dessert facilities handle dairy, gluten, soya, almonds, and hazelnuts. However, the company asserts it has "strict segregation, cleaning and validation procedures in place to ensure there is no allergen cross contamination". For absolute certainty, those with severe sensitivities should always read the specific product label's allergen warning, which should indicate if a product is produced in a facility that also handles gluten.
How to Verify Gluten-Free Status
Check the Allergen Information
- Read the label: The most reliable source of information is the product packaging itself. Look for a "gluten-free" certification symbol or explicit allergen information.
- Look for warnings: Check for phrases like "packed in a factory that handles…" to understand potential cross-contamination risks.
- Ingredient list: A quick scan of the ingredient list for wheat, barley, or rye can provide a first line of defence, but not all gluten sources are obvious.
A Comparison of Gluten Status by Product
| Product Category | Gluten-Free? | Notes and Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Yoghurt | Yes | All-natural ingredients, including coconut milk and water, are gluten-free. |
| Flavoured Yoghurt | Yes | Fruit compotes are typically gluten-free, but always verify the specific flavour. |
| Granola & Yog Pot | No | Contains granola, which has gluten. This is the one to avoid for gluten-free diets. |
| Desserts & Custard | Yes | Generally made with coconut cream and water. Factory handles other allergens, including gluten for desserts. |
| Protein Yoghurt | Yes | Contains almonds and soy but is gluten-free. |
| Milk Alternative | Yes | Marketed as gluten-free and suitable for dairy-free diets. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Coconut Collab has created a wide array of delicious plant-based products, with the vast majority being entirely gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease. The key takeaway is to always check the label, especially with the brand's popular on-the-go items. The Coconut Yoghurt & Granola pot is the single, clear exception to the rule and must be avoided by those adhering to a gluten-free diet. For all other product lines, including their natural yoghurts, protein yoghurts, and desserts, you can safely enjoy them after a quick label check to confirm. The company's commitment to transparency with its allergen warnings and production standards allows consumers to make informed choices.
For more information on their product range and allergen statements, you can visit their official website: coconutco.co.uk
