The Distinction Between Walkers Crisps and Shortbread
One of the most common points of confusion for individuals following a gluten-free diet is the difference in allergen information between Walkers crisps (a PepsiCo brand in the UK) and Walkers Shortbread (a separate, family-owned Scottish bakery). While both share the name "Walkers," their manufacturing processes and ingredients are entirely different, leading to conflicting guidance regarding gluten content. The snack food division explicitly states their crisps are not gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination, whereas the shortbread manufacturer produces a dedicated, certified gluten-free line.
Why Walkers Crisps Are Not Gluten-Free
Despite being made primarily from potatoes, which are naturally gluten-free, Walkers crisps are unsafe for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivities. The primary reason is the risk of cross-contamination during production. The factory uses equipment that also handles gluten-containing ingredients. Some flavorings, for example, may contain ingredients with gluten, or even if the ingredients themselves are technically gluten-free, the processing environment is not. This led Coeliac UK to advise against their consumption and for Walkers to remove its 'suitable for coeliacs' label in the past. A "may contain gluten" warning is typically found on the packaging to alert consumers to this risk.
Certified Walkers Gluten-Free Shortbread
In contrast to the crisp division, Walkers Shortbread has invested in a dedicated production process to create a certified gluten-free shortbread range. This line is baked with a proprietary flour blend of rice, maize, and potato starch, substituting traditional wheat flour.
The gluten-free shortbread is certified by the UK Coeliac Society and bears the recognizable Crossed Grain symbol, ensuring it meets strict criteria of less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Each batch is tested to confirm its compliance with safety standards for coeliacs. The company offers several flavors in its gluten-free range, including rounds, chocolate chip, and ginger and lemon varieties, all designed to deliver the classic, buttery taste without the gluten.
Comparison: Walkers Crisps vs. Walkers Shortbread
| Feature | Walkers Crisps | Walkers Shortbread (Gluten-Free Range) |
|---|---|---|
| Suitability for Coeliacs | Unsuitable | Suitable and Certified |
| Manufacturing Process | Shared facilities with gluten-containing products. | Dedicated facility and tested batches for gluten-free products. |
| Gluten Warning | Typically includes a "may contain gluten" advisory. | Clearly labeled with the Crossed Grain symbol and 'Gluten Free'. |
| Core Ingredients | Potatoes, vegetable oils, seasonings (some containing gluten). | Rice, maize, and potato starch blend, butter, and sugar. |
| Product Example | Ready Salted, Cheese & Onion. | Gluten-Free Shortbread Rounds, Chocolate Chip Shortbread. |
Navigating the Two Product Lines
For those with coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, it is essential to treat these two product lines as entirely separate entities. Never assume a product is safe based on the brand name alone. Always check the packaging. Look for the Coeliac UK Crossed Grain symbol on Walkers Shortbread products to confirm their safety. For Walkers crisps, the presence of a "may contain" warning or the absence of a certified gluten-free claim is a clear signal to avoid them.
Understanding Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination is a serious issue for coeliacs, and it is the primary reason why Walkers crisps are not considered safe. Even trace amounts of gluten, often invisible to the naked eye, can cause a severe reaction in people with coeliac disease. Walkers' admission that their crisp factory handles gluten is sufficient reason for coeliacs to steer clear. In contrast, the robust certification process for Walkers Shortbread products, which includes regular testing, provides a reliable guarantee of safety.
The Importance of Reading Labels
Ingredient lists and allergen warnings are your most critical tools when managing a gluten-free diet. The differences between Walkers crisps and shortbread highlight the importance of not generalizing. What applies to one product line from a brand does not necessarily apply to another, even if the names are similar. Always confirm the specific product's status, as brands' offerings can vary significantly in their manufacturing processes and allergen controls.
Conclusion
The answer to the question "Is Walkers gluten-free?" depends entirely on the specific product. Walkers crisps are not gluten-free and are unsafe for coeliacs due to cross-contamination risks during production. Conversely, Walkers Shortbread offers a certified gluten-free range, which is safe for coeliacs and features the internationally recognized Crossed Grain symbol. Always check the label and rely on third-party certifications, not just the brand name, to ensure a product meets your dietary needs.
Resources
For more information on coeliac disease and managing a gluten-free diet, please visit Coeliac UK's website.
Summary
So, while standard Walkers crisps should be avoided, their certified gluten-free shortbread line provides a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease.
