What is Werther's Original Made Of?
Werther's Original butterscotch candies are known for their distinctively creamy flavor, which comes from high-quality ingredients like real butter and fresh cream. However, the ingredient list is what matters most for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The main ingredients typically include sugar, glucose syrup, cream, condensed whey, and butter. For many consumers, the key point of investigation is the source of the glucose syrup.
According to the official U.S. Werther's Original website, the glucose syrup is listed as being derived from 'wheat or corn'. While the manufacturer notes that the final product meets FDA guidelines for gluten-free content (less than 20 ppm), they also state they have chosen not to label the products as 'gluten-free'. This cautious approach is a significant detail for consumers who need to strictly avoid gluten. The source of the glucose syrup can vary by country and specific product line, so diligent label-reading is essential.
The Role of Glucose Syrup in Gluten-Free Labeling
The inclusion of glucose syrup derived from wheat is a common point of confusion. According to many international and national celiac societies, including the UK's Coeliac Society, glucose syrup sourced from wheat is generally considered safe for inclusion in a gluten-free diet. This is because the manufacturing process of glucose syrup is highly refined, effectively removing gluten proteins. Despite this, some individuals with extreme gluten sensitivity or a history of reactions to supposedly safe products may prefer to avoid it entirely.
Storck, the company behind Werther's, has provided varied statements over the years regarding the gluten content of their products. An older statement from 2007, for instance, advised caution, recommending only products confirmed to be 100% gluten-free. More recent FAQ pages reflect the FDA standard but still maintain the no-label policy. This inconsistency highlights the need for constant vigilance and checking current packaging, as ingredients and manufacturing practices can change over time.
Comparison of Werther's Original and Other Candies
| Candy Brand | Gluten-Free Status | Key Ingredient Details | Suitable for Celiacs? | Manufacturer Stance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Werther's Original Hard Candies (US) | Meets FDA Standard (No Label) | Glucose Syrup (from wheat or corn), potential cross-contamination | Use Caution | Advises caution, does not label as 'gluten-free' |
| Werther's Original Sugar-Free (UK) | Labeled Gluten-Free | Uses glucose syrup, manufacturer specifies 'gluten-free' on Amazon | Generally Safe (Check Label) | Marketed and labeled as gluten-free in some markets |
| Butterscotch Chips (Generic) | Not Always Gluten-Free | Some brands may contain barley malt, which contains gluten | Not Recommended | Varies by brand; must read label carefully |
| Brach's Butterscotch Candy | Not Verified | May be processed in a facility that handles gluten; company provides no guarantee | Use Caution | Will not verify manufacturing facility status |
Understanding the Risks and Labels
Cross-Contamination Concerns
Another major consideration for celiac patients is the risk of cross-contamination. This can occur when gluten-free products are processed on the same equipment or in the same facility as products containing gluten. Werther's UK site, for example, states its butterscotch sweets are packed in a facility that handles products containing gluten. This is a critical piece of information for anyone with a severe allergy or celiac disease, as even trace amounts can trigger a reaction. While the US site emphasizes its compliance with FDA standards (below 20 ppm), this does not negate the risk for highly sensitive individuals.
Importance of Reading the Label
Given the different formulations and manufacturing locations, the responsibility ultimately falls on the consumer to verify the gluten-free status of their candy. An Amazon UK listing for Werther's sugar-free butter candies explicitly states they are 'Gluten-Free & Vegetarian'. This differs from the U.S. company's more cautious wording. The best practice is to always check the most current and specific ingredient list on the physical packaging of the product you intend to purchase. Products labeled specifically with a gluten-free certification mark, such as from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), offer the highest level of assurance.
Conclusion: Navigating Werther's for a Gluten-Free Diet
While the original butterscotch candies from Werther's meet the technical FDA standard for gluten-free status in the US, the manufacturer's refusal to label them as such, combined with the presence of wheat-derived glucose syrup and potential cross-contamination, means they are not a safe choice for all individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities. Sugar-free versions in certain international markets may be different, but a careful review of the packaging for the specific region is always necessary. For those who require absolute gluten avoidance, seeking a product with a third-party gluten-free certification is the safest option. The ultimate determination rests with the individual's comfort level and sensitivity to potential trace gluten.
For more information on living with celiac disease and understanding food labels, visit the Celiac Disease Foundation: https://celiac.org/.
Summary of Key Takeaways
- Manufacturer's Position: While meeting FDA guidelines, Werther's Original butterscotch is not labeled as 'gluten-free' in the US due to potential gluten sources and cross-contamination.
- Glucose Syrup Source: The glucose syrup in US Werther's is derived from wheat or corn, which, while highly processed, may be a concern for some with celiac disease.
- Check Different Markets: Some international versions, like certain Werther's Original sugar-free products in the UK, are specifically marketed and labeled as gluten-free.
- Cross-Contamination Risk: The potential for gluten exposure during manufacturing, even for low-gluten products, remains a risk for highly sensitive individuals.
- Read the Label: Always consult the most current and specific product packaging, as ingredients and labeling practices can vary and change.
- Seek Third-Party Certification: For maximum safety, celiac patients should choose products with verifiable third-party gluten-free certification marks.
- Individual Tolerance: The decision to consume Werther's Original depends on the individual's personal risk tolerance and level of gluten sensitivity.
How the Information was Gathered
Information for this article was compiled through a Google search using the query 'Is Werther's Original Butterscotch Gluten-Free?'. Key facts were drawn from the official Werther's Original FAQ page, ingredient lists from their US and UK websites, and third-party celiac forums. Details regarding glucose syrup processing and cross-contamination risks were sourced from reliable food and allergy information sites. Finally, market-specific variations in labeling were cross-referenced using online product listings.
Final Conclusion
For individuals following a strict gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or a severe sensitivity, Werther's Original butterscotch should be treated with caution. The manufacturer’s own cautionary labeling policy and the inclusion of potentially wheat-derived glucose syrup, combined with cross-contamination possibilities, mean the risk is not zero. It is imperative to always check the most current product packaging for ingredients and allergen warnings specific to your region before consuming. When in doubt, it is safest to choose a candy with certified gluten-free status.
