Is Wrigley's 5 Gum Gluten-Free? Your Complete Guide

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Wrigley's official statements and gluten-free product lists, Wrigley's 5 Gum is considered gluten-free in the U.S. and is safe for most individuals following a gluten-free diet. However, navigating the world of gluten-free claims can be tricky, especially for those with celiac disease or high sensitivity.

Quick Summary

Wrigley's 5 Gum is assessed as gluten-free in the U.S. by the manufacturer, but it is important to understand the ingredients and manufacturing processes, which can vary by region. The product does not contain wheat, barley, or rye.

Key Points

Officially Gluten-Free in the U.S.: Wrigley's has stated that all U.S. 5 Gum flavors are gluten-free, meaning they do not contain ingredients with wheat, barley, or rye.
Ingredient Clarity: The potentially confusing ingredient, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, is confirmed by Wrigley to be derived from potato in their U.S. products.
Beware of Regional Variations: Product formulations for 5 Gum can vary internationally; always check the specific country's labeling or local Wrigley website.
Cross-Contamination Risk: While low for 5 Gum, individuals with celiac disease should remain aware of potential cross-contamination risks, although Wrigley maintains specific products like Altoids are handled separately.
Look for Certifications: For the highest level of assurance, brands that are explicitly certified gluten-free may be preferable for those with severe sensitivities.
Check for Other Allergens: 5 Gum contains soy lecithin, and some flavors may contain colors and other ingredients that require consideration beyond just gluten.

Official Stance on Wrigley's 5 Gum and Gluten

The most important information for anyone with a gluten concern comes directly from the manufacturer, Mars Wrigley. For their U.S. market, the company has consistently stated that its chewing gums, including all flavors of 5 Gum, are assessed as gluten-free. This assessment means that the products do not contain ingredients derived from wheat, barley, or rye.

The Importance of Regional Differences

It is crucial to understand that product formulations can and do vary between countries. What is considered gluten-free in the United States might not be the case in Australia, New Zealand, or European markets. For this reason, those living outside the U.S. should check the ingredient list and allergen information on local packaging or consult their region's Wrigley website for accurate information. Celiac.com forum discussions have pointed out this very discrepancy in the past, highlighting that international labeling can differ.

Key Ingredients and Allergens to Consider

For those on a strict gluten-free diet, understanding the specific ingredients in 5 Gum is essential. The general ingredient list for U.S. varieties includes:

Sorbitol
Gum base
Glycerol
Mannitol
Natural and artificial flavors
Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate
Aspartame and Acesulfame K (sweeteners)
Soy lecithin
Colors (e.g., Blue 1 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake)
BHT (to maintain freshness)

The Case of Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate

One ingredient that has caused confusion in the past is hydrogenated starch hydrolysate. This is because starch can be derived from various sources, including wheat. However, Mars Wrigley has clarified for the U.S. market that the hydrogenated starch hydrolysate used in their gums is derived from potato, not wheat, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals. This clarification is a vital piece of information for those concerned about hidden gluten sources.

Cross-Contamination and Manufacturing

While the ingredients themselves do not contain gluten, cross-contamination is a valid concern for individuals with celiac disease. Wrigley has acknowledged this, stating they follow all labeling requirements. For the U.S. market, they have specified which products are made on shared equipment with wheat-derived ingredients, such as certain Altoids mints, and label these accordingly. Their gums, including 5 Gum, do not fall into this category in the U.S., offering a higher degree of safety for many. Always check the most recent packaging, as manufacturing practices can evolve.

Comparison of 5 Gum and Other Gluten-Free Chewing Gums


Gum Brand	Gluten-Free Status (U.S.)	Vegan Status	Key Differentiator
Wrigley's 5 Gum	Assessed as gluten-free	Varies by flavor (Some not vegan)	Intense, sugar-free flavors with a focus on experience
Simply Gum	Certified Gluten-Free	Yes	All-natural ingredients, plastic-free
Glee Gum	Certified Gluten-Free	Yes	Natural, non-GMO, and vegetarian
Pur Gum	Certified Gluten-Free	Yes	Aspartame-free, sweetened with xylitol

What about Artificial Sweeteners?

It is important to note that 5 Gum uses artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which, while not a gluten-related issue, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms for some people. These symptoms can sometimes be confused with a gluten reaction, so it is important for individuals to distinguish between them if they experience discomfort.

Navigating the Gluten-Free Landscape for Gum

For those seeking gum free from gluten, several strategies can provide peace of mind:

Stick to Confirmed Brands: Focus on brands like Simply Gum or Glee Gum, which are certified gluten-free, or rely on Wrigley's U.S. gum products based on the manufacturer's statements.
Read Labels Closely: Always check the ingredient list on the packaging, regardless of any general brand claims. Ingredients can change over time.
Beware of International Products: When traveling or buying products imported from other regions, assume the gluten status may be different and check local labeling or websites.
Consider Severity of Sensitivity: For those with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity, opting for gums that are certified gluten-free provides the highest level of assurance against cross-contamination.

Conclusion: Chewing Safely with 5 Gum

In summary, for consumers in the U.S., Wrigley's 5 Gum is considered a gluten-free product, as confirmed by the manufacturer. The key ingredients, including hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, are sourced to be gluten-free. While the risk of cross-contamination is generally low for this specific product in the U.S., individuals with celiac disease should always practice vigilance by reading current product labels. For maximum confidence, choosing a certified gluten-free gum is the safest option. Ultimately, with the right information, most gluten-conscious consumers can enjoy 5 Gum without worry.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, according to the manufacturer, Wrigley's 5 Gum sold in the U.S. does not contain wheat. The company ensures proper labeling for any product that does contain wheat-derived ingredients.

For most people with celiac disease, the U.S. version of 5 Gum is considered safe based on Wrigley's gluten-free assessment and potato-based starch hydrolysate. However, individuals with extreme sensitivity should weigh the risk of any potential cross-contamination, though it is considered low.

Yes, if you are gluten intolerant, 5 Gum is suitable for consumption as it does not contain gluten ingredients. If you have a different sensitivity, check the full ingredient list for specific components like artificial sweeteners.

To verify the gluten status outside the U.S., you should check the product's ingredient list on the packaging, visit your regional Mars Wrigley website, or contact the local customer service department.

Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is a type of starch-based sweetener. In U.S. 5 Gum, Wrigley has confirmed it is derived from potato, not wheat, making it gluten-free.

The majority of Wrigley's gums in the U.S., including 5 Gum, Extra, and Orbit, are considered gluten-free. However, some other Wrigley products, such as specific Altoids, contain wheat-derived ingredients and are labeled accordingly.

Yes, 5 Gum contains soy lecithin, which is an allergen. Always check the full ingredient list for other allergens that might be relevant to your diet, such as corn and soy.