A Guide to Identifying Gluten in Hershey Kisses
Following a gluten-free diet, whether for celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or personal preference, requires vigilance. While many whole foods are naturally free of gluten, processed foods like candy can pose a hidden risk. Hershey's has made several of its products gluten-free, including many Kisses varieties. However, not all Kisses are created equal, and some contain gluten, often in the form of added ingredients or due to shared manufacturing equipment. This guide will help you identify which ones to avoid.
Understanding the Labeling
The most reliable way to determine if a Hershey's product is gluten-free is to read the ingredient label and check the Hershey's website. The company provides a dedicated section on its site with a current list of gluten-free products. Ingredient lists can change, so a product that was once safe might not be in the future. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines 'gluten-free' as containing less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. However, for individuals with high sensitivity, even small amounts from cross-contamination can be problematic.
The Culprits: Which Hershey Kisses Varieties to Avoid
Based on information from Hershey's and reliable third-party sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation, several Kisses varieties are known to contain gluten ingredients and are not considered safe for a gluten-free diet. The most common culprits include ingredients like cookie pieces or other add-ins derived from wheat. When reviewing the ingredient list, keep an eye out for mentions of wheat flour, malt, or other gluten-containing substances. If a specific Kiss flavor is not on the official gluten-free list provided by Hershey's, it's best to err on the side of caution and avoid it entirely.
Here are some of the Hershey Kisses varieties that are not gluten-free:
- Cookies 'n' Creme Kisses: These are a key example, as they contain cookie pieces made from wheat flour.
- Birthday Cake Kisses: The cake-flavored bits typically contain gluten ingredients.
- Hot Cocoa Kisses: Contains gluten ingredients.
- Sugar Cookie White Creme Kisses: These contain cookie pieces.
- Certain Filled or Seasonal Flavors: Always check the label on new or limited-edition flavors. Flavors with cookie dough, wafer, or other inclusions are highly likely to contain gluten. Some past examples include Milk Chocolate Meltaways with Rose Filling and Valentine's Lava Cake Dark Chocolate.
The Problem of Cross-Contamination
Even if a specific Kiss variety doesn't contain gluten ingredients, cross-contamination is a significant concern, especially for those with celiac disease. Cross-contamination occurs when a food product is exposed to gluten during the manufacturing or packaging process. While Hershey's takes precautions, different products are often made on the same equipment. Hershey's official gluten-free lists typically account for this by only including products that are manufactured in a way that minimizes cross-contact. Always trust the official list over assumptions.
Gluten-Containing vs. Gluten-Free Hershey Kisses
To help you easily differentiate, here is a comparison table outlining common Kiss varieties based on their gluten status:
| Gluten-Free Varieties | Non-Gluten-Free Varieties |
|---|---|
| Original Milk Chocolate | Cookies 'n' Creme |
| Special Dark Mildly Sweet | Birthday Cake |
| Hugs Candy | Hot Cocoa |
| Milk Chocolate Filled with Caramel | Sugar Cookie White Creme |
| Milk Chocolate Filled with Cherry Cordial Crème | Seasonal flavors with cookie pieces |
| Candy Cane | Flavors with inclusions or specific fillings that are not on the official GF list |
Note: This table is a general guide. Always consult the official packaging and the Hershey's website for the most current information.
The Broader Picture: A Healthy Gluten-Free Diet
While avoiding gluten-containing Kisses is crucial for managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it's important to remember the larger context of a healthy diet. Many commercially available gluten-free products, including candy, can be high in calories, sugar, and fat, and low in fiber. For a balanced diet, it's best to moderate your intake of all processed snacks, regardless of their gluten status. Prioritizing nutrient-dense whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free whole grains is key to a truly healthy nutritional diet.
Conclusion
For those on a gluten-free diet, not all Hershey Kisses are a safe treat. Flavors that incorporate cookie pieces or other gluten-based fillings, such as Cookies 'n' Creme and Birthday Cake, must be avoided. Rely on the most up-to-date information from Hershey's official website and always inspect the product's packaging for a gluten-free label before purchasing. By being a diligent label reader, you can enjoy the delicious, and safe, gluten-free Kisses varieties while maintaining your dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some specific varieties of Hershey Kisses that contain gluten?
Cookies 'n' Creme, Birthday Cake, Hot Cocoa, and Sugar Cookie White Creme Kisses are confirmed varieties that contain gluten.
Are all Hershey's Kisses milk chocolate flavors gluten-free?
No, while the classic Milk Chocolate Kisses are gluten-free, some flavored or seasonal milk chocolate varieties may contain gluten, so always check the label.
Can seasonal Hershey's Kisses be gluten-free?
Yes, some seasonal Kisses, like the Candy Cane and Milk Chocolate varieties in holiday foils, are gluten-free, but others are not. Always verify before purchasing.
Is cross-contamination a risk with Hershey Kisses?
Yes, for highly sensitive individuals with celiac disease, cross-contamination is a risk. It is best to stick to varieties listed on Hershey's official gluten-free list, as these are manufactured with cross-contact in mind.
Where can I find the official Hershey's gluten-free product list?
The official list is available on the Hershey Company's website, which is the most reliable source for up-to-date product information.
Are filled Hershey's Kisses varieties generally safe for a gluten-free diet?
It depends on the filling. While varieties like caramel and cherry cordial creme are often safe, others like cookie dough or lava cake fillings are not. Always check the specific product label.
Why are some gluten-containing Hershey's Kisses not explicitly labeled as such?
Some Kisses are not explicitly labeled as containing gluten because it's not a major allergen. The safest practice is to always check the ingredient list for any potential gluten sources and consult Hershey's official gluten-free product list.
