Nutrition Diet: Are solely mango strips gluten-free?

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

Approximately 1% of the global population has celiac disease, necessitating a strict gluten-free diet. For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, this makes reading labels critical for snacks like dried fruit, prompting the important question: are solely mango strips gluten-free?

Quick Summary

Solely mango strips are made from a single fruit ingredient, making them naturally gluten-free. This article explores the risks of cross-contamination in processed dried fruits, the importance of certification, and how to confidently select safe snacks for a gluten-free lifestyle.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten-Free: Fresh mango is naturally free of gluten, making it a safe food for those with celiac disease.
The 'Solely' Difference: The brand 'Solely' specifically produces single-ingredient organic mango strips, which are clearly labeled and confirmed gluten-free, minimizing risk.
Risk of Cross-Contamination: Processed and packaged dried fruit from other brands can be at risk of cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities that handle gluten-containing products.
Importance of Certification: Relying on a 'gluten-free' label or a third-party certification (like GFCO) provides assurance that the product meets safety standards and has been tested for gluten.
Read the Ingredient List: Always check the ingredient list for hidden gluten sources, especially in products with added flavors, starches, or preservatives.
Avoid Bulk Bins: Dried fruit from bulk bins should be avoided due to the high risk of cross-contamination from other products.

The Naturally Gluten-Free Base of Dried Mango

At its core, mango is a tropical fruit that is naturally gluten-free. Gluten is a protein found exclusively in certain grains like wheat, barley, and rye, meaning fresh fruits and vegetables do not contain it. For those following a gluten-free diet, unprocessed fruits are a safe and nutritious snack choice. However, the simplicity of a fresh fruit changes once it enters the manufacturing process to become a dried snack like mango strips.

The Role of Processing in Gluten Contamination

While the mango itself is safe, the process of turning it into a dried, packaged product introduces potential risks for those with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity.

Cross-Contamination Explained

Cross-contamination occurs when a naturally gluten-free food item comes into contact with gluten-containing products, surfaces, or utensils. In the context of dried fruit, this could happen in several ways during manufacturing:

Shared Equipment: The most common risk is processing gluten-free items on the same equipment (e.g., conveyor belts, slicing machines, packing lines) as products containing wheat, oats (if not certified), or other gluten sources. Effective and verifiable cleaning protocols are required to mitigate this risk.
Shared Facilities: Even if equipment is cleaned, a shared facility where flour or other gluten-containing ingredients are airborne can pose a risk.
Added Ingredients: Some brands add starch or flour to dried fruit to prevent sticking or enhance texture. Unless specifically stated as gluten-free, these additives could be derived from wheat.

The Importance of a 'Gluten-Free' Label

Given these risks, relying on a product's 'naturally gluten-free' status is insufficient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies require products labeled as 'gluten-free' to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This standard ensures that even if some cross-contamination occurred, the gluten level is low enough to be considered safe for those with celiac disease. For added assurance, some organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) set even stricter standards, testing for less than 10 ppm and performing facility audits.

Are solely mango strips gluten-free? A Look at a Specific Brand

The brand 'Solely' is known for its single-ingredient products. A review of their offerings shows their Organic Mango Strips are made with only one ingredient—organic mango. They are transparent about their process and label their products clearly as 'gluten-free', 'vegan', and 'non-GMO'. For a person needing a strict gluten-free diet, Solely's simple ingredient list and certification provide confidence in their product's safety.

How to Choose Safe Dried Fruit

When selecting dried fruit, particularly mango strips, it is essential to be a savvy consumer. The safest options are those with the fewest ingredients and proper certification.

What to look for:

A Clear 'Gluten-Free' Label: Look for products explicitly stating they are gluten-free, or bearing a certified gluten-free logo from organizations like GFCO or Coeliac UK.
Simple Ingredient List: The ideal list contains just the fruit itself. A single-ingredient product drastically reduces the risk of hidden gluten.
Contact Information: Reputable manufacturers will provide contact information, allowing you to ask about their processing facilities and cross-contamination protocols if you have concerns.

What to be cautious of:

Bulk Bins: Dried fruit from bulk bins carries a high risk of cross-contamination from other products and shared scoops.
Uncertified Products: If a product doesn't claim to be gluten-free, even if the ingredients seem safe, avoid it. This is especially true for processed snacks.
Non-Specific Ingredients: Be wary of products with long lists of ingredients, especially vague terms like 'natural flavors' or 'modified food starch', which could contain hidden gluten sources.

Comparison: Solely vs. Generic Dried Mango


Feature	Solely Organic Mango Strips	Generic Dried Mango (e.g., bulk bin or uncertified)
Ingredients	100% Organic Mango, Nothing Else	Mango, potentially added sugar, citric acid, or preservatives (like sulfur dioxide)
Gluten Status	Clearly labeled and certified gluten-free	Assumed to be gluten-free (but not guaranteed)
Cross-Contamination Risk	Extremely Low (single ingredient, certified process)	High (risk depends on unknown manufacturer practices)
Transparency	High (labeling is very clear)	Low (information on processing methods is unavailable)
Best for Celiac/Sensitive Diet	Yes, very safe and reliable option	No, not recommended due to high cross-contamination risk

A Broader Look at Gluten-Free Snacking

Dried fruit, when sourced carefully, can be a great addition to a gluten-free diet. It offers vitamins, fiber, and a satisfying sweetness. However, a truly healthy gluten-free diet should not just rely on processed alternatives but focus on a wide variety of naturally gluten-free foods.

Consider pairing your safe mango strips with other whole-food, gluten-free options:

Nuts and Seeds: Raw or roasted nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, sunflower seeds) are a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats.
Yogurt or Dairy Alternatives: Plain yogurt or dairy-free alternatives can be topped with dried fruit for a balanced snack.
Trail Mix: Create a homemade trail mix with certified gluten-free dried fruit, nuts, and seeds to control all ingredients.

Conclusion: Safe Snacking Starts with the Label

In conclusion, the specific answer to 'are solely mango strips gluten-free?' is a resounding yes, based on their single-ingredient formulation and specific gluten-free labeling. However, the broader takeaway for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is the crucial importance of due diligence. When it comes to any processed food, including dried fruit, always read the label thoroughly. Look for explicit 'gluten-free' claims and certifications to ensure safety from cross-contamination and hidden additives. By being vigilant, you can enjoy delicious snacks like dried mango without compromising your health.

For more detailed guidance on living with celiac disease and navigating a gluten-free diet, consider visiting the official Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) website, a reputable resource for consumer information and certification standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all dried mango is guaranteed to be gluten-free. While fresh mango contains no gluten, the processing of dried mango can lead to cross-contamination or the addition of gluten-containing ingredients. It is essential to check for a 'gluten-free' label or certification.

The primary risk is cross-contamination during manufacturing, which can occur if the dried fruit is processed or packaged on the same equipment or in a shared facility as gluten-containing products like wheat.

Look for a clear 'gluten-free' label on the packaging. For the highest assurance, look for a third-party certification mark, such as the GFCO logo. Check the ingredient list to ensure it's simple and free of added starches or flavors.

Yes, Solely mango strips are a safe option for people with celiac disease. The brand is explicit that its product is made with one organic ingredient and is labeled gluten-free.

Bulk bins pose a high risk of cross-contamination due to shared scoops and proximity to other products that may contain gluten. For a strict gluten-free diet, it is safest to choose pre-packaged items with a reliable gluten-free label.

Many dried fruits are naturally gluten-free, including raisins, apricots, and dates. However, like with mango strips, you must always choose products specifically labeled as gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

A 'gluten-free' label means the product meets regulatory standards (e.g., <20 ppm in the US). 'Certified gluten-free' means it has been independently verified by a third party, often with stricter standards and regular auditing of the facility, providing a higher level of confidence.