For those managing celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, scrutinizing every food label is a necessary habit. Candy bars, in particular, can be a minefield of hidden ingredients. The original Milky Way bar, a classic treat enjoyed for decades, is often assumed to be gluten-free, but its ingredients tell a different story. This guide will clarify the gluten content across different Milky Way varieties, explain the critical issue of cross-contamination, and help you make safer dietary choices.
The Original Milky Way: A Source of Hidden Gluten
Unlike pure chocolate, which is naturally gluten-free, the original Milky Way candy bar includes specific additives that make it unsafe for those on a gluten-free diet. The primary culprit is barley malt extract. Barley is a grain containing gluten and is used to flavor the nougat center, giving it a distinct, classic taste. Even a small amount of this ingredient is enough to cause a severe reaction in individuals with celiac disease. For this reason, the standard, milk-chocolate-covered Milky Way bar should be strictly avoided.
Why Barley Malt Matters
Barley malt extract is not one of the top allergens that manufacturers are required to highlight on food labels, unlike wheat. This lack of a prominent warning can make it easy to overlook for those not meticulously checking the full ingredient list. Its presence is a non-negotiable red flag for anyone needing to avoid gluten.
Gluten-Free by Ingredients, but Not Certified
In recent years, Mars, the maker of Milky Way, has introduced different variations that do not list gluten-containing ingredients. The two most prominent examples are the Milky Way Midnight Dark Chocolate bar and the Milky Way Simply Caramel bar.
- Milky Way Midnight: This version substitutes the milk chocolate with a dark chocolate coating and features a vanilla-flavored nougat instead of the malt-containing original. Its ingredient list does not include barley malt extract.
- Milky Way Simply Caramel: As the name suggests, this bar consists of only a caramel center surrounded by milk chocolate, omitting the nougat entirely. Its ingredients also do not list any gluten-containing components.
The Critical Issue of Cross-Contamination
For those with celiac disease, a product being "gluten-free by ingredients" is not enough. The risk of cross-contamination is a significant concern. Mars Inc. produces a wide variety of candy bars in its facilities, many of which contain gluten. Because the company does not certify the Midnight or Simply Caramel versions as gluten-free through a third-party organization, there is a risk that they could come into contact with gluten-containing products during manufacturing. For this reason, individuals with severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease may choose to avoid all Milky Way products entirely to be safe.
How to Read Candy Labels for Hidden Gluten
Navigating the candy aisle requires vigilance. Here are some tips to help you identify gluten-containing products beyond just looking for a "gluten-free" label:
Ingredient Checklist:
- Always check the entire ingredient list, not just the allergen statement.
- Look for common gluten sources like wheat, barley, rye, and oats (unless certified gluten-free).
- Pay special attention to additives like malt, malt extract, malt flavoring, and modified food starch.
- Be cautious of flavorings that might be derived from gluten-containing grains.
Cross-Contamination Warnings:
- Look for "May contain" or "Processed in a facility that also processes..." statements.
- Remember that the absence of these warnings does not guarantee a product is safe from cross-contamination, especially if it is not certified.
Certification is Key:
- The most reliable way to know a product is safe is to look for a certified gluten-free label from an organization like the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG).
Comparison of Milky Way Varieties
| Feature | Original Milky Way | Milky Way Midnight | Milky Way Simply Caramel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contains Gluten Ingredients? | Yes (Barley Malt Extract) | No | No |
| Certified Gluten-Free? | No | No | No |
| Risk of Cross-Contamination? | Low risk for those with mild sensitivity, but severe risk for celiacs if they mistakenly consume | Yes, due to shared facility production | Yes, due to shared facility production |
| Safe for Celiacs? | No | No, not certified | No, not certified |
Safer, Certified Gluten-Free Chocolate Alternatives
Fortunately, there are many delicious chocolate bars and candies that are certified gluten-free and manufactured in dedicated facilities. Here are a few options to consider:
- Certified Gluten-Free Brands: Look for companies that specialize in gluten-free products, such as No Whey Chocolate, which produces bars free from the top 9 common allergens.
- Other Candy Options: Other major candy manufacturers offer products that are verified safe for a gluten-free diet. The Celiac Disease Foundation provides a comprehensive list of gluten-free candy options on their website, which is an excellent resource for finding safe treats.
Conclusion
So, does Milky Way have gluten? The definitive answer depends on the variety. The original Milky Way is not gluten-free due to its use of barley malt extract, making it unsafe for anyone with gluten sensitivities. While the Midnight and Simply Caramel versions are made without gluten-containing ingredients, they are not certified gluten-free and carry a risk of cross-contamination. For those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities, the safest approach is to avoid all Milky Way products and opt for certified gluten-free alternatives to ensure complete safety and peace of mind. Always check the most current ingredient information on the packaging before consuming any product.
