For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, navigating the candy aisle can be challenging. Many seemingly safe candies can contain hidden gluten or be exposed to it through cross-contamination during manufacturing. However, a growing number of companies prioritize clear labeling and dedicated production lines, offering a wide array of options.
The Golden Rules for Celiac-Friendly Candy
To ensure a candy is safe for a gluten-free diet, it’s crucial to go beyond just checking for wheat on the ingredient list. The following steps are key:
- Read the Label Every Time: Manufacturers can change ingredients or use different production lines without notice, especially for seasonal items. Always scrutinize the ingredient list for any mention of wheat, barley, or rye.
- Look for Certified Gluten-Free: Products with a "Certified Gluten-Free" label, such as those from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This offers the highest level of assurance.
- Be Wary of Cross-Contamination Warnings: Some companies, like Mars-Wrigley, will list gluten-containing ingredients but may not explicitly mention potential cross-contamination. Other brands, like See's, might use shared equipment for specialty items. The most sensitive individuals may need to research brands or stick to those with dedicated facilities.
- Seasonal vs. Regular: As noted by Hershey's and Reese's, seasonal or holiday-shaped candies are often produced on different equipment and may not be gluten-free, even if their standard counterparts are safe.
Major Brands and Their Celiac-Friendly Offerings
Many mainstream candy companies provide options that can be safe for celiacs, but you must be a vigilant consumer.
Hershey's
Hershey's has a wide range of gluten-free products, though caution is still necessary, as not all their items are safe. They provide a specific list on their website.
- Safe Options: Varieties of Hershey's Kisses (check the list on their site, as some flavors are not safe), Hershey's Nuggets, Heath Bars, Milk Duds, Mounds, Payday, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (except seasonal shapes), Reese's Pieces (except eggs), Rolo Caramels (except minis), Skor Toffee Bars, and York Peppermint Patties (except some variations).
- To Avoid: 5th Avenue bars, Take 5 bars, Whoppers, and Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme bars. Seasonal or holiday-themed versions of typically safe candies should also be double-checked.
Mars-Wrigley
Mars-Wrigley does not label products as "gluten-free" but does explicitly state gluten-containing ingredients on the packaging. For many, the risk of cross-contamination means exercising caution, but many people on a gluten-free diet successfully consume these candies.
- Typically Safe: 3 Musketeers, Dove Chocolates (most, but check for inclusions like cookies), Life Savers, M&M's (Milk Chocolate, Peanut, Almond, Peanut Butter, Caramel - avoid pretzel, crispy, and seasonal), Milky Way Midnight (Original Milky Way contains barley malt), Snickers, and Starburst.
- To Avoid: Original Milky Way, Pretzel and Crispy M&M's, and certain seasonal M&M's flavors.
Just Born
This company offers numerous gluten-free options and is in the process of labeling them appropriately. Their website provides up-to-date allergen information, though they note some products may be handled in facilities with gluten.
- Typically Safe: Hot Tamales, Mike and Ike, Peeps (check site for specific varieties), Goldenberg's Peanut Chews, and Just Born Jelly Beans.
- To Avoid: Hot Tamales Licorice Bites and some seasonal Peeps products.
A Quick Comparison of Candy Status
| Candy Brand/Type | Celiac-Friendly? | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reese's Peanut Butter Cups | Mostly Yes | AVOID seasonal shapes (pumpkins, eggs, hearts) due to cross-contamination. |
| M&M's | Mostly Yes | AVOID pretzel, crispy, and certain seasonal varieties. Not certified GF. |
| Skittles | Yes (USA) | Made with gluten-free ingredients but not certified GF due to cross-contamination risk. Check regional differences. |
| Tootsie Rolls | Yes | All Tootsie Roll Industries confections are stated to be gluten-free. |
| Kit Kat | No | Contains wheat in the wafer layer. |
| Twizzlers | No | Made with wheat flour. |
| Milky Way | Midnight and Caramel are Safe | Original Milky Way contains barley malt and is NOT safe. |
| Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar | Varies by size | The 1.55oz bar is labeled gluten-free, but other sizes are not. |
Finding Dedicated Gluten-Free Brands
For those with severe sensitivity, opting for brands that specifically cater to allergen-friendly diets and use dedicated equipment can provide greater peace of mind.
- Enjoy Life Foods: Offers a range of chocolates and is certified gluten-free, with a facility free from 14 common allergens.
- Smarties (U.S. version): The Smarties Candy Company states their products are gluten-free and manufactured in a dedicated gluten-free facility if the UPC begins with "0 11206". Note that Canadian Smarties contain gluten.
- YumEarth: This brand produces organic, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly products, including lollipops, gummies, and candy corn, in a dedicated facility.
- Surf Sweets: All Surf Sweets candies are certified gluten-free and allergy-friendly.
- Spangler Candy: This company, known for Dum Dums and Circus Peanuts, manufactures many of its products on dedicated allergen-free equipment.
The Role of Awareness and Vigilance
The most critical takeaway is that a celiac-friendly diet, even when it comes to treats, demands constant awareness. The sweet satisfaction of a safe treat is worth the extra effort of checking the label. Always rely on the most current information available, including official company websites and reputable celiac organizations. While some brands have been historically safe, changes can occur, so a quick check is always a wise final step before enjoying any candy.
For more detailed information and up-to-date resources, you can visit the Beyond Celiac website.
Conclusion: Navigating Your Sweet Tooth Safely
Living with celiac disease doesn't mean giving up candy entirely. From popular chocolate bars like Reese's Peanut Butter Cups to fruity chews like Starburst and dedicated allergy-friendly brands like Enjoy Life, a wealth of delicious options exist. The key is to be an informed consumer, meticulously checking product labels, understanding the nuances of manufacturing practices, and prioritizing certified gluten-free products when necessary. With vigilance and knowledge, you can safely indulge your sweet tooth and manage your nutritional needs.
