The All-Clear: Why MadeGood Crispy Treats are Gluten-Free
For anyone managing a gluten-free diet, finding safe and delicious snacks can be a challenge. The good news is that MadeGood has specifically formulated their crispy treats to be an inclusive option. Unlike many conventional alternatives, MadeGood crispy squares are explicitly certified gluten-free by third-party organizations, such as the Gluten Intolerance Group. This certification provides assurance that the product meets stringent standards to be safe for consumption by individuals with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders.
MadeGood achieves this safety through both ingredient selection and production practices. Instead of using rice cereals that contain barley-derived malt flavoring, they use brown rice crisps and rice syrup. Additionally, all MadeGood products are made in a dedicated allergen-friendly facility, which is free from the most common allergens, including gluten. This prevents the risk of cross-contamination that can occur in facilities that also process gluten-containing products.
The Critical Distinction: Ingredients and Production
To understand why MadeGood is safe while others are not, it's essential to look at the ingredients list. Traditional crispy rice cereals often use malt flavoring to add sweetness and a distinct taste. Malt is derived from barley, a grain that contains gluten. While the word 'barley' might not be prominently displayed, 'malt flavoring' is a red flag for anyone avoiding gluten. MadeGood bypasses this issue entirely by using alternative sweeteners and ingredients that are naturally gluten-free and confirmed safe through certification.
Demystifying 'Certified Gluten-Free'
What does it mean for a product to be 'Certified Gluten-Free'? The label is more than just a claim; it signifies a third-party audit process that ensures product safety. These programs, like those from the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) or Celiac Canada, verify that a product and its manufacturing facility meet strict criteria.
Key aspects of the certification process include:
- Ingredient Review: All starting ingredients are vetted to ensure they are gluten-free.
- Risk Assessment: Manufacturers must identify and address potential hazards throughout the production process to prevent gluten contamination.
- Facility Audit: Regular on-site audits of the manufacturing facility are conducted to confirm compliance with gluten-free practices.
- Product Testing: Finished products are tested to ensure gluten levels are below the accepted threshold, typically less than 20 parts per million (ppm).
MadeGood's commitment to this level of certification and its use of a dedicated facility provides a level of trust and assurance that a simple 'gluten-free' label without certification cannot offer.
Comparing MadeGood and Traditional Rice Crispy Treats
To highlight the differences, let's compare MadeGood's approach to the traditional recipe that uses Kellogg's Rice Krispies.
| Feature | MadeGood Crispy Squares | Traditional Rice Crispy Treats |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Brown Rice Crisps | Kellogg's Rice Krispies (often with malt) |
| Sweetener | Rice Syrup | Malt Flavoring (from barley) |
| Gluten Status | Certified Gluten-Free | NOT Gluten-Free |
| Production Facility | Dedicated allergen-free facility | Standard facility with cross-contamination risk |
| Hidden Veggies | Contains vegetable extracts | Does not contain added vegetables |
| Allergen Free | Free from top 9 allergens | May contain allergens like soy, milk |
Why MadeGood is the Safe Bet
For those who must strictly avoid gluten, here's a list of reasons why MadeGood is a superior choice:
- Third-Party Certified: Certification removes the guesswork and provides confidence in product claims.
- Dedicated Facility: Production in an allergen-free facility eliminates the risk of cross-contamination, which is a major concern for those with celiac disease.
- Transparent Ingredients: MadeGood's ingredients lists are transparent, using safe, gluten-free rice crisps and syrup rather than hidden gluten sources.
- Allergen-Friendly: Beyond gluten, the products are also free from many other common allergens, making them a safe choice for school lunches and gatherings.
- Nutrient-Rich: The addition of vegetable extracts provides extra nutritional value without compromising taste.
A Delicious and Safe Gluten-Free Treat
In conclusion, if you are looking for a rice crispy treat that is genuinely gluten-free, MadeGood is a reliable and safe option. Unlike conventional versions that contain malt flavoring derived from barley, MadeGood uses certified gluten-free ingredients and produces its treats in a dedicated allergen-free facility, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination. With third-party certification and a transparent ingredient list, you can confidently enjoy MadeGood's crispy squares as a delicious snack that meets strict gluten-free dietary needs.(https://www.madegoodfoods.com/collections/crispy-squares)
