Gluten-Free Candies from Major Brands
Many major candy manufacturers offer gluten-free options, but it is important to verify the gluten status of specific products, as variations in ingredients or manufacturing processes can occur. Always consult the most current product information directly from the manufacturer or on the packaging before consuming.
Hershey's
Hershey's provides a list of their gluten-free candies. Examples include All Heath Bars, Milk Duds, and Mounds candy bars. Standard 1.55 oz Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bars are gluten-free. Standard and miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are gluten-free, but seasonal shapes can be a risk due to shared equipment. Most York Peppermint Patties are gluten-free, except for 'pieces', minis, and some seasonal items.
Mars Wrigley
Mars Wrigley products are not officially labeled gluten-free, but some are generally considered safe based on ingredients, provided they do not contain barley malt. Standard M&Ms (milk chocolate, peanut, peanut butter) are often considered gluten-free, but avoid crispy, pretzel, and seasonal varieties due to higher cross-contamination risk. All U.S. flavors of Skittles are made without gluten ingredients. Most Snickers bars are also free of gluten ingredients. Starburst in the U.S. is considered gluten-free, but ingredients vary by country.
Tootsie Roll Industries
Tootsie Roll Industries confirms all their confections are gluten-free.
Dedicated Gluten-Free Candy Brands and Products
For those with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity, certified gluten-free products are the safest option as they are produced to minimize cross-contamination. Specific certified brands and products include {Link: goodforyouglutenfree.com https://www.goodforyouglutenfree.com/gluten-free-halloween-candy-guide/}.
Navigating the Candy Aisle: Comparison Table
| Candy Brand/Product | Gluten-Free Status | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Reese's Peanut Butter Cups | YES (Standard) | NO (Seasonal shapes due to manufacturing risks) |
| M&M's | YES (Standard) | NO (Crispy, Pretzel, or seasonal varieties) |
| Kit Kats | NO | Contains wheat flour |
| Snickers | YES (Standard) | Not certified gluten-free; check ingredients for cross-contamination warnings |
| Twix | NO | Contains wheat in the cookie layer |
| Swedish Fish | YES | Generally considered gluten-free in the U.S., but verify for imported versions |
| Whoppers | NO | Contains barley malt |
| Tootsie Rolls | YES | All Tootsie products are reliably gluten-free |
Tips for Safe Gluten-Free Snacking
Beyond checking ingredients, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination is vital.
- Read the Label Every Time: Ingredient lists and manufacturing processes can change. Always check the current label.
- Look for Certification: Certified gluten-free labels indicate products have been tested to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten.
- Avoid Shared Equipment: Be cautious of warnings like "manufactured on equipment that also processes wheat" if highly sensitive.
- Beware of Seasonal and Regional Differences: Holiday items or products from different countries may have varying ingredients or be made in different facilities.
Conclusion
Enjoying candy on a gluten-free diet is possible with careful selection. Many popular brands and dedicated gluten-free companies offer safe options. Diligent label reading, prioritizing certified products, and understanding cross-contamination risks are key to safely enjoying sweet treats.
