Understanding Gluten in Candy and the Risk
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and even small amounts can trigger a harmful autoimmune response in individuals with celiac disease. While many candies are inherently gluten-free, others use gluten-containing ingredients as fillers, binders, or coatings.
- Barley Malt: A common ingredient in many chocolate and malted candies, which is a significant source of gluten (e.g., Whoppers).
- Modified Food Starch: Often derived from corn, but sometimes from wheat. Unless the label specifies the source, this ingredient requires caution.
- Wheat Flour: A common ingredient in candy bars with cookies or wafer layers (e.g., KitKat).
- Cross-Contamination: Even if ingredients are gluten-free, a product can become unsafe if manufactured on shared equipment with gluten-containing items. For individuals with celiac disease, looking for products certified gluten-free is the safest bet.
Safely Navigating Candy Brands: What to Look For
When shopping for candy, vigilance is key. Always read the ingredient list and allergen statement, and be aware that products and manufacturing processes can change. A product that was once safe might not be in the future, especially with seasonal or repackaged items.
Brands and Candies Considered Gluten-Free
Many companies provide gluten-free options or have specific product lines that are safe. However, it's critical to note that some brands, like Mars Wrigley, explicitly state that while products may not contain gluten ingredients, they are not guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination risk.
- Tootsie Roll Industries: Confirms that all its confections, including Tootsie Rolls, Tootsie Pops, and Dots, are gluten-free and not manufactured with wheat, barley, or rye components.
- Spangler Candy: Manufactures many gluten-free candies like Dum Dums and Saf-T-Pops. Dedicated equipment is used for items with UPCs starting with “0 30800,” ensuring they are gluten-free.
- Hershey's: Offers an extensive list of gluten-free products on its website, including many varieties of Kisses, Milk Duds, Heath Bars, and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. However, seasonal shapes of Reese's cups are generally not considered safe due to cross-contamination.
- Smarties (U.S. version): All Smarties products made by the Smarties Candy Company in the United States are gluten-free. Check the packaging for a UPC starting with “0 11206” to confirm manufacturing in a dedicated facility.
- Jelly Belly: All flavors of Jelly Belly beans are gluten-free. Some licensed or repackaged products may have cross-contamination risks, so always check the label.
- YumEarth: This brand specializes in organic, allergy-friendly sweets that are certified gluten-free and free from many other common allergens.
- Enjoy Life Foods: Offers a wide range of certified gluten-free and allergy-friendly chocolate products, including chocolate bars and baking chips.
Important Considerations for Cross-Contamination
For those with celiac disease, preventing cross-contamination is paramount. This can occur at any stage of a product's life, from manufacturing to packaging and even consumer handling.
- Shared Lines: Manufacturers may produce gluten-free candy on the same equipment as gluten-containing items. Unless the product is certified gluten-free or the manufacturer confirms dedicated lines, there is a risk.
- Seasonal and Holiday Items: Seasonal shapes and varieties of typically gluten-free products (e.g., Reese's seasonal shapes, M&Ms with added textures) are often made in different facilities or on shared equipment and should be avoided unless verified.
- Bulk Bins: Never purchase candy from bulk bins, as the scoops can be used across multiple bins, leading to a high risk of cross-contamination.
- International Variations: Ingredients and manufacturing practices can differ significantly between countries. For example, some Haribo products are gluten-free in the U.S. but contain wheat in Europe. Always check labels based on your region.
Gluten-Free Candy Comparison
| Feature | Certified Gluten-Free Candy | Products Labeled "No Gluten Ingredients" | Products with Hidden Gluten | Safest Option? | Certified Gluten-Free by a trusted organization like GFCO. | Requires manufacturer verification and personal risk assessment for cross-contamination. | Avoid entirely. Examples: KitKat, Twizzlers, Whoppers, seasonal Reese's. | | Manufacturing | Produced in a dedicated, gluten-free facility or with strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination. | Made with gluten-free ingredients but often on shared equipment with potential for cross-contamination. | Contains gluten ingredients as a primary component (e.g., wafers, flour) or is malt-based. | | Labeling | Clearly marked with a certified gluten-free logo or statement. | May state "no gluten ingredients" but lack certification. Some brands, like Mars Wrigley, provide only ingredient lists. | Gluten-containing ingredients are listed in the ingredients or allergen statement. | | Example Brands/Products | YumEarth, Enjoy Life, Smarties (U.S. version with 0 11206 UPC), some Spangler items. | Many mainstream candies from Hershey's (check website), Tootsie Roll, M&Ms (non-crispy/pretzel varieties). | KitKat, Whoppers, most original Milky Way bars, Twizzlers. |
Conclusion
While a diagnosis of celiac disease requires caution when it comes to diet, it doesn't mean giving up candy entirely. By understanding label requirements, being aware of cross-contamination risks, and sticking to reputable brands known for their gluten-free options, you can still enjoy a wide variety of sweet treats safely. Always prioritize certified gluten-free products and verify information for seasonal items. When in doubt, it's always best to contact the manufacturer directly or choose a confirmed safe alternative. For further information and updated lists, organizations like Beyond Celiac are invaluable resources for the celiac community.
