Understanding Gluten in Candy
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In candy manufacturing, gluten can be used in various forms, including flavorings, binders, and crisp or wafer fillings. The source of glucose syrup can also be a hidden source of gluten, though in the United States, it is most often derived from corn. Common culprits to avoid include crispy rice inclusions, wafer layers (like those in Kit Kat), and barley malt, which is a key ingredient in Whoppers and many malted milk ball candies. For anyone with celiac disease, even a small amount of cross-contamination can cause a reaction, so understanding how and where candy is made is crucial.
The Golden Rules of Gluten-Free Candy Shopping
For a safe experience, always follow these guidelines:
- Read the Label Every Time: Ingredient lists and manufacturing practices can change without notice. A product you've safely consumed for years could become unsafe overnight. Always check for specific gluten-containing ingredients like 'wheat,' 'barley,' or 'rye'.
- Look for Certified Seals: The presence of a third-party gluten-free certification logo, such as from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) or the Crossed Grain symbol, provides the highest level of assurance.
- Be Wary of Seasonal Shapes: Popular candies that are usually gluten-free can become unsafe during holiday seasons. Seasonal shapes like Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs or Pumpkins are often produced on different equipment, leading to a high risk of cross-contamination.
- Research Brand Policies: Many companies, like Mars Wrigley, do not certify their products as gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination on shared equipment. Always check the manufacturer's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Popular Gluten-Free Candy Options by Brand
Hershey's
This major manufacturer provides a comprehensive list of its gluten-free products on its website. Note that size variations and seasonal shapes can affect the gluten-free status of a product.
- Almond Joy (excluding Almond Joy Pieces)
- Brookside Dark Chocolate Fruit & Nut Snacks
- Heath Bars
- Most varieties of Hershey's Kisses
- Mounds Bars
- PayDay Candy
- Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (excluding seasonal shapes)
- York Peppermint Patties (excluding York Pieces Candy and minis)
Tootsie Roll Industries
Tootsie Roll is a favorite among the gluten-free community because the company states that all of its confections are gluten-free. They do not use gluten-containing ingredients in their products and state that their equipment is gluten-free.
- Andes Mints
- Caramel Apple Pops
- Charleston Chew
- Dubble Bubble Gum
- Dots
- Tootsie Rolls and Tootsie Pops
Smarties Candy Company
All Smarties products made in the United States are gluten-free and manufactured in a gluten-free facility. An exception is Smarties Gummies, which, while made with gluten-free ingredients, are processed in a facility that also handles wheat and other allergens.
- Smarties
- Smarties Pops
- Love Hearts
Jelly Belly
Jelly Belly confirms that all its jelly bean flavors are gluten-free. The modified food starch used is from corn, not wheat. However, they do make some candies that contain gluten, so checking the label on bulk or repackaged items is crucial.
Mars Wrigley
This company does not label any products as gluten-free due to cross-contamination risk in their facilities. They do, however, list any gluten-containing ingredients on the label. Many people on gluten-free diets still consume products that list no gluten ingredients, but this is a personal risk assessment.
- Potential non-gluten ingredient items include: 3 Musketeers, M&M's (excluding pretzel/crispy), Milky Way Midnight (original is not GF), Skittles, Starburst, and Snickers.
Comparison of Popular Candies
| Candy Type | Gluten-Free Status | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whoppers | Not Gluten-Free | Contains barley malt. |
| M&M's | Most are GF, but check | Excludes crispy, pretzel, and some seasonal varieties. |
| Kit Kat | Not Gluten-Free | Contains a wafer made with wheat flour. |
| Reese's Peanut Butter Cups | Standard is GF | Seasonal shapes are NOT gluten-free due to cross-contamination risk. |
| Tootsie Rolls | Always Gluten-Free | The company explicitly states all confections are free from gluten. |
| Milky Way (Original) | Not Gluten-Free | The original bar contains barley malt. |
| Milky Way Midnight/Caramel | Considered GF | These specific varieties do not contain barley malt. |
Conclusion
While the search for a safe sweet treat can be challenging on a gluten-free diet, numerous popular and safe options are available from reputable brands. The key to a worry-free experience lies in vigilant label reading, understanding potential cross-contamination risks, and being aware of product variations, especially during holidays. For the highest level of certainty, look for products with a third-party gluten-free certification seal. Enjoying candy safely is entirely possible with a bit of research and a mindful approach to your purchases.
For more in-depth information and up-to-date lists, resources like the Celiac Disease Foundation provide valuable guidance.
