Gluten Free Candy Guide- Ingredients to Look for

Living gluten-free shouldn't mean sacrificing sweet treats! But navigating the candy aisle can be tricky. Here's your roadmap to deciphering ingredient lists and finding delicious gluten free candy options.

The Gluten Gremlins:

First, let's identify the enemies: gluten-containing ingredients in American candies. These sneaky culprits often hide in plain sight, so be on the lookout for:

• Wheat Flour, Barley Malt, Rye: These grains are the main culprits and will be clearly listed under ingredients.
• Modified Food Starch: This can be a red flag, but not always. Some modified food starches are corn-based and gluten-free. Look for "corn starch" or "gluten-free" labelling to be sure.
• Dextrins and Malt Syrup: These can be derived from wheat, so proceed with caution. If the source isn't specified as corn or gluten-free, it's best to avoid them.
• Caramel and Candy Bars: These can sometimes contain wheat flour, barley malt, or hidden gluten sources. Always check the ingredients list carefully.

The Gluten-Free Guardians:

Now, let's meet your sugary saviours - ingredients that are generally safe for a gluten-free diet:

• Dark Chocolate: In its purest form (cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar), dark chocolate is usually gluten-free. However, always check labels for added ingredients like wheat flour or malt.
• Milk Chocolate: While milk chocolate may contain gluten from added ingredients like barley malt, many brands offer gluten-free varieties.
• Fruits and Nuts: Look for candies that feature dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. These are naturally gluten-free and offer a healthy twist to your sweet treats.
• Candy Canes and Hard Candy: These classic candies are often gluten-free, but double-check for hidden wheat or barley.
• Gummy Candies: Many gummy candies are free of gluten, but again, consult the ingredients list for any surprises.

Pro-Tips for Gluten-Free Candy Hunting:

• Read, Re-Read, Read: This may seem obvious, but scrutinize ingredient lists carefully. Don't be afraid to put down a candy if you're unsure about an ingredient.
• Look for the Gluten-Free Label: Many manufacturers clearly label their gluten-free products. This is the easiest way to identify safe choices.
• Download Gluten-Free Apps: There are smartphone apps that can scan product barcodes and identify gluten-containing ingredients.

With a little detective work and these handy tips, you can navigate the candy aisle with confidence and indulge your sweet tooth without sacrificing your gluten-free lifestyle. Happy hunting!