If you’re one of the millions of people who have to follow a gluten-free diet, you know how important it is to carefully read food labels. Even seemingly innocent items like breakfast cereals can contain gluten from wheat, barley, or rye.
One popular cereal, Reese’s Puffs, raises this question for gluten-free eaters. With its peanut butter and chocolate flavor, it’s a beloved breakfast option. But can those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity enjoy it?
The Relief: Reese’s Puffs Are Considered Gluten-Free
The good news is yes, Reese’s Puffs are considered gluten-free! This is welcome news for those who might have thought they had to miss out.
Why They’re Gluten-Free:
- Safe Ingredients: The main ingredients in Reese’s Puffs are corn, peanut butter, sugar, and cocoa, none of which contain gluten.
- Certification and Trace Amounts: The cereal is certified gluten-free according to FDA regulations, meaning it contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten, a safe amount for most with gluten sensitivities.
- Dedicated Facilities: To prevent contamination, Reese’s Puffs are manufactured in a dedicated gluten-free facility.
Other Allergens in Reese’s Puffs
While gluten-free, Reese’s Puffs contain other allergens like peanuts and milk. The peanut butter flavor comes from real peanut butter, and milk-derived ingredients like milk fat and milk protein are also present. So, those with peanut or milk allergies should avoid this cereal. Always check the ingredients list for any allergies or intolerances.
History of Gluten-Free Reese’s Puffs
Debuting in 1994, Reese’s Puffs quickly became a hit. While the original recipe contained gluten, it was reformulated in 2014 to be certified gluten-free. General Mills, the manufacturer, made this change to meet the growing demand for gluten-free products.
Alternatives to Reese’s Puffs
Even though Reese’s Puffs are now gluten-free, some might prefer other options. Here are some gluten-free, peanut butter puffed cereals made with rice or corn:
- Barbara’s Puffins Peanut Butter Cereal
- 365 Everyday Value Peanut Butter Puffed Corn Cereal
- Mom’s Best Naturals Peanut Butter Crisp Cereal
- Annie’s Organic Peanut Butter Puffed Cereal
- Nature’s Path Peanut Butter Puffed Corn Cereal
Other Gluten-Free Reese’s Products
Many core Reese’s products are naturally gluten-free, according to their website. These include:
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Reese’s Pieces Candies
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs
- Reese’s Nutrageous Bars
- Reese’s Take 5 Bars
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Miniatures
However, always check labels, as some limited-edition or seasonal items may contain gluten.
The Reese’s brand also advises that while their candies are gluten-free, they may contain trace amounts due to shared manufacturing facilities. This usually doesn’t affect those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, but consult your doctor if highly sensitive.
Enjoy Your Gluten-Free Reese’s Puffs!
For peanut butter and chocolate cereal lovers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, rejoice! You can enjoy a bowl of Reese’s Puffs worry-free. Just be mindful of peanut and milk allergens, and always double-check labels or contact manufacturers with any concerns. Otherwise, go ahead and indulge your cravings!
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I’m Neasa Miller, a professional dietitian with 5 years of experience. I founded glutenfreelifestyles.org to assist people online in embracing gluten-free living. Read more about me