Does Breton Original contain dairy or gluten?

Breton Original contains gluten from wheat flour, wheat germ, and wheat bran. It does not appear to contain dairy ingredients, but it does contain soy.

Is Breton Original good for weight loss?

Breton Original is a processed carbohydrate snack with added sugar. While it can be eaten in moderation, it is not specifically designed for weight loss and is calorie-dense.

Where can I buy Breton Original?

Breton Original crackers are widely available in Canada at major grocery chains like Loblaws, Metro, and Sobeys, as well as online through Amazon.ca.

Is Breton Original safe for kids?

Yes, Breton Original is generally safe for children as it contains no caffeine or artificial stimulants. However, it contains soy and wheat, which are common allergens.

Is Breton Original Gluten Free?

No, Breton Original crackers are not gluten-free. Despite their wholesome reputation, the ingredient list confirms the presence of wheat. If you are strictly avoiding gluten, you should avoid this specific variety of Breton crackers.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the safety of a product for a gluten-free diet, the first place to look is the primary ingredient. For Breton Original, the very first ingredient listed is Farine de blé, which is simply French for wheat flour. This is the main structural component of the cracker, meaning the product is fundamentally built on gluten-containing grain.

Beyond the flour, we must look at secondary ingredients that might pose hidden risks. The list includes Germe de blé (wheat germ) and Son de blé (wheat bran). Both of these are components of the wheat kernel and naturally contain gluten. While wheat germ is often prized for its nutritional content, it is strictly off-limits for those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

There is a small mercy here regarding cross-contamination. The product is manufactured in a facility that is free of peanuts, which is good news for those with nut allergies. However, the label also states it may contain sesame seeds. While sesame is not related to gluten, it is an allergen to watch out for. Regarding the wheat processing, the manufacturer does not claim a 'gluten-free' certification, which is expected given the primary ingredients.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Breton Original crackers are a source of refined carbohydrates. The presence of wheat germ adds a small amount of fiber and nutrients like Vitamin E, but the majority of the flour used is refined. The crackers also contain sucre de canne (cane sugar), contributing to the total carbohydrate count and providing a slight sweetness that balances the savory notes.

In terms of fats, the product uses huile végétale (vegetable oil), which includes coconut oil. This provides the necessary fat content for the mouthfeel of the cracker. For those monitoring their intake, these crackers fit into a standard diet as a source of energy, but they are not a 'low-carb' or 'low-sugar' option. They are a standard processed grain product.