Is Caffeinated Greens raspberry limeade Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at labels to find the source of the problem. In the case of Caffeinated Greens raspberry limeade, the issue isn't the flavoring or the sweetener—it's the very foundation of the "greens" blend. The formula is packed with superfoods like Organic Spirulina, Organic Chlorella, and Organic Kale Powder. However, the formula also includes three specific ingredients that are red flags for gluten-free diets: Barley Grass Powder, Oat Grass Powder, and Wheat Grass Powder.

Technically, the grass of these plants (before they produce the grain) is considered gluten-free. However, in the manufacturing world, this is a gray area. Wheat grass is notoriously difficult to harvest without including some of the wheat kernel, which contains gluten. Furthermore, Barley grass is often grown in rotation with wheat, leading to high cross-contamination risks. Unless the manufacturer has specifically tested this batch to be under 20ppm of gluten (which they haven't claimed on the label), the presence of these grasses renders the product unsafe for anyone with gluten intolerance.

Nutritional Value

Looking past the gluten issue, Caffeinated Greens raspberry limeade is designed as a low-calorie supplement. The primary sweetener is Stevia, meaning you won't find added sugars spiking the glycemic index. The calorie count is negligible, making it a viable option for those strictly counting calories. The inclusion of Organic Agave Inulin Powder provides a prebiotic fiber boost, which is excellent for digestion, though it can cause bloating in sensitive individuals if taken in large quantities. The caffeine content is derived from the grasses and added caffeine, providing a moderate energy lift without the crash associated with sugary energy drinks. It fits well into a weight-management plan, provided you aren't sensitive to the digestive enzymes (Amylase, Protease, etc.) listed in the ingredients.