Is Cheddar Crisps Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the safety of a snack like Cheddar Crisps for a gluten-free diet, we have to look past the marketing and straight at the formulation. The primary issue here is the presence of enriched flour and wheat flour. These are standard terms for the flour derived from wheat, which contains gluten proteins that trigger reactions in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

It is common for potato-based snacks to use a wheat-based batter to achieve a specific crunch and hold the seasonings together. In this case, the potatoes are likely coated or mixed with this flour blend before frying or baking. Additionally, the presence of yeast and baking soda suggests a leavening process typical of batters containing gluten.

Furthermore, we must consider cross-contamination risks. While oat fiber is technically gluten-free, oats are frequently processed on the same equipment as wheat. Unless the oats are certified purity grown, there is a risk, though the primary culprit here is the direct addition of wheat ingredients.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Cheddar Crisps are a calorie-dense snack. The primary macronutrients are carbohydrates from the potatoes and flour, and fats from the canola oil and sunflower oil. While fat is necessary for the body, the blend of industrial seed oils is something some consumers prefer to limit.

The cheddar cheese and whey provide a decent amount of protein and calcium, but they also contribute to the saturated fat and sodium content. The sugar content is relatively low compared to sweet snacks, but the salt levels are significant, which is typical for savory seasoned chips. If you are monitoring your sodium intake, this snack could pose a challenge.