Is Cheetos Crunchy Gluten-Free? The Surprising Truth

The Ingredient Breakdown

Cheetos Crunchy ingredients include enriched corn meal, vegetable oil, and cheese seasoning. While enriched corn meal is generally gluten-free, the presence of maltodextrin poses a significant concern. Maltodextrin can be derived from corn, wheat, or other starches, and while the product label does not state wheat explicitly, the possibility exists depending on the source of maltodextrin used in the manufacturing process.

Additionally, cheese seasoning contains whey protein concentrate, which is derived from dairy, meaning it is unsuitable for those with dairy allergies. Notably, Cheetos Crunchy also includes soy, another allergen to watch out for.

Nutritional Value

Cheetos Crunchy has a calorie content that averages around 160 calories per 28g serving, with 10g of fat and 1g of sugar. While these numbers may not seem excessive, the high fat content, mostly coming from vegetable oils and cheese, may not align with a health-oriented diet. The overall nutritional profile indicates that while delicious, it is a processed snack with no significant health benefits, making it less ideal for those aiming for weight loss.