Is Daydreaming about donuts Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the first thing I look for in a gluten-free snack is the flour substitute. TAPIOCA FIBER AND CASSAVA BLEND serves as the structural base here. Cassava root (also known as yuca) is naturally gluten-free and provides a chewy texture similar to traditional donuts. Unlike refined white flour, tapioca fiber is a prebiotic fiber, which is a plus for gut health.

For protein, the brand uses a PLANT FUELED PROTEIN BLEND consisting of WHOLE GRAIN BROWN RICE PROTEIN and ORGANIC PEA PROTEIN. This combination is a smart move; rice protein and pea protein complement each other to create a complete amino acid profile without relying on dairy or gluten-containing grains.

Regarding fats and flavor, ALMONDS provide healthy monounsaturated fats and a nutty flavor, though they are the only major allergen listed. The fats come from PALM OIL and SUNFLOWER OIL. While palm oil is controversial environmentally, it is chemically stable and gluten-free. Finally, the NATURAL FLAVORS are vague, but in the context of a gluten-free certification, these are verified to be free of gluten carriers like hydrolyzed wheat protein.

Nutritional Value

While these donuts pass the gluten test, we need to look at the nutritional density. The inclusion of CANE SUGAR and PALM OIL means this is still an energy-dense treat. You are looking at a mix of simple carbohydrates for quick energy and fats for satiety.

For those tracking macros, the PLANT FUELED PROTEIN BLEND does offer a decent protein punch compared to standard pastries, which helps blunt blood sugar spikes. However, the total calorie count is likely significant for a small snack. If you are on a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet, the CASSAVA BLEND might be too high in carbohydrates for your daily limits, but for a standard gluten-free diet, it fits perfectly.