Does Fruit by the Foot contain dairy or gluten?

No, Fruit by the Foot is dairy-free and gluten-free. It does not contain milk, wheat, or cheese derivatives.

Is Fruit by the Foot good for weight loss?

Not really. It is high in sugar and calories for a small serving size, which may not be filling enough to support weight loss goals.

Where can I buy Fruit by the Foot?

Fruit by the Foot is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and grocery stores, as well as online via Amazon.

Is Fruit by the Foot safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for kids, but parents should monitor intake due to the high sugar content and potential for stickiness to affect dental health.

Is Fruit by the Foot Gluten Free?

Yes, Fruit by the Foot is gluten-free. After analyzing the ingredient lists for both the Strawberry and Berry Blast varieties, we found no wheat, barley, rye, or hidden gluten derivatives. It is generally considered safe for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. Fruit by the Foot relies on a fruit paste base rather than a grain-based flour, which immediately eliminates the primary source of gluten found in many snacks. The main structural component is pear puree concentrate, which provides the bulk and texture without the need for wheat starch.

For binding and gelling, the manufacturer uses carrageenan, xanthan gum, and locust bean gum. These are all plant-derived hydrocolloids that are naturally gluten-free. They are excellent alternatives to wheat-based thickeners. The sweeteners used, such as corn syrup and sugar, are also free from gluten. While corn syrup is derived from corn (a safe grain), it is important to note that the product label explicitly states it is partially produced with genetic engineering, though this does not impact gluten safety.

Finally, the flavorings and colors are safe. The natural strawberry flavor and natural berry flavor are not typically carriers for gluten, unlike some malt flavorings found in other products. The colors, derived from black carrot juice and turmeric extract, are chemical-free of gluten proteins. There are no maltodextrin sources listed that would indicate a wheat origin (often corn or potato in the US).

Nutritional Value

While Fruit by the Foot is safe regarding gluten, it is important to view it through a nutritional lens. The primary ingredients are sugars—specifically sugar and corn syrup. This means the product is high in simple carbohydrates and low in satiety. A single serving contains a significant portion of its calories from sugar, which can lead to energy spikes and crashes, particularly in children.

Regarding fat content, it contains palm oil and monoglycerides. These are added to provide a chewy texture and mouthfeel. While the total fat is relatively low per serving, palm oil remains a controversial ingredient due to environmental concerns. From a dietary standpoint, this snack fits into a low-fat diet but should be consumed in moderation due to the high sugar content. It does not provide significant fiber or protein to balance the glycemic load.