Is Graham Cracker Snacks Cinnamon Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the ingredient list to determine safety and composition. For Graham Cracker Snacks Cinnamon, the verdict is clear immediately upon reading the label. The product is fundamentally a wheat-based baked good.

The first two ingredients are whole wheat flour and enriched flour. Enriched flour is simply wheat flour that has had certain vitamins and minerals added back in after processing. Wheat, rye, and barley are the three primary grains that contain gluten. Because these flours are the structural base of the snack, the product is not safe for anyone on a gluten-free diet. Additionally, the presence of maltodextrin is worth noting. While maltodextrin can be derived from corn, when it appears in a product that also contains wheat, it is often derived from wheat unless explicitly stated otherwise. Cross-contamination is also a risk in facilities that process wheat, but in this case, the gluten is an intentional ingredient.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Graham Cracker Snacks Cinnamon are a treat designed for flavor rather than health optimization. The ingredient list includes sugar and honey, contributing to the total carbohydrate count. These are processed carbohydrates that can spike blood sugar levels, which is a consideration for those managing insulin resistance or diabetes. The inclusion of vegetable oil (soybean and palm oil) contributes to the fat content. While convenient for texture, these are processed fats. The snack is fortified with vitamin A palmitate, which is a positive addition, but it doesn't outweigh the high sugar and refined flour content. If you are counting calories or watching your sugar intake, these should be consumed in strict moderation.