Is It's Berry Special Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the ingredient list to determine safety and formulation. For It's Berry Special, the verdict is clear: it is built on a wheat platform. The first ingredient listed is Rice, followed immediately by whole grain wheat. While rice is naturally gluten-free, the inclusion of whole grain wheat means the product is not suitable for a gluten-free diet.

The issues don't stop there. Further down the list, we see wheat bran and soluble wheat fiber. These are byproducts of the wheat milling process and contain gluten proteins. Even more concerning for those avoiding gluten is the inclusion of malt syrup. Malt syrup is almost exclusively derived from barley (which contains gluten) or wheat and is used to provide a distinct sweetness and flavor. It is a common hidden source of gluten in cereals.

Finally, the presence of malt flavoring or syrup is a definitive flag. Even if the wheat content were somehow removed, malt is a non-negotiable gluten source. Therefore, this product should be strictly avoided by anyone on a gluten-restricted diet.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, It's Berry Special is a fortified cereal. The manufacturer has added a robust blend of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and various B vitamins like Niacinamide and Folic Acid. This helps boost the vitamin profile, but it doesn't negate the sugar content.

The sweetness comes from sugar, corn syrup, and malt syrup. While the specific sugar content per serving isn't listed in your data, the combination of three different sweeteners suggests a moderately high sugar load. For those watching their sugar intake or managing weight, this cereal should be consumed in moderation. It provides quick energy but lacks the high fiber and protein content that keeps you full longer.