Does Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy ingredients. It is labeled gluten-free, but contains modified food starch and dextrin that may be derived from wheat.

Is Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! good for weight loss?

No. It is high in sugar and calories with no nutritional value, making it counterproductive for weight loss.

Where can I buy Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR!?

You can find it at major retailers like Walmart, Target, CVS, and on Amazon.

Is Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for kids in moderation, though parents should monitor the intake of sugar and artificial dyes like Yellow #5.

Is Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! Gluten Free?

The short answer is MAYBE. While the packaging for Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! explicitly states 'Gluten Free,' a deep dive into the ingredient list reveals a few gray areas that require attention. If you are highly sensitive to gluten or have Celiac disease, you need to understand the source of specific starches and additives before tearing open that box.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR!, we have to look past the bright colors and focus on the chemistry. The primary ingredients are standard candy fare: SUGAR and CORN SYRUP. Since corn is naturally gluten-free, the base of this candy is generally safe for those avoiding wheat, barley, and rye.

However, the 'MAYBE' verdict comes from two specific ingredients: MODIFIED FOOD STARCH and DEXTRIN. In the United States, modified food starch is typically derived from corn. However, manufacturers can also use wheat starch. While the gluten content in wheat starch is supposed to be minimal, strict celiacs often avoid it entirely. Dextrin is a sugar produced by breaking down starch; it can be made from wheat, corn, potato, or rice. Without a specific source listed, we have to rely on the 'Gluten Free' claim on the box.

The acidity in this candy comes from FUMARIC ACID, CITRIC ACID, and MALIC ACID. These are synthetic acids that provide that signature sour punch. They are chemically derived and are not a gluten concern. The candy is also coated in CONFECTIONERS GLAZE and CARNAUBA WAX to give it a shiny finish. These are natural waxes and are safe for gluten-free diets.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

modified food starchdextrin

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Mike and Ike Mega Mix SOUR! is essentially pure sugar. A standard serving contains a significant amount of carbohydrates—mostly sugar and corn syrup—with zero fat or protein. This makes it a high-glycemic food, meaning it will spike your blood sugar rapidly.

While it is 'fat-free,' it does not fit the criteria for a healthy snack. It provides 'empty calories' with no vitamins, minerals, or fiber. If you are managing your weight or blood sugar, this candy should be treated as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple. The presence of artificial colors like Yellow #5 and Red #40 is also worth noting for those sensitive to food dyes.