Is More Fruit Grape Fruit Spread Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this fruit spread is safe for a gluten-free diet, we need to look closely at what goes into the jar. The formula relies on fruit extracts and gelling agents rather than grain-based thickeners.

The primary ingredient is CONCORD GRAPE JUICE FROM CONCENTRATE. This provides the authentic grape flavor and deep purple color. As a fruit juice, it is naturally free of gluten. Following this is SUGAR, which is a simple carbohydrate derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, ensuring no grain cross-contamination.

For texture, the spread uses FRUIT PECTIN and CAROB BEAN GUM. This is a crucial detail for gluten-free consumers. Many older jams or jellies used wheat starch as a thickener. However, pectin comes from fruit cell walls, and Carob Bean Gum (locust bean gum) comes from seeds. Neither contains gluten.

Finally, the acidity is regulated by CITRIC ACID and SODIUM CITRATE. These are standard food additives used to balance pH and preserve freshness, derived from fermentation processes that do not involve gluten-containing ingredients. With no flags found, this product passes the gluten-free test.

Nutritional Value

While this spread is safe for gluten-free diets, it is important to view it through a nutritional lens. The product is primarily a source of quick energy due to the combination of fruit juice and added sugar. It does not contain significant amounts of fat or protein.

For those monitoring their sugar intake, this spread should be consumed in moderation. The 'More Fruit' label suggests a higher fruit content compared to standard jellies, which may offer slightly more vitamins from the grape juice concentrate. However, the total sugar content remains high. If you are on a low-carb or diabetic diet, you may need to limit your portion size. It fits well into a standard diet as a treat, but it is not a 'health food' in the strictest sense.