Does MTN Dew contain dairy or gluten?

No, MTN Dew contains no dairy and no gluten ingredients. It is safe for vegans and those with celiac disease.

Is MTN Dew good for weight loss?

No. With 170 calories and 46 grams of sugar per can, MTN Dew is high in empty calories which can hinder weight loss efforts.

Where can I buy MTN Dew?

MTN Dew is widely available at grocery stores, gas stations, convenience stores, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is MTN Dew safe for kids?

While it is gluten-free, the high sugar and caffeine content (54mg) means it should be limited for children.

Is MTN Dew Gluten Free?

Yes, MTN Dew is gluten-free. Based on the official ingredients list, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or oat derivatives present. While the soda is safe for those avoiding gluten, it contains high sugar and artificial additives that warrant a closer look.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I scrutinize ingredients for hidden gluten sources like malt or wheat starch. Fortunately, the classic MTN Dew formula is straightforward. The primary sweetener is high fructose corn syrup, which is derived from corn—a naturally gluten-free grain. The flavor profile relies on concentrated orange juice and natural flavor, neither of which typically contain gluten.

For preservation and stability, the formula uses sodium benzoate and erythorbic acid. These are synthetic preservatives that are chemically gluten-free. The acidity is balanced by citric acid and sodium citrate, both common in citrus sodas and safe for celiacs. The texture is enhanced by gum arabic, a plant-derived gum, and calcium disodium EDTA is added to protect the flavor from oxidation.

There are two controversial ingredients worth noting, though neither relates to gluten. Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is used to keep the citrus flavoring suspended, and Yellow 5 provides the neon green color. While BVO has faced scrutiny for potential health effects, it does not contain gluten. Therefore, from a strictly gluten-free standpoint, the ingredient profile passes the test.

Nutritional Value

While MTN Dew is safe for a gluten-free diet, it is important to understand its nutritional profile. A standard 12-ounce can contains approximately 170 calories, all of which come from carbohydrates in the form of 46 grams of sugar. This is a significant amount, exceeding the American Heart Association's recommended daily limit for added sugar in a single serving.

The soda contains 0 grams of fat and 0 grams of protein. It is essentially liquid sugar and water with flavoring. The caffeine content is roughly 54 mg per 12 ounces, which is comparable to a cup of coffee but can be a concern for those sensitive to stimulants. If you are managing diabetes or looking to reduce caloric intake, MTN Dew should be consumed sparingly, regardless of its gluten-free status.