Is Nut & Seed Bar Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I scrutinize every label to ensure safety for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The primary ingredients in this bar are almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. These are naturally gluten-free whole foods, forming a safe and nutritious base.

For binding and texture, the formula uses tapioca fiber and non-GMO corn fiber. Both are derived from gluten-free sources. The sweetener profile relies on allulose and monk fruit extract, which are excellent sugar alternatives that do not impact blood sugar significantly and contain no gluten.

Regarding the chocolate flavor, alkalized cocoa powder and unsweetened chocolate are used. These are naturally gluten-free. However, it is important to note that the 'natural flavor' and lecithin (often soy-based) are processed ingredients. While they are generally safe, highly sensitive individuals should be aware that lecithin is derived from soy or sunflower and is gluten-free. There are no flags for gluten cross-contamination based on the provided ingredient list.

Nutritional Value

This bar is designed as a low-carb, high-fat option. The primary fat sources are palm kernel oil and coconut oil. These provide saturated fats, which are stable at room temperature but should be consumed in moderation. The inclusion of mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) acts as a natural preservative to prevent the nuts and seeds from going rancid.

In terms of carbohydrates, the use of allulose keeps the net carb count low, making this bar suitable for a Keto diet. The protein content comes from the nuts and seeds, offering a decent satiety factor. However, because it is calorie-dense due to the high fat and nut content, portion control is key if you are strictly monitoring your calorie intake for weight loss.