Does Nutrageous contain dairy or gluten?

Nutrageous contains dairy (milk powder, whey, lactose) but is gluten-free. It is safe for Celiacs but not for those with a dairy allergy.

Is Nutrageous good for weight loss?

No. It is high in calories (over 250 per bar) and sugar, making it unsuitable for a calorie-restricted weight loss diet.

Where can I buy Nutrageous?

Nutrageous is available at most major retailers, including Walmart, Target, and convenience stores, as well as online via Amazon.

Is Nutrageous safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for kids in moderation. However, it contains peanuts and dairy, and is high in sugar, so portion control is recommended.

Is Nutrageous Gluten Free?

Yes, Nutrageous is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided by the manufacturer, this candy bar does not contain wheat, barley, rye, or oats. However, while it is safe for those avoiding gluten, it is a calorie-dense treat packed with sugar and fat.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look at the source of ingredients rather than just the final product. The primary reason Nutrageous is considered gluten-free is that its structural components rely on peanuts, sugar, and vegetable oils rather than wheat flour. The coating is a standard confectionery blend of sugar, cocoa butter, and vegetable oil, none of which inherently contain gluten.

However, there are two major allergen flags here. First, the bar contains a significant amount of milk ingredients (skimmed milk powder, lactose, whey). This makes it unsuitable for anyone with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. Second, it contains soya lecithin. While soy is naturally gluten-free, it is a common allergen often processed in facilities that also handle wheat. The presence of peanuts (26%) and peanut butter (17%) is safe regarding gluten, but presents a high risk for nut allergies.

One specific ingredient to note is the caramel filling. Caramel is typically made from sugar and dairy. In this case, it uses high fructose corn syrup and whey powder. Corn syrup is naturally gluten-free, but those with Celiac disease sometimes prefer to avoid corn derivatives due to processing concerns. That said, there are no flags for gluten-containing grains in the ingredient list.

Nutritional Value

Nutrageous is designed as an indulgent treat, not a health food. A single serving contains a high amount of total fat and saturated fat, largely derived from the palm oil and shea oil in the coating and the natural fat content of the peanuts. If you are following a low-fat diet, this bar will likely exceed your daily limits quickly.

The sugar content is also very high, coming from added sugar, corn syrup, and lactose. This causes a rapid spike in blood glucose levels. While it provides a quick burst of energy, it is not suitable for those managing diabetes or insulin resistance. The protein content is moderate due to the peanuts and milk proteins, but the calorie count (typically around 250-270 per bar) is high for such a small serving size. It fits into a diet only as an occasional 'cheat' treat.