Is Original Crackers Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the first thing I look for in a cracker is the primary structural ingredient. In Original Crackers, the very first ingredient listed is Wheat flour. This is the definitive factor that disqualifies the product from being gluten-free. Wheat flour contains gluten-forming proteins (gliadin and glutenin) that give the cracker its texture, but they are strictly off-limits for those on a gluten-free diet.

It doesn't stop there. The formulation also includes Wheat germ and Wheat bran. While these are nutritious components of the wheat kernel, they are derived entirely from wheat. Even if the flour were hypothetically removed, the addition of these specific wheat parts ensures the product is unsafe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

There is also a risk of hidden gluten sources. The ingredient Hydrolyzed soya protein is generally safe, but in manufacturing facilities that process wheat, soy can often be cross-contaminated. However, with the explicit inclusion of three different wheat ingredients, cross-contamination is the least of your worries here—it is a wheat product through and through.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Original Crackers are a calorie-dense carbohydrate source. A standard serving typically contains between 130-150 calories, derived mostly from the Vegetable oil (coconut oil) and refined Wheat flour. While coconut oil is a trendy ingredient, it is high in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation.

The product contains Cane sugar, contributing to the total carbohydrate count. For those monitoring blood sugar levels, these crackers have a moderate glycemic index due to the refined flour and sugar combination. They provide quick energy but lack the fiber density of whole-grain alternatives to keep you full for long periods.