Is Pepperidge farm crackers cheddar Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why these crackers are off-limits for a gluten-free diet, we need to look at the flour blend. The first ingredient listed is whole wheat flour, followed immediately by enriched wheat flour. Both of these are derived from wheat and contain gluten proteins (gliadin and glutenin) that trigger immune responses in sensitive individuals.

It is also important to note that the cheddar cheese blend used here is safe regarding gluten, but it does contain milk. This makes the product unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. The inclusion of autolyzed yeast extract is a common flavor enhancer, and while it is usually gluten-free, in this context, it is simply another component of a wheat-based product.

There is no mention of oats in the ingredient list, which is a common source of cross-contamination. However, because the primary ingredients are pure wheat, cross-contamination is irrelevant—the product is intentionally made with gluten-containing grains.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Pepperidge farm crackers cheddar offer a standard profile for a processed snack cracker. They provide a source of carbohydrates for quick energy, largely derived from the enriched wheat flour. The fat content comes from a blend of canola and/or sunflower oil, which are healthier unsaturated fats compared to palm oil or hydrogenated oils.

Regarding specific macros, these crackers are relatively moderate in calories but can add up quickly if you eat multiple servings. The cheddar cheese contributes to the sodium content, which is typical for savory snacks. They do not offer significant fiber or protein compared to whole-food alternatives like nuts or seeds.