Is Rice Krispies Treats Double Chocolatey Chunk Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and straight at the formulation. The verdict here is clear: this product contains gluten. The smoking gun is found early in the ingredient list within the toasted rice cereal itself.

The specific ingredient flagged is malt flavor. Malt is almost exclusively derived from barley, a grain that contains gluten. In the manufacturing of Rice Krispies, malt flavoring is used to provide that distinctive, slightly savory taste that balances the sweetness. However, for anyone on a gluten-free diet, this ingredient renders the product unsafe.

Furthermore, while the chocolate chunks and cocoa are generally gluten-free, the natural and artificial flavors can sometimes be a gray area in food science. While unlikely to contain gluten in this context, the presence of malt makes the distinction irrelevant. It is also worth noting that this product contains nonfat milk and whey, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.

Nutritional Value

Nutritionally, the Double Chocolatey Chunk variety is a significant departure from the original marshmallow treats. A single serving (1 pouch, typically 3 bars) contains approximately 180 calories, with a heavy concentration of added sugars—around 16 grams per serving.

The fat content is moderate but relies heavily on vegetable oils and hydrogenated palm kernel oil. While the hydrogenation has been modified to reduce trans fats, these are still processed fats. The caloric density is high relative to the volume, meaning these bars provide quick energy but very little satiety or nutritional value in terms of fiber or protein. For those monitoring sugar intake, this product would consume a large portion of the daily recommended limit in just one pouch.