Is Sablé Nature sans sucres Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist looking at the label, the verdict is clear immediately. The first ingredient listed is Farine de blé (Wheat Flour), making up a massive 58.4% of the recipe. This is the structural base of the biscuit, providing the classic 'sablé' texture. Because wheat is a prohibited grain on the gluten-free diet, this single ingredient disqualifies the product entirely.

The product uses Maltitols d'origine végétale as a sweetener. Maltitol is a sugar alcohol used to provide sweetness and bulk without spiking blood sugar levels the way regular sugar does. It is derived from starch, but in this context, it is not a source of gluten. However, it is worth noting that maltitol can cause digestive discomfort in some people if consumed in large quantities.

Looking further down the list, we see amidon de blé (wheat starch) and fibre de blé (wheat fiber). These are secondary wheat derivatives used to improve texture and fiber content. While the main culprit is the wheat flour, these ingredients reinforce that the product is entirely wheat-based. There are no oats or rye listed, which eliminates the risk of specific grain cross-contamination, but the presence of pure wheat flour is the definitive factor.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, the 'sans sucres' claim holds up. By swapping sugar for maltitol, the biscuit significantly lowers its glycemic index compared to a standard shortbread cookie. This makes it a more suitable option for those monitoring their blood glucose levels or looking to reduce added sugars.

However, being sugar-free does not automatically mean 'diet-friendly'. The product still contains huile de colza (rapeseed oil), contributing to the fat content necessary for that crumbly texture. While the calorie count is likely lower than a traditional sugary biscuit, it remains an energy-dense processed food. It fits well into a low-sugar diet, but strictly from a calorie perspective, portion control is still essential.