Does Shark Friends contain dairy or gluten?

No, Shark Friends are free from dairy and gluten. The ingredients list does not include milk, wheat, or soy derivatives.

Is Shark Friends good for weight loss?

No, Shark Friends are high in sugar and corn syrup. While they are fat-free, the high calorie and sugar content makes them unsuitable for most weight loss plans.

Where can I buy Shark Friends?

Shark Friends are widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online through Amazon and candy specialty websites.

Is Shark Friends safe for kids?

Yes, Shark Friends are marketed as a kid-friendly snack. They are free from common allergens like peanuts and gluten, but due to the high sugar content, they should be eaten in moderation.

Is Shark Friends Gluten Free?

Yes, Shark Friends gummies are gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye present in the recipe. These fruity, shark-shaped treats are generally safe for those avoiding gluten, but there are other nutritional factors to consider before grabbing a bag.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a candy is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look for obvious offenders like wheat flour or malt. In the case of Shark Friends, the primary structural ingredients are derived from non-gluten sources. The base consists of Apple Juice from Concentrate and Corn Syrup, which are naturally free of gluten. The gelling agent used here is Gelatin (Pork), which is a protein derived from animal collagen and is a safe alternative to wheat-based starches often found in older candy recipes.

Another ingredient that often raises questions is Food Starch - Modified. While this can be sourced from wheat, in the context of US food labeling, if the starch were wheat-derived, it would typically be declared as 'Modified Food Starch (Wheat)' or the allergen would be clearly listed. Since no such warning appears, it is highly likely sourced from corn or potato. Furthermore, the vibrant colors come from fruit and vegetable juices like Black Carrot Juice and Blueberry Juice, and extracts like Spirulina and Paprika Oleoresin. None of these pose a gluten risk.

However, it is important to note that while the ingredients themselves are gluten-free, cross-contamination is always a possibility in facilities that process multiple food products. If you have Celiac disease or a severe gluten sensitivity, you should always check the packaging for specific allergen warnings regarding shared equipment.

Nutritional Value

While Shark Friends pass the gluten test, they are still a candy and should be consumed in moderation. The primary ingredients by weight are sweeteners: Corn Syrup and Sugar. This places them firmly in the 'treat' category rather than a health food. The first three ingredients listed are apple juice concentrate, corn syrup, and sugar, indicating a high sugar content which contributes to the calorie count.

Regarding dietary restrictions beyond gluten, Shark Friends are fat-free, which is a plus for those monitoring fat intake. However, the high sugar content makes them less suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets. For individuals monitoring blood sugar levels, the combination of corn syrup and sugar can cause a rapid spike. As a sweet treat, they offer a bit of Vitamin C (via Ascorbic Acid), but they should not be relied upon for nutritional needs.