Is Simply Granola Oars, Apples, Cranberries and Almonds Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the safety of a granola product for a gluten-free diet, the first place to look is the grain source. In this product, the primary red flag is the inclusion of whole grain rolled wheat. While the product name emphasizes "Oats," the formula is a blend of oats and wheat, making it unsuitable for a gluten-free lifestyle.

There is also a secondary concern regarding the oats themselves. Even if a product were made without wheat, standard oats are frequently processed on the same equipment as gluten-containing grains. This leads to cross-contamination. However, in this case, the wheat is added directly as an ingredient, not just a risk of cross-contamination.

Additionally, the ingredient list includes whey and nonfat dry milk. This confirms that the product contains dairy. It is not suitable for those following a vegan diet or anyone with a milk allergy. The presence of almonds also flags this product as a nut allergen risk.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this granola is a calorie-dense food. A standard serving contains a significant amount of sugar, derived from brown sugar, sugar, and honey. While these provide quick energy, they also spike blood sugar levels, which may not be ideal for those managing insulin resistance or looking for low-sugar breakfast options.

The fat content is moderate, coming from canola oil and sunflower oil. While these are plant-based oils, the overall caloric density means portion control is essential. On the positive side, the inclusion of whole grain rolled oats and almonds provides dietary fiber and protein, which helps with satiety. However, the high sugar content somewhat offsets these benefits.