Is Skinny Rice Bar Almonds & Blueberries Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is safe for a gluten-free diet, we have to look beyond the marketing claims and inspect the source ingredients. For the Skinny Rice Bar Almonds & Blueberries, the foundation is built entirely on Rice Flour and Puffed Brown Rice. Unlike oat-based bars, which carry a high risk of cross-contamination with wheat during harvesting and processing, rice is naturally gluten-free and is processed in dedicated facilities more often than not.

The sweeteners used here—Cane Sugar and Organic Brown Rice Syrup—are also naturally free of gluten. While some consumers worry about hidden gluten in syrups, these rice-based sweeteners are safe. The inclusion of Dry Roasted Almonds and Dried Blueberries adds texture and flavor without introducing allergens or gluten. However, it is worth noting that the blueberries are sweetened with cane sugar, which contributes to the total sugar content of the bar.

Finally, the binding agents and flavorings are safe. Rice Bran and Palm Oil are used to hold the bar together and provide moisture, neither of which contain gluten. The Natural Flavor is a generic term, but in the context of a gluten-free product like this, it typically refers to fruit extracts or vanilla rather than gluten-containing additives. Therefore, the verdict is a definitive YES; this bar is gluten-free.

Nutritional Value

While being gluten-free makes this bar accessible, its nutritional profile determines if it fits a healthy lifestyle. A standard bar contains approximately 130 to 140 calories, which is relatively low for a snack bar. However, the primary ingredients are refined carbohydrates (Rice Flour and Puffed Brown Rice). These are high-glycemic index foods that can spike blood sugar rapidly, especially since they are paired with Cane Sugar and Rice Syrup.

Regarding fats and protein, the Almonds provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a modest amount of protein (usually around 3g per bar). However, the protein content is not high enough to classify this as a meal replacement or a post-workout recovery bar. It is best viewed as a light, low-fat snack. If you are strictly counting sugar intake, be aware that the added sugars from the syrup and the dried fruit can add up to roughly 8-10g per serving.