Is The Complete Cookie-fied Bar-Cookies & Creme Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. The base of this bar is built on a protein blend of brown rice and pea protein, which is naturally gluten-free and provides a solid amino acid profile. The sweetness and binding come from tapioca syrup and organic agave syrup, both safe alternatives to wheat-based syrups.

However, the critical ingredient to scrutinize here is the organic whole grain oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they are almost always processed in facilities that also handle wheat. Unless the oats are specifically labeled as "Certified Gluten-Free," they carry a high risk of cross-contamination. The ingredient list here does not offer that certification.

Furthermore, the texture and flavor are derived from almonds and alkalized cocoa powder, which are safe. The "Cookies & Creme" aspect is achieved through gluten-free sugar cookie pieces (made with rice flour) and white chips. While the formulation avoids obvious gluten sources, the lack of a gluten-free seal on the oats makes this a 'proceed at your own risk' product for those with severe gluten allergies.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this bar is designed as a calorie-dense protein source rather than a light snack. It packs a significant amount of energy, largely derived from the tapioca syrup and agave, which are high on the glycemic index. While it offers a decent protein count thanks to the brown rice and pea blend, the sugar content is notable.

The inclusion of palm kernel and palm oil in the white chips contributes to the saturated fat content. While not inherently 'bad' in moderation, it is something to monitor if you are watching your heart health. The inulin (chicory root fiber) is a positive addition, offering prebiotic benefits and helping to keep the net carb count slightly lower than the total sugar would suggest. This bar fits well into a high-calorie diet plan for muscle recovery, but it is not a low-sugar option for general weight loss.