Is Wheat square crackers, wheat square Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look past the marketing on the box and go straight to the ingredient label. For Wheat square crackers, the evidence against a gluten-free claim is overwhelming right from the first line. The primary ingredient is organic whole wheat flour. While "whole wheat" is often touted as a healthy choice for the general population, it is strictly off-limits for anyone requiring a gluten-free diet. Wheat contains gliadin and glutenin proteins that trigger immune reactions in those with celiac disease.

It doesn't stop there. The recipe also utilizes organic enriched wheat flour. This is essentially a refined wheat flour that has had nutrients added back in, but the gluten content remains. Furthermore, the inclusion of organic wheat bran adds another layer of wheat-derived fiber, cementing the product's status as a wheat-based snack.

The most subtle, yet equally problematic ingredient is organic barley malt extract. Barley is a distinct gluten-containing grain. Malt extract is frequently used in crackers and cereals to provide a specific toasted flavor and sweetness. However, because barley contains gluten, its presence makes the product unsafe for those with gluten-related disorders. Additionally, while organic invert sugar syrup is generally gluten-free, it is often derived from enzymatically treated starch; in a product this heavy on wheat, it is safe to assume the enzymes used are not certified gluten-free, though the wheat and barley are the primary deal-breakers here.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Wheat square crackers offer a mix of standard snack characteristics. They are primarily a source of carbohydrates derived from the organic wheat flours. The presence of organic expeller pressed palm oil provides the fat content, which gives the crackers their texture but also contributes to the calorie count. You will also find organic cane sugar and organic invert sugar syrup listed. While these are organic forms of sugar, they still add to the total sugar content of the snack.

For those monitoring their sodium intake, the crackers contain salt and sodium bicarbonate. While not excessively high in sodium compared to some processed foods, it is still a contributing factor. If you are looking for a low-calorie, low-sugar snack, these crackers might not fit the bill perfectly due to the added sugars and fats, but they do provide some fiber from the whole wheat flour and bran.