Is Zachary multi coloredcoated in sugar fruit Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist looking at the label for Zachary multi coloredcoated in sugar fruit, the ingredient list itself is surprisingly simple regarding grains. The primary components are sugar and corn syrup, which act as the sweeteners and structure of the candy. These are naturally gluten-free. The texture is likely derived from modified food starch; in American confectionery, this is almost exclusively derived from corn, making it safe for a gluten-free diet.

The tartness comes from citric acid and sodium citrate, standard food acids that pose no gluten risk. The color profile is achieved through a mix of artificial dyes, specifically FD&C Yellow #6, Red #40, Yellow #5, and Blue #1. These synthetic colors are gluten-free. The flavor profile is listed as natural and artificial flavor, a catch-all term that is generally safe in hard candies as it usually refers to vanillin or fruit esters rather than gluten-derived flavorings.

However, the critical issue lies at the bottom of the label in the allergen statement. The manufacturer notes that the product is manufactured in a facility that processes products containing soy, milk, egg, wheat, and peanut/tree nut ingredients. This is the definitive flag. In industrial candy manufacturing, shared equipment (conveyor belts, hoppers, coating pans) can lead to trace amounts of wheat flour transferring from other products (like cookies or crackers) to this candy. For a casual gluten avoider, this might be acceptable, but for anyone with a medical necessity to avoid gluten, this cross-contact risk is too high.

Nutritional Value

Examining the nutrition facts for a serving size of two pieces (26g), this candy is a pure energy source with little nutritional density. You are consuming 90 calories, which is relatively standard for a small serving of hard candy, but it is composed entirely of sugar. There are 15g of total sugars, and the label confirms that 100% of these sugars are added sugars, accounting for 30% of the daily value based on a standard 2,000-calorie diet.

From a macronutrient perspective, the product is devoid of fat (0g) and protein (0g). It contains 10% of the daily value for carbohydrates, entirely from sugar. While it is fat-free, the high sugar content means it will cause a rapid spike in blood glucose. It is not a nutrient-dense food and should be treated strictly as a confectionary treat rather than a source of sustenance.