Introduction
If you follow a gluten-free diet, finding appropriate snacks and treats can be a challenge. While there are many options that fit the bill, not all candy bars are gluten-free. Baby Ruth is one of the most popular candy bars out there, but are Baby Ruth bars gluten-free? In this article, we’ll explore the gluten-free status of Baby Ruth bars, share a personal story of someone who enjoys eating them, offer a recipe for homemade gluten-free Baby Ruth bars, compare Baby Ruth with other gluten-free candy bars, and provide our recommendations for the best gluten-free Baby Ruth bar on the market.
Exploring the Gluten-Free Status of Baby Ruth
To determine whether Baby Ruth bars are gluten-free, we need to look at the ingredients used in their recipe. According to the official website of Baby Ruth, the ingredients in a typical bar include sugar, roasted peanuts, corn syrup, chocolate, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, skim milk, whey, maltodextrin, and salt. While none of these ingredients contain gluten explicitly, maltodextrin is a potential source of gluten, as it’s often derived from wheat. However, most maltodextrin used in the food industry is made with corn or rice, ensuring it’s gluten-free.
Another factor that can affect the gluten-free status of Baby Ruth bars is cross-contamination during the manufacturing process. In other words, even if the ingredients themselves are gluten-free, they can become contaminated with gluten if they come in contact with other products containing gluten in the same facility. To address this issue, many companies have implemented policies and procedures to prevent cross-contamination and ensure their gluten-free products are safe for celiac and gluten-sensitive individuals.
So, are Baby Ruth bars gluten-free? The answer is yes, as long as they’re made with gluten-free maltodextrin and produced in a gluten-free facility. Nestle, the company that makes Baby Ruth bars, has confirmed that their gluten-free products are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility and undergo regular testing to ensure compliance with the FDA’s gluten-free labeling rule. Therefore, if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, you can enjoy Baby Ruth bars without worry.
Personal Story of Someone Who Follows a Gluten-Free Diet
To provide a human perspective on the topic, we talked to Sarah, who follows a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease. Sarah loves Baby Ruth bars but was initially hesitant to eat them because of the potential gluten risk. However, after researching the gluten-free status of Baby Ruth and feeling confident about the safety of the product, she started enjoying them again. Sarah says that having access to gluten-free candy bars like Baby Ruth is essential for her mental health, as it allows her to feel included and satisfied when everyone else is indulging in sweets.
Sarah’s tip for other gluten-free individuals who want to enjoy Baby Ruth bars is to read the label carefully and check the manufacturing location to ensure the product is truly gluten-free. She also suggests carrying gluten-free snacks with you at all times, so you have something to eat in case of emergencies.
Recipe for Homemade Gluten-Free Baby Ruth Bars
If you want to enjoy the taste of Baby Ruth bars but prefer making everything from scratch, here’s a homemade recipe for gluten-free Baby Ruth bars.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
– 1/2 cup gluten-free pretzels, crushed
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/3 cup chocolate chips
– 1/3 cup roasted peanuts
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix the oats and crushed pretzels.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until melted and combined.
3. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oats and pretzels and mix until everything is coated.
4. Press the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, then pour over the mixture in the pan.
6. Sprinkle with roasted peanuts and let cool until the chocolate is set.
7. Cut into bars and store in the fridge for up to a week.
Comparison of Baby Ruth Bars with Other Gluten-Free Candy Bars
While Baby Ruth bars are gluten-free, there are many other candy bars on the market that cater to the gluten-free crowd. Some popular options include Snickers, Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, M&Ms, and Butterfinger. When comparing these bars, it’s essential to consider the ingredients, manufacturing process, and taste.
Snickers is a classic candy bar that’s gluten-free, except for the fun-sized version. The bar contains nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate, making it a satisfying treat for anyone craving something sweet. However, Snickers are produced in a facility that may also process wheat, so cross-contamination is possible.
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars are another gluten-free alternative to Baby Ruth. Hershey’s uses gluten-free ingredients and has rigorous quality control measures to ensure their products are celiac-safe. The candy bar is made with simple ingredients like sugar, milk, and cocoa to create a delicious, creamy, and chocolatey treat.
M&M’s are gluten-free except for the crispy and pretzel varieties, which contain wheat ingredients. The classic milk chocolate M&M’s are a favorite among gluten-free eaters and provide a quick and convenient snack fix.
Butterfinger bars are gluten-free, but they contain corn flakes, which can be a source of gluten. However, the manufacturer claims to use pure wheat flour to make the corn flakes, so the gluten content is negligible. Butterfinger bars have a crispy, crunchy texture and a unique peanut buttery flavor that sets them apart from other candy bars.
Product Review of Gluten-Free Baby Ruth Bars
Now that we know that Baby Ruth bars are gluten-free let’s take a look at some of the available options on the market. Below are some of the gluten-free Baby Ruth bars we’ve reviewed and our opinions on them.
– Baby Ruth Fun Size Bars: These bite-sized bars are perfect for snacking on the go. They’re gluten-free and taste just as good as the regular-sized bars. The only downside is that they’re not sold in large quantities.
– Baby Ruth Miniatures: These tiny versions of the Baby Ruth bar are great for sharing or portion control. They have the same great taste and texture as the original bar and are available in large bags.
– Baby Ruth Share Pack: This pack includes six individually wrapped Baby Ruth bars, making it ideal for sharing with friends or loved ones. The bars are gluten-free and taste just as good as ever.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baby Ruth bars are gluten-free and safe for celiac and gluten-sensitive individuals to eat, as long as they’re made with gluten-free maltodextrin and produced in a gluten-free facility. Eating gluten-free candy bars is essential for mental well-being and feeling included in social events. The recipe for homemade gluten-free Baby Ruth bars is a perfect alternative if you prefer making everything from scratch. By comparing Baby Ruth with other gluten-free candy bars and reviewing different products, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and dietary restrictions. We hope this article has provided you with helpful insights and information to enrich your gluten-free diet.
