What gluten-free candy can I have?

If you're living with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, finding delicious, safe treats can be a challenge. Candy, with its bright colours and playful shapes, seems harmless, but not all are created equal when it comes to gluten. Thankfully, there’s a growing range of gluten-free candy available, including gluten-free gummies and candy without gelatin, meaning you don’t have to miss out.

This guide will walk you through the world of candies gluten free, how to read labels, what to avoid, and the best sweet treats that are safe (and actually taste good). We’ll also highlight Silky Gem’s colourful, gelatin-free confections, which are a perfect addition to your gluten-free stash.

Understanding Gluten in Candy

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, even trace amounts can cause serious issues.

Candy might seem like it wouldn’t contain gluten, after all, it’s sugar, right? But gluten can sneak in through:

Wheat-based glucose syrup

Malt (from barley)

Modified food starch (if from wheat)

Cross-contamination during manufacturing

Gelatin that’s been processed with gluten-containing stabilisers

Reading labels carefully is key, and whenever in doubt, choose candies clearly marked “gluten-free.”

Gluten Free Gummies: What to Look For

Gummy candies are one of the trickiest categories when it comes to gluten. Some gummies use wheat-derived glucose syrup or are made in facilities that handle gluten-based products, increasing the risk of contamination.

What makes a gummy candy gluten-free?

• It uses corn-based or tapioca-based glucose syrup instead of wheat.
• It's processed in a certified gluten-free facility.
• It doesn’t contain barley malt or wheat-based stabilisers.

FAQs about gluten-free gummies:

Q: Are Haribo gummies gluten-free?

A: Some are, but not all. For example, Haribo Goldbears made in the U.S. are considered gluten-free, while those made in Europe may contain wheat.

Q: Can I eat sour gummy candies?

A: Some sour gummies use wheat starch for coating. Always check the packaging.

Silky Gem’s gummies and jellies are naturally gluten-free and gelatin-free, made from plant-based ingredients like agar agar, making them safe for both coeliacs and vegans.

Candy Without Gelatin: A Better, Plant-Based Choice

Another consideration is gelatin, which is often made from pork or beef byproducts — and while not a gluten issue, it’s a concern for vegetarians, vegans, and some religious diets. Some gelatin products may also have processing agents that introduce gluten.

Silky Gem specialises in candy without gelatin, using agar and other seaweed-based gelling agents to create beautifully layered jelly confections.

Common Questions:

Q: What’s the difference between gelatin and agar?

A: Gelatin is animal-derived, while agar is plant-based (from red algae). Agar is naturally gluten-free and has a firmer, cleaner texture.

Q: Is candy without gelatin better for you?

A: It depends on your dietary goals, but for those avoiding animal products or looking for a cleaner label, gelatin-free candy is often a better choice.

Popular Candies Gluten Free Consumers Can Enjoy

There are many mass-market and boutique brands now offering gluten-free options. Here's a helpful list:

Well-known brands offering gluten-free candy:

Skittles

• Smarties (U.S. version)
• Swedish Fish
• Jelly Belly
• Dots
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• M&M’s (most varieties)
• Tootsie Rolls
• Airheads

✅ Always double-check the label, as ingredients and manufacturing processes can change.

Spotting Hidden Gluten in Candy

Here’s what to be aware of when scanning a label:

Silky Gem Is Your Safe & Beautiful Option

Silky Gem is committed to producing high-quality confections that are both stunning and inclusive. Their jelly-based candies are:

• Gluten-free

• Gelatin-free

• Vegan-friendly

• Artisan-made

Each candy is a gem-like piece of edible art, handcrafted using natural colours and flavours. Whether you're treating yourself or giving a gift, Silky Gem offers peace of mind and flavour in equal measure.

So, what gluten-free candy can you have? The short answer is: more than you might think. From mainstream brands to boutique offerings like Silky Gem, there are delicious options out there that don’t compromise your health or your tastebuds.