Maltesers are one of those treats that walk a delightful tightrope between feeling indulgent and deceptively light. Their crispy malt centre and smooth chocolate shell make them a go-to snack for everything from cinema nights to cake toppings. But for anyone following a gluten-free diet, that satisfying crunch comes with a very important question. Do Maltesers have gluten?

What Goes Into a Malteser

Maltesers are made with a unique combination of ingredients that create their iconic texture. The airy centre is crafted from a malted milk base that includes wheat flour, skimmed milk powder, glucose syrup, sugar and malt extract. The entire piece is then coated in a smooth layer of milk chocolate, which adds sugar, cocoa solids and milk fats into the mix. While the word “malt” might already ring a few warning bells for those avoiding gluten, it is the wheat flour in the centre that confirms it. Maltesers do contain gluten.

Why Wheat Flour Means No for Gluten-Free Diets

Wheat flour is one of the primary sources of gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. For people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, even small amounts of gluten can cause serious discomfort or long-term health issues. Because wheat flour is a key ingredient in the malt centre of Maltesers, they are not safe for people following a gluten-free diet. It is not simply a matter of cross-contamination or trace exposure. Gluten is very much part of the Maltesers recipe.

Does the Malt Contain Gluten Too

Yes, malt extract, another core ingredient in Maltesers, typically comes from barley, which also contains gluten. Although the gluten content in malt extract can vary, it is generally not considered safe for people with coeliac disease. Even where the amount is small, it contributes to the overall gluten profile of the product. When combined with wheat flour, there is no doubt that Maltesers fall firmly into the gluten-containing category.

Do Maltesers Have a Gluten-Free Label

Maltesers do not carry a gluten-free label on their packaging, nor are they marketed as suitable for people with gluten intolerance. The packaging clearly lists wheat flour as one of the ingredients, and while allergen advice often varies depending on country and packaging size, wheat is usually highlighted. This makes it easier for consumers to identify the presence of gluten at a glance. However, it also confirms that Maltesers are not suitable for anyone needing to avoid gluten for medical or dietary reasons.

Are There Gluten-Free Alternatives

Thankfully, for fans of that crisp-chocolatey combination, there are gluten-free alternatives to Maltesers on the market. Some brands now offer chocolate-coated puffed rice balls or honeycomb bites that mimic the texture and lightness of a Malteser without using wheat flour or barley malt. These can often be found in health food shops or specialist free-from sections in supermarkets. While the flavour may differ slightly, many of these treats still deliver the sweet crunch that Malteser lovers are looking for.

Can You Eat Maltesers on a Low-Gluten Diet

If you are reducing gluten for personal reasons rather than for medical necessity, you may be tempted to include Maltesers in your diet. However, it is important to understand that they do not just contain traces of gluten. They include actual gluten-rich ingredients as part of their recipe. That means they are not appropriate even for those following a reduced-gluten lifestyle, unless wheat is completely tolerated. Always check the packaging and speak to a dietitian or health professional if you are unsure.

Final Thoughts

So, do Maltesers have gluten? Yes, they do. The presence of wheat flour and malt extract means they are not suitable for coeliacs or anyone following a strict gluten-free diet. While they remain one of the nation’s favourite chocolatey treats, that signature crunch sadly comes at a cost for those with gluten sensitivities. Luckily, gluten-free alternatives are becoming more widely available, offering a delicious substitute that lets you enjoy something similar without the worry. Until then, it is always best to read the label and know exactly what is going into every mouthful.

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