Are Fruit Pastilles Gluten Free

Fruit Pastilles have been a popular chewy sweet in the UK for many decades, cherished for their fruity flavours and soft, chewy texture. They are a common choice for sharing, party bags or simply enjoying as a quick sweet treat. With rising awareness of gluten intolerance and coeliac disease, many people are keen to know whether Fruit Pastilles are gluten free and safe to enjoy on a gluten-free diet. This article explores the ingredients, manufacturing practices and allergen information to provide clarity for those wondering about Fruit Pastilles and gluten.

What Are Fruit Pastilles Made Of
Fruit Pastilles are made from a blend of sugar, glucose syrup, fruit juices, fruit purees, and natural flavours. They are coated with a light dusting of sugar crystals to give them a slightly crunchy outer texture. Importantly, none of the core ingredients in Fruit Pastilles contain gluten or wheat derivatives. The chewy base is created from gelling agents such as gelatine and pectin, which are naturally gluten free. This makes Fruit Pastilles a treat that is gluten free by ingredient composition.

Manufacturing and Cross-Contamination Risks
While the ingredients themselves are gluten free, another consideration is the environment in which Fruit Pastilles are manufactured. Factories often handle multiple products, some of which may contain gluten. This raises the risk of cross-contamination, where traces of gluten could unintentionally be introduced during production or packaging. However, Fruit Pastilles are produced by large reputable manufacturers who adhere to strict allergen control procedures. These companies often label their products to inform consumers about possible allergen traces.

Gluten Free Labelling and Certification
Many packs of Fruit Pastilles carry gluten free labelling or certifications. This indicates that the product has been tested and meets regulatory standards for gluten content, typically less than 20 parts per million. Such certification is reassuring for people with coeliac disease who must avoid even tiny amounts of gluten. For those with milder gluten sensitivity, Fruit Pastilles generally pose no problem as they do not contain gluten ingredients and have low risk of contamination.

Suitability for People With Coeliac Disease or Gluten Intolerance
For people diagnosed with coeliac disease, strictly avoiding gluten is essential to prevent health complications. Thanks to their gluten free ingredients and careful manufacturing, Fruit Pastilles are generally considered safe for coeliacs. Those with gluten intolerance who may experience discomfort from gluten can also enjoy Fruit Pastilles without worry. As with all processed foods, it is recommended to check current packaging for gluten free logos and allergen advice to be certain.

Comparisons With Other Sweets
Fruit Pastilles stand out as a gluten free chewy sweet in a market where many confectionery products contain gluten in the form of wheat starch, barley malt or flavourings. Many traditional sweets such as some licorice, nougat or biscuit-based treats do contain gluten, so Fruit Pastilles offer a reliable alternative for those avoiding gluten. Their fruity flavour and chewy texture make them a favourite choice for those seeking gluten free sweets without compromising on taste.

Conclusion
So, are Fruit Pastilles gluten free? Yes, Fruit Pastilles are made from gluten free ingredients and are suitable for people with coeliac disease and gluten intolerance. They are often produced with careful allergen control and carry gluten free labelling to ensure safety. As with any packaged food, checking the label and current packaging is advisable. For anyone avoiding gluten, Fruit Pastilles offer a tasty, fruity, chewy treat that fits comfortably within a gluten free lifestyle.