Are Peeps gluten-free?

If you are one of the many people who are gluten-free or have celiac disease, you might be wondering if Peeps are safe for you to eat. Peeps are a popular marshmallow candy that is often consumed during Easter, but can also be found year-round. In this article, we will explore whether or not Peeps are gluten-free and what you should know about consuming them.

What Are Peeps?

Peeps are a marshmallow candy that is shaped like chicks, bunnies, and other Easter-themed figures. They are made by Just Born Quality Confections, which is a family-owned candy manufacturer that has been in business since 1923. Peeps come in a variety of colors and flavors, including the original yellow marshmallow flavor, as well as strawberry, blue raspberry, and more.

Are Peeps Gluten-Free?

The short answer is that it depends on the flavor of Peeps that you are consuming. According to the Just Born Quality Confections website, most Peeps flavors are gluten-free. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

For example, Peeps that are flavored like cookies and cream or contain cookie pieces are not gluten-free. This is because the cookies used in these Peeps contain wheat flour, which is a source of gluten. Additionally, Peeps that are coated in chocolate or contain a chocolate filling may not be gluten-free, as many types of chocolate contain gluten as an ingredient.

If you are unsure whether a particular flavor of Peeps is gluten-free, be sure to check the label and ingredients list carefully. You can also contact Just Born Quality Confections directly to ask about the gluten content of their products.

What Is Gluten?

Gluten is a type of protein that is found in certain grains, such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is responsible for giving bread and other baked goods their chewy texture and is also used as a thickener in many processed foods.

For people with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. In some cases, gluten consumption can also cause long-term damage to the digestive system.

Gluten-Free Alternatives to Peeps

If you are gluten-free and still want to enjoy a marshmallow treat, there are several gluten-free alternatives to Peeps that you can try. Many brands make gluten-free marshmallows that are free from wheat, barley, and rye. These can be used in recipes or eaten on their own as a sweet treat.

Another option is to make your own marshmallows at home using gluten-free ingredients. There are many recipes available online that use alternative flours, such as rice flour or almond flour, to make gluten-free marshmallows.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Peeps can be a fun and tasty treat for those who are gluten-free, as long as you choose the right flavor. Most Peeps flavors are gluten-free, but be sure to check the label and ingredients list before consuming them. If you are unsure about the gluten content of a particular flavor of Peeps, you can contact Just Born Quality Confections directly to ask.

If you are gluten-free and still want to enjoy a marshmallow treat, there are many gluten-free alternatives to Peeps that you can try. Whether you choose to buy gluten-free marshmallows from the store or make your own at home, there are many delicious options available.

FAQs