Twizzlers are a favorite snack for many people. They are delicious and come in so many flavors, including cherry, watermelon, strawberry, and banana. If you’re on a gluten-free diet, however, you may be wondering if Twizzlers are safe for you to eat.
Unfortunately, they are not. As with many foods, Twizzlers contain wheat flour as an ingredient. Consequently, Twizzlers contain gluten and should be avoided by people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Luckily for you, this article discusses what Twizzlers are, some great gluten-free alternatives, and how to even make your homemade gluten-free Twizzlers.
What Are Twizzlers?
Twizzlers are a brand of licorice candy manufactured by The Hershey Company. They’re twisted in the middle, like a spring, and come in many flavors such as cherry, strawberry, and banana.
Twizzlers are a good source of carbohydrates, and they also contain small amounts of protein and fat. Each serving of Twizzlers contains 150 calories, 18g of sugar, 1g of protein, and 0.5g of fat.
Twizzlers are an American favorite because they are inexpensive and easy to find at most grocery stores or convenience stores. They are also good for snacking on while watching TV or reading a book because they do not melt easily like other types of candy when you expose them to heat or sunlight.
SEE: The Latest Texas Roadhouse Gluten-Free Menu
Are Twizzlers Gluten-Free?
No, Twizzlers are not gluten-free. The Twizzlers website shows a list of ingredients, and wheat flour (wheat flour contains gluten) is listed as one of the ingredients in Twizzlers.
It’s not uncommon for some brands of candy to contain wheat flour. Candy makers use wheat flour in their recipes because it helps prevent the crystallization of sugar and gives the candy a smooth texture.
But if you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, you need to avoid these types of candies altogether — and not just because they contain gluten. Wheat flour is also highly processed and contains many allergens that can cause severe allergic reactions in some people who eat it.
SEE: Check Out Jimmy John’s Gluten-Free Sandwiches
Why Do You Need Twizzlers in Your Diet?
They provide energy
Twizzlers are a great source of carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of fuel for energy production. The more carbohydrates you eat, the more energy you will have available to help you complete tasks throughout your day.
They taste great
Twizzlers have a very specific taste and texture that makes them different from other candies. The flavor is sweet but not too sweet, and there is a nice crunch to the center of each piece that adds extra texture to your snack.
They’re fun
Twizzlers are available in various flavors, such as cherry, strawberry, grape, banana, watermelon, and apple. They also make great party favors, especially for kids’ birthday parties.
They’re convenient
Twizzlers also come in some fun packaging options, including long pieces you can just tear off and eat. You can also find these treats at most convenience stores and grocery stores, so it is easy to grab them on your way home from work or school.
SEE: Get Free Food Coupon at Krispy Kreme
Gluten-Free Alternatives to Twizzlers
Nerds ropes
Nerds ropes feature the same sweet and tangy flavor as Nerds candies, but they come in long strands instead of the traditional circular shape. You can bite off pieces one by one or let them slowly melt on your tongue for an intense burst of flavor.
Blow pops
Blow pops are another chewy candy that comes in many different shapes and flavors. They’re sweet but not too sugary, so they’re great for people who need something sweet but don’t want something that will give them a sugar high.
Jolly Ranchers candy
Jolly Ranchers candy comes in lots of different flavors, including watermelon, lemonade, and cherry. They’re also chewy, like Twizzlers, and come in many different sizes and shapes, including rings.
Jelly beans
Jelly beans are another popular option among people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. They’re widely available and come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, cinnamon, lemon, and orange.
Gummy candies
Many types of gummy candies don’t contain wheat products, making them perfect for people who are sensitive to gluten. You can look for gummy candies that contain gelatin instead of wheat flour as an ingredient or look for varieties that claim to be “gluten-free.”
SEE: What You Need to Know Before Eating Snickers on a Gluten-Free Diet
Homemade Gluten-Free Twizzlers Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour (or any other gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 tsp xanthan gum
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 9 tbsp butter, melted
- 8 tbsp corn syrup (light or dark)
- 3 tbsp licorice extract
- 1 tbsp flavoring oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tsp honey
- 3 drops of red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine flour, salt, flavoring oil, licorice extract, xanthan gum, and food coloring in a small bowl.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine corn syrup, butter, sugar, milk, and honey, then stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes or until the mixture reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and then add the flour mixture.
- Mix well, then pour the candy into a baking pan or silicone mold(s).
- Let it cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before placing the candy on a flat surface.
- Cut the candy into 1/4-inch wide strips and then twist the strips on both ends to create a spiral twist.
- Wrap each twist in waxed or cellophane paper and serve.
SEE: Enjoy Tasty Meals on Arby’s Gluten-Free Menu
Are There Any Side Effects of Gluten-Free Twizzlers?
Yes, there are. The most common side effects of gluten-free Twizzlers are gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and indigestion.
These symptoms are usually not serious — they’re just inconvenient. However, if you experience any serious symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.
If you experience any side effects after eating gluten-free Twizzlers, it could be that you didn’t prepare or store the candy properly.
FAQs
Are Twizzlers healthy?
No, they’re not. Twizzlers are delicious, but they’re not exactly healthy. Twizzlers contain a lot of sugar and fat and not much other nutrition.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, rye, barley, Kamut, and triticale. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), eating foods that contain gluten can cause serious damage to their small intestines.
Where can you get Twizzlers?
You can get Twizzlers at most supermarkets and grocery stores in the candy section. Twizzlers are available in many countries around the world, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and Japan.
Conclusion
Twizzlers are the classic candy that you can’t say no to. They come in all different flavors, and they’re a fun snack to share with friends or eat on your own.
Unfortunately, Twizzlers contain gluten — so if you’re living with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, this is not a good choice for you.
If you are looking for a gluten-free alternative to Twizzlers, there are other options available. For example, Blow Pops and Nerds Ropes are popular candies that you can find at most grocery stores.
For a more exotic treat, try Jelly Beans, Jolly Ranchers Candy, or Gummy Candies. These chewy candies come in a wide variety of colors, and flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Thanks for reading.
Visit Cheffist for more information on gluten-free foods.
