Are Skittles Gluten-Free? A Parent’s Guide to Safe Candy for Celiacs

Updated: April 20th, 2025

Popping a Skittle is like unleashing a tiny flavor bomb, zesty green apple, tangy lemon, or wild cherry, each bite is a burst of color and fun. But if your child has celiac disease like my son does, that innocent rainbow bag comes with a big question mark: Are Skittles gluten-free, and are they safe for someone with celiac disease?

I’ve stood in candy aisles, turning packages over and second-guessing ingredient lists to protect my son’s health. So today, let’s break it all down: what’s really in Skittles, what risks you need to know about, and which certified gluten-free candy alternatives are worth keeping in your pantry.

Are Skittles Gluten-Free for Celiac Disease?

Here’s the short answer: Yes, most Skittles are technically gluten-free, they don’t contain gluten-based ingredients. According to Mars Wrigley (the manufacturer), classic Skittles flavors like Original, Wild Berry, and Sour do not include wheat, barley, or rye.

BUT… and this is a big one for families like ours: Skittles are not certified gluten-free. That means there’s a risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing, which can be a dealbreaker for anyone with celiac disease.

What’s in Skittles? Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll usually find on the label:

• Corn Syrup – A common sweetener, gluten-free
• Artificial Flavors – Fruity blends like cherry, lime, and melon berry
• Citric Acid – Adds tang
• Carnauba Wax – Keeps the candies shiny
• Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil – Adds smooth texture
• Tapioca Dextrin – A gluten-free binder (usually)
• Titanium Dioxide – Makes colors pop
• Sodium Citrate – Boosts flavor

These ingredients are gluten-free in their pure form, but it’s the facility risk that matters most.

Why Skittles Are Not Certified Gluten-Free

Although Skittles don’t contain gluten ingredients, Mars Wrigley does not test or certify them as gluten-free. Why?

• Cross-contamination: Skittles may be produced on lines shared with gluten-containing products.
• No third-party testing: Certification requires strict protocols and testing, which Skittles does not undergo.

For kids with celiac disease, even tiny traces of gluten can trigger a reaction, so this lack of certification matters.

How I Keep My Son Safe When Choosing Candy

Here’s how we navigate the candy aisle with confidence:

✅ Check Every Label

Even if you’ve bought it before, always read the packaging, formulations can change without notice.

✅ Stick to Certified Gluten-Free Candy

When in doubt, we choose only brands with third-party gluten-free certifications. Look for the GFCO or other recognized seals.

✅ Watch for Symptoms

If my son gets a stomachache or bloating after a snack, it’s a red flag, even if the ingredients looked safe.

✅ Reach Out to Brands

When unsure, we’ve contacted manufacturers like Mars Wrigley directly to ask about specific batches or flavors.

Best Certified Gluten-Free Candy Alternatives to Skittles

If Skittles make you nervous (and I don’t blame you), here are safer options we personally love and trust:

• Surf Sweets Jelly Beans – Fun, fruity, organic, and safe for celiacs.
• Starburst – Just as chewy and fruity, with some gluten-free labeling depending on the country.
• YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears – Certified gluten-free, organic, and allergen-friendly.
• Surf Sweets Organic Fruity Bears – Delicious, kid-approved, and made in a GF facility.
• Smart Sweets Sweet Fish – Low-sugar, gluten-free, and perfect for picky eaters.
• Unreal Candy Gems – A healthier Skittles alternative with organic ingredients and GF certification.
• Jelly Belly – Select lines (like Very Cherry) are certified gluten-free.

The Sweetest Ending: Gluten-Free Joy Without Worry

Skittles might be gluten-free by ingredients, but for families managing celiac disease, “probably safe” often isn’t good enough. That’s why we treat Skittles as an occasional treat, not a go-to.

Thankfully, there are so many fun, safe, certified gluten-free candies out there that taste just as good (if not better!). With a little label-checking and a lot of love, you can still treat your child, and their sweet tooth, without the gluten gamble.

Got a favorite gluten-free candy your family swears by? Let me know in the comments, I’m always on the hunt for new treats!

FAQs About Skittles & Gluten-Free Candy

Disclaimer: This post is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not substitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary guidance.