Outshine Bars have become a go-to frozen treat for many people seeking a refreshing and fruit-forward snack. Whether you’re cooling off during a hot summer day or looking for a guilt-free dessert, these bars offer a wide range of flavors made with real fruit or fruit juice. But for those with dietary restrictions or food sensitivities, especially those following a gluten-free diet, a common question arises: are Outshine Bars gluten free? Understanding what’s inside your food is essential, and for people avoiding gluten due to celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or a personal choice, it’s important to know which frozen snacks are safe to consume. Let’s explore the ingredients, certifications, and varieties of Outshine Bars to answer this question fully and clearly.
What Are Outshine Bars?
Outshine Bars are a line of frozen fruit bars made by Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc., which is owned by Froneri, a global ice cream company. These bars are typically available in the frozen dessert section of supermarkets and come in a wide variety of flavors such as strawberry, mango, pineapple, grape, lime, and coconut. There are also yogurt-based Outshine Bars and even some creamy fruit and dairy blends.
These bars are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream treats. They are often praised for being made with real fruit or fruit juice and for having no high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, or artificial flavors. However, for individuals with gluten sensitivity, understanding whether these bars contain gluten is more important than just their calorie count or fruit content.
Are Outshine Bars Gluten Free?
Yes, most Outshine Bars are gluten free. The company has indicated that many of its fruit bar varieties are made without any gluten-containing ingredients. This means that they do not include wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains in their formulas. However, not every product in the Outshine lineup carries a certified gluten-free label, so it’s essential to read packaging carefully.
Understanding Gluten Free on Packaging
Just because a product doesn’t contain gluten ingredients doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe for someone with celiac disease. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that any product labeled as ‘gluten free’ must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is considered a safe threshold for most people with gluten sensitivity. Outshine Bars that carry this label meet these requirements, but others that do not explicitly say gluten free may be at risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing.
Which Outshine Bars Are Typically Gluten Free?
While it’s always smart to check the current ingredient list and allergen information on each box, the following Outshine varieties are generally considered gluten free:
- Outshine Fruit Bars (Strawberry, Grape, Lime, Mango, Pineapple)
- Outshine No Sugar Added Fruit Bars
- Outshine Organic Fruit Bars
- Outshine Simply Indulgent Bars (check individual flavors)
- Outshine Coconut Water Bars (subject to ingredient list)
These bars are made primarily from real fruit puree, water, sugar, and sometimes milk, depending on the variety. They typically do not contain gluten-based thickeners or additives. However, the formulation of food products can change, so checking each flavor’s ingredients before purchase is the best way to stay safe.
Possible Cross-Contamination
Even if Outshine Bars are made with gluten-free ingredients, there is always the possibility of cross-contamination if they are produced in a facility that also processes gluten-containing products. While some Outshine products are labeled gluten free, others may not be. The safest option for individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity is to stick with those clearly marked gluten free.
To verify, consumers can:
- Check the allergen statement on the package
- Look for a gluten free label or certification
- Visit the official brand website for updated gluten information
- Contact the company directly with any concerns
Outshine Bars Ingredients: A Closer Look
To better understand the gluten content, here’s a breakdown of typical ingredients found in a fruit-based Outshine Bar:
- Fruit puree or fruit juice concentrate
- Water
- Cane sugar
- Citric acid (used for tartness)
- Natural flavors
- Stabilizers like guar gum or locust bean gum
None of these ingredients inherently contain gluten. The gums used as stabilizers are naturally gluten free. However, those with extreme sensitivity should still verify that no wheat-derived stabilizers are used in any particular flavor.
Are Yogurt and Dairy-Based Outshine Bars Gluten Free?
In addition to fruit-based options, Outshine also offers yogurt and creamy bars. These bars may contain dairy ingredients such as milk, cream, and yogurt cultures. While these ingredients themselves do not contain gluten, the creamy varieties might include flavorings or add-ins that introduce gluten.
For example, any bar containing cookie crumbles, brownie bits, or granola could be a red flag for gluten. Always read the label carefully. Some creamy flavors are still safe, but each flavor should be evaluated individually.
Examples of Creamy Flavors to Check Carefully:
- Outshine Simply Indulgent Strawberry and Cream
- Outshine Yogurt Bars Peach or Blueberry
- Outshine Fruit & Cream Bars
These varieties may or may not contain gluten, depending on the ingredients used for texture or flavor. If you are sensitive, avoid those that do not have a clear gluten-free label.
Tips for Buying Gluten Free Frozen Treats
If you are shopping for gluten-free desserts, here are a few helpful tips to ensure you stay safe:
- Choose bars that clearly state gluten free on the package
- Avoid flavors that include cookie, cake, or grain-based ingredients
- Look for simple fruit-only bars with minimal ingredients
- Contact the manufacturer if in doubt
Outshine makes it relatively easy to identify safe options, but packaging and availability can vary by region. Double-checking labels is always a smart habit.
Are Outshine Bars Suitable for Other Diets?
Besides being mostly gluten free, Outshine Bars also cater to a range of dietary needs. Many of the fruit bars are:
- Low in fat
- Made with no artificial colors or flavors
- Suitable for vegetarians (check dairy content in creamy bars)
- Made with real fruit or juice
This makes them a good fit for people looking for a lighter frozen snack that still delivers flavor and satisfaction. However, those with dairy allergies should avoid the yogurt and indulgent varieties unless marked dairy-free.
So, are Outshine Bars gluten free? For the most part, yes especially the fruit-based varieties, which are made without gluten-containing ingredients and are often labeled gluten free. While not every single flavor is certified, many Outshine Bars are a safe and tasty option for individuals avoiding gluten. As always, check the label, watch for updates in recipes, and stay informed to ensure your frozen treat meets your dietary needs. Outshine offers a wide variety of refreshing bars that can be enjoyed worry-free by most people living a gluten-free lifestyle.