When I was diagnosed with celiac disease, I assumed my days of enjoying most candies were over, especially those as delightful as Reese’s Pieces. To my surprise and relief, I discovered that Reese’s Pieces are, in fact, Gluten-Free, a small but significant happiness for someone navigating the complexities of this condition. The Gluten-Free label on Reese’s Pieces doesn’t just represent an ingredient list to me; it symbolizes inclusivity and consideration, a reminder that even with dietary restrictions, there’s still so much to enjoy.
Contents
- 1 What are Reese’s Pieces?
- 2 Gluten-Free Status
- 3 Nutritional Facts
- 4 Pros and Cons
- 5 FAQ
- 5.1 Are Reese’s Pieces Gluten-Free?
- 5.2 Can People with Peanut Allergies Eat Reese’s Pieces?
- 5.3 How Many Calories Are in a Serving of Reese’s Pieces?
- 5.4 Do Reese’s Pieces Contain Real Chocolate?
- 5.5 Are Reese’s Pieces Suitable for Vegans?
- 5.6 Can Reese’s Pieces Be Used in Baking?
- 5.7 Are There Different Flavors of Reese’s Pieces?
- 5.8 How Should Reese’s Pieces Be Stored?
- 5.9 Are Reese’s Pieces Healthy?
- 5.10 Is There a Risk of Cross-Contamination with Gluten in Reese’s Pieces?
- 6 Sources
What are Reese’s Pieces?
Reese’s Pieces are a candy made by The Hershey Company. They consist of a peanut butter center encased in a crunchy, candy shell. Known for their small, round shape and bright orange, yellow, and brown colors, Reese’s Pieces gained widespread popularity and recognition, partly due to their feature in the film “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.”
Early Beginnings
- Inception: Reese’s Pieces were introduced by The Hershey Company in 1978. They were developed as an extension of the popular Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups brand, which was already well-loved for its peanut butter and chocolate combination.
Gaining Popularity
- E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial: A significant boost in their popularity came in 1982 when Reese’s Pieces were featured in the blockbuster movie “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” The candy was used in a famous scene where the protagonist lures the alien, E.T., with a trail of Reese’s Pieces. This product placement was a marketing triumph and led to a dramatic increase in sales.
Product Evolution
- Formulation and Packaging: Over the years, Reese’s Pieces have maintained their original formula and packaging style. The candy’s consistent quality and branding have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Gluten-Free Status
Reese’s Pieces are indeed Gluten-Free. Hershey’s lists them as a Gluten-Free product, which means they contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This makes them a safe choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, it’s always recommended to check the packaging for the most up-to-date information as manufacturing processes can change.
Nutritional Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of Reese’s Pieces is important for those who are health-conscious or have specific dietary needs. Here’s a detailed look at their nutritional profile:
Basic Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: The typical serving size is about 51 pieces or 40 grams.
- Calories: A serving contains approximately 200 calories.
- Total Fat: There are about 10 grams of fat per serving, which includes saturated fat.
Sugar and Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: A serving contains around 24 grams of carbohydrates.
- Sugars: Of these carbohydrates, about 21 grams are sugars.
Protein and Fiber
- Protein: Reese’s Pieces provide about 5 grams of protein per serving.
- Dietary Fiber: They contain a negligible amount of dietary fiber.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin and Mineral Content: Reese’s Pieces are not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.
Ingredients
- Primary Ingredients: The main ingredients include sugar, partially defatted peanuts, hydrogenated vegetable oil (palm kernel and soybean oil), corn syrup, dextrose, colors (Yellow 5 Lake, Red 40 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Blue 1 Lake), salt, resinous glaze, soy lecithin, modified cornstarch, carnauba wax, vanillin, and artificial flavor.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gluten-Free: A major benefit for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is that Reese’s Pieces are Gluten-Free, making them a safe candy choice.
- High in Protein (for a candy): Compared to many other candies, Reese’s Pieces offer a higher protein content due to the peanut butter.
- Convenient and Portable: Their small size and hard shell make them convenient for on-the-go snacking without the mess.
- Widely Available: Reese’s Pieces are easily accessible in most convenience stores, supermarkets, and movie theaters.
Cons
- High in Sugar and Calories: Reese’s Pieces are high in sugar, contributing to their high caloric content, which can be a concern for individuals monitoring their sugar intake or managing weight.
- Contains Allergens: The presence of peanuts and soy makes them unsuitable for people with allergies to these ingredients.
- Artificial Ingredients: They contain artificial colors and flavors, which might be a concern for those who prefer natural ingredients in their diet.
- Not Nutritionally Rich: While they have some protein, Reese’s Pieces are not a significant source of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
- Dental Health: Like many candies, frequent consumption can potentially lead to dental health issues, including cavities.
FAQ
Are Reese’s Pieces Gluten-Free?
Yes, Reese’s Pieces are Gluten-Free, making them suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Can People with Peanut Allergies Eat Reese’s Pieces?
No, Reese’s Pieces contain peanuts and are not safe for individuals with peanut allergies.
How Many Calories Are in a Serving of Reese’s Pieces?
A typical serving of about 51 pieces (40 grams) contains approximately 200 calories.
Do Reese’s Pieces Contain Real Chocolate?
Reese’s Pieces do not contain chocolate. They are made with a peanut butter center and a candy shell.
Are Reese’s Pieces Suitable for Vegans?
Reese’s Pieces are not vegan-friendly as they contain ingredients like milk that are derived from animals.
Can Reese’s Pieces Be Used in Baking?
Yes, they are a popular addition to various baking recipes, such as cookies and brownies, adding a peanut butter flavor and colorful appearance.
Are There Different Flavors of Reese’s Pieces?
Currently, Reese’s Pieces primarily come in one flavor, which is the peanut butter candy in a crunchy shell.
How Should Reese’s Pieces Be Stored?
They should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent melting. Refrigeration is not necessary but can be done if preferred.
Are Reese’s Pieces Healthy?
While they are a delicious treat, they are high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation. They are not considered healthy food.
Is There a Risk of Cross-Contamination with Gluten in Reese’s Pieces?
Reese’s Pieces are labeled Gluten-Free, but those with severe sensitivities should always check the latest packaging and manufacturing information for any potential changes in production processes.
Sources
Are Reese’s Pieces Gluten Free? – The GFB: https://theglutenfreebar.com/blogs/gluten-free-food-list/are-reeses-pieces-gluten-free