Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people choosing to avoid gluten for medical reasons or personal preferences. For those following a gluten-free diet, it can be challenging to find tasty, convenient snacks and granola bars that fit their dietary needs.
One popular granola bar that many wonder about in terms of gluten content is Nature Valley’s Honey and Oats granola bars. With a sweet honey coating and hearty oats, these granola bars seem like they could potentially contain gluten. So are Nature Valley Honey and Oats granola bars gluten-free?
The Short Answer
Yes, Nature Valley’s Honey and Oats granola bars are certified gluten-free. Nature Valley clearly labels these bars as “gluten free” on the packaging, making them a safe and convenient snack for those avoiding gluten.
Examining the Ingredients
To understand what makes Nature Valley’s Honey and Oats bars gluten-free, it’s helpful to take a closer look at the ingredients list:
| Whole Grain Oats |
| Sugar |
| Rice Flour |
| Crisp Rice |
| Honey |
| Soybean and Palm Oil |
| Salt |
| Natural Flavor |
The key ingredients in these bars are whole grain oats and rice flour. Oats are naturally gluten-free, while rice flour gives the bars an added binding and texture without any gluten. Other minor ingredients like honey, sugar, crisp rice, and oils are also gluten-free.
So by avoiding any gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye, and sticking to certified gluten-free oats and rice flour, Nature Valley is able to produce gluten-free granola bars that are safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Why Honey and Oats Bars Are Labeled Gluten-Free
In addition to the gluten-free ingredients, there are a few other reasons why Nature Valley confidently labels these bars as gluten-free:
Testing and Certification
Nature Valley states that their products undergo rigorous testing to confirm they meet the FDA requirements to be labelled gluten-free. All ingredients and manufacturing facilities are analyzed to ensure no cross-contamination occurs and final products contain less than 20ppm of gluten.
Manufacturing Processes
Nature Valley takes steps in their manufacturing process to prevent any gluten cross-contamination. This includes thorough cleaning protocols, dedicated gluten-free production lines, and employee training.
Accredited Gluten-Free Certifications
Nature Valley’s facilities meet accreditation standards for established gluten-free certification programs, including the GFCO (Gluten Free Certification Organization). This adds an extra layer of assurance that proper procedures are in place.
So between the naturally gluten-free ingredients, testing procedures, manufacturing protocols, and certification standards, consumers can trust that Nature Valley Honey and Oats bars accurately meet the criteria to be labelled as gluten-free.
Other Nutrition Facts
Aside from being gluten-free, here is some other basic nutrition information on Nature Valley Honey and Oats granola bars:
| Serving Size | 1 bar (1.5oz/42g) |
| Calories | 180 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 125mg |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Protein | 3g |
The bars provide a hearty dose of carbohydrates, mostly from the whole grain oats. There is 6g of sugar per bar, coming from ingredients like honey and sugar. They contain 3g of protein and 7g of fat.
So in terms of nutrition, they offer an energy-dense, sweet snack that also provides some protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals from the oats and other ingredients. The gluten-free aspect makes them unique from other granola bars on the market.
Where to Buy Nature Valley Honey and Oats Bars
Nature Valley Honey and Oats granola bars can be found at most major grocery stores, including:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Publix
- Safeway
- Stop & Shop
- HEB
- Giant
- Wegmans
They are typically located in the cereal/granola bar aisle, and sometimes in specialty gluten-free sections as well. The bars come in a variety of flavors like Apple Crisp, Pecan Crunch, and Cinnamon. Shoppers can find them in boxes or individual pouches for on-the-go snacking.
In addition to grocery stores, the bars can also be purchased online through retailers like Amazon, Instacart, Walmart, and Target. This makes it easy to have the gluten-free bars delivered directly to your door. Prices may vary between retailers, but generally run around $3-4 USD per 5-pack box.
Alternatives to Nature Valley Honey and Oats Bars
For those who want other gluten-free granola bar options besides Nature Valley, here are some popular alternatives:
Kind Bars
Kind Bars have a wide range of gluten-free flavors, with clearly marked gluten-free labels. Some popular options are Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt, and Caramel Almond & Sea Salt.
Larabar Bars
Larabar makes simple gluten-free bars with minimal ingredients like fruits, nuts, and spices. Top selling flavors include Cherry Pie, Apple Pie, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.
RXBARs
RXBARs contain egg whites, fruits, and nuts. Their gluten-free flavors include Peanut Butter, Berry Blast, and Pumpkin Spice.
NuGo Slim Bars
NuGo Slim Bars are gluten-free, high protein bars made with protein crisps. Tasty flavors include Chocolate Pretzel, Dark Chocolate Sea Salt, and Cookie Dough Chocolate Chunk.
9Bar
9Bar makes nutritious gluten-free granola bars packed with seeds, nuts, and real fruit. Flavors like Cinnamon Raisin, Chocolate Chip, and Lemon Blueberry are good choices.
So those needing gluten-free snacks have plenty of delicious options from reputable brands to consider beyond just Nature Valley bars.
Recipes for Homemade Granola Bars
In addition to store-bought brands, many people opt to make their own homemade gluten-free granola bars. This allows total control over the ingredients. Here are two tasty gluten-free recipes to try:
Simple Honey and Oats Bars
- 3 cups gluten-free oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, nuts
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
2. In a bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla and salt.
3. Mix in add-ins then press into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly browned. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Protein-Packed Bars
- 1 cup almond butter
- 2 scoops protein powder
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup mix-ins like dried fruit, nuts, seeds
1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
2. In a bowl, mix together the almond butter, protein powder, honey, egg, vanilla and salt.
3. Stir in any mix-ins then press into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set. Let cool before slicing.
The options are endless when making homemade bars with gluten-free oats, nut butters, fruits, and proteins. Get creative with combinations to make healthy snacks the whole family will love.
Are Other Nature Valley Bars Gluten-Free?
While the Honey and Oats flavor is gluten-free, not all Nature Valley granola bars are gluten-free:
- Not Gluten-Free: Nature Valley Oats ‘n Honey, Peanut Butter Granola Bars, Chewy Trail Mix Bars, Baked Oat Bites, Sweet & Salty Nut Bars
- Gluten-Free: Nature Valley Fruit & Nut Bars, Baked Oat Cups, Crunchy Granola Bars, Breakfast Biscuits
Always check the label to confirm “gluten-free” is listed for a particular variety, as ingredients vary between flavors. Some bars contain gluten sources like wheat or malted barley extract.
Nature Valley does a good job indicating gluten-free options and keeping those production lines separate. But as with any product, it’s important to read the label each time, even for bars that are normally gluten-free.
Are Nature Valley Bars Dairy-Free or Vegan?
While many Nature Valley bars are gluten-free, not all are dairy-free or vegan. For example:
- Honey and Oats: not dairy-free due to honey
- Fruit & Nut: dairy-free and vegan
- Granola Cups: contain milk ingredients
Always check for milk, honey, and other animal products in the ingredients list if requiring dairy-free or vegan snacks. Brands like Larabar, RXBAR, and 9Bar are typically better options for plant-based diets.
Precautions
While Nature Valley Honey and Oats bars are gluten-free, here are some precautions for sensitive individuals:
- Look for “gluten-free” clearly stated on label, as production varies.
- Check for changes in manufacturing facilities.
- Be aware of trace amounts less than 20ppm.
- Avoid if sensitive to oat avenins.
- Consume only 1-2 bars per day.
- Watch for added vitamins that use gluten sources.
As with any processed food, it’s smart to enjoy Nature Valley bars in moderation as part of an overall healthy, balanced diet. Those with celiac disease or wheat allergy should be especially diligent in checking labels each time a product is purchased.
Conclusion
Nature Valley Honey and Oats granola bars offer a delicious gluten-free snacking option. Made with gluten-free whole grain oats and rice flour and tested to ensure no cross-contamination, they are a safe bet for those requiring a gluten-free diet. Just be sure to always check the label and enjoy in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
