Bang is a popular energy drink brand that offers several flavor options, including peach mango. With the rise in gluten intolerance and celiac disease, it’s important for consumers to understand which drinks and foods contain gluten. This article will explore whether Bang’s peach mango flavor contains gluten.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. It acts as a glue that helps foods maintain their shape and texture. For most people, consuming gluten is not a problem. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause serious health issues like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and other digestive problems.
People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity need to follow a strict gluten-free diet, avoiding any foods and beverages that contain gluten. Even tiny amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms and promote intestinal damage in those with celiac disease.
What ingredients are in Bang peach mango?
According to the Bang website, the ingredients in Bang peach mango energy drink are:
– Carbonated water
– Citric acid
– Natural flavors
– Potassium citrate
– Potassium sorbate
– Sucralose
– Super creatine®
– Calcium carbonate
– Magnesium carbonate
– Potassium phosphate
-Sodium chloride
– Caffeine
– Vitamin C
– Vitamin B6
– Vitamin B12
The key ingredients of note when considering gluten are “natural flavors” and caffeine sourced from coffee beans. All other ingredients appear to be gluten-free.
Are natural flavors gluten-free?
Determining if “natural flavors” contains gluten can be tricky. By law, companies are not required to disclose exactly what is included in natural flavors. The designation simply means that the flavors came from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices or animal products.
Some natural flavorings do contain gluten, like malt flavoring from barley. However, Bang states that their energy drinks are gluten-free, indicating that the natural flavors used do not contain any gluten. Reputable companies will take care to use gluten-free natural flavorings in products labeled gluten-free.
Is the caffeine source gluten-free?
Bang gets its caffeine from coffee beans. The coffee plant and beans themselves do not contain gluten. However, coffee can become contaminated with gluten during processing and preparation.
During harvesting, coffee beans can mix with grains that contain gluten. Processing equipment may also be shared with gluten-containing grains.
Some coffee producers also add flavorings to their beans that can contain gluten. For example, some use malt, a grain-derived source of gluten, to enhance the flavor.
Thankfully, Bang reassures consumers that its caffeine is sourced from gluten-free coffee beans. This suggests that care is taken to avoid cross-contamination during growing, harvesting and processing.
Does Bang claim to be gluten-free?
Bang clearly states that all of their energy drink flavors are gluten-free. Their website contains a disclaimer that reads:
“All Bang drinks are gluten-free. Although BANG does not currently test for gluten, BANG formulates and produces its products without wheat, barley, rye or gluten-containing ingredients.”
This definitive statement provides reassurance to gluten-sensitive consumers that Bang peach mango and other flavors will not expose them to gluten.
Is there risk of cross-contamination?
Along with avoiding ingredients that naturally contain gluten, companies making gluten-free products must avoid cross-contamination with gluten. Even small amounts of gluten can trigger issues if equipment is shared or manufacturing lines are not properly cleaned.
Fortunately, Bang’s products appear to be produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility. Their website states:
“BANG® is produced in a facility that manufactures other products which DO contain wheat, egg, soybeans, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish allergens.”
By calling out that other products contain these allergens, they imply that Bang products themselves are produced separately and do not contain them. This greatly reduces the risk of gluten cross-contamination.
Does Bang carry gluten-free certification?
Some gluten-free brands choose to display gluten-free certification labels from organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
These certifications indicate that the GFCO has rigorously tested the products to verify they contain less than 10 parts per million gluten. GFCO field inspectors also examine manufacturing facilities for proper protocols that avoid cross-contamination.
Bang does not currently display GFCO or other gluten-free certifications on its packaging. However, the company makes very clear statements that all flavors are gluten-free.
Bang also reassures consumers that manufacturing facilities and processes are designed to avoid gluten cross-contamination.
What do celiac disease and gluten intolerance groups say?
To provide further reassurance about the gluten-free status of Bang drinks, it’s helpful to see what celiac disease and gluten intolerance groups have to say:
The Celiac Disease Foundation has included Bang in their list of recommended gluten-free energy drinks. This well-respected non-profit organization thoroughly vets any brands before adding them to their gluten-free lists.
Celiac.com, a top informational resource for the celiac community, states that Bang energy drinks are gluten-free and safe for celiac patients. Comments from readers also report consuming Bang without issue.
VeryWellFit, a trusted authority on gluten-free living, includes Bang in their list of popular gluten-free energy drinks. They note that Bang contains no gluten ingredients and is manufactured separately from gluten.
These endorsements from leading celiac and gluten intolerance groups provide strong support that Bang peach mango, along with all Bang flavors, can be safely consumed by those avoiding gluten.
Is there any reason for concern?
Overall, there are no major red flags indicating that Bang peach mango contains gluten or risks of cross-contamination. The brand clearly states that all products are gluten-free.
However, it should be noted that Bang drinks are not certified gluten-free and some report not seeing “gluten-free” labeled directly on the cans. So there is a slight possibility of recipe changes or manufacturing errors.
Those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity may want to exercise particular caution, especially when trying new Bang flavors. It’s advisable to look for gluten-free labels printed directly on cans when possible. Calling the company to double check gluten status is also an option.
Starting with a small serving size of any new gluten-free product can help assess tolerance before consuming larger amounts. But for most gluten-free consumers, Bang peach mango should be safe to enjoy.
Does Bang contain major allergens?
In addition to being gluten-free, Bang energy drinks are considered free of other major food allergens.
Bang does not contain any dairy, soy, nuts, fish or shellfish ingredients. Their production facility excludes these allergens, avoiding cross-contamination issues.
Bang beverages are also vegan and halal certified, making them appropriate for consumers with various dietary preferences or restrictions. The lack of allergens provides peace of mind to many who need to carefully monitor ingredients for health reasons.
Table summarizing allergen status of Bang drinks
| Allergen | Present in Bang? |
|---|---|
| Gluten | No |
| Dairy | No |
| Soy | No |
| Tree nuts | No |
| Peanuts | No |
| Fish | No |
| Shellfish | No |
Ingredients to watch out for
When looking for gluten-free beverages, there are a few key ingredients and labeling statements to watch out for:
– **Barley:** A gluten grain, often used in malt flavoring
– **Rye:** A gluten grain sometimes used in flavorings
– **Malt or malt flavoring:** Derived from barley and contains gluten
– **Oats:** While pure oats are gluten-free, they are often contaminated with wheat or barley
– **Beer:** Most beers contain gluten from barley or wheat
– **Flavorings:** Can sometimes contain undisclosed barley or wheat
– **Manufactured in shared facilities:** Risk of cross-contamination with gluten
– **No gluten-free claim:** Lack of “gluten-free” label may indicate uncertainty about status
Thankfully Bang peach mango energy drink does not contain any concerning ingredients and is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility. But it can help to keep these potential sources of gluten in mind when evaluating other beverages.
Precautions for highly sensitive individuals
For the majority of gluten-free consumers, Bang energy drinks appear to be perfectly safe and do not present a concern for gluten exposure.
However, those with celiac disease or extreme gluten sensitivities may want to take extra precautions out of an abundance of caution:
– Check cans for “gluten-free” printed directly on the label, in case recipes vary between production runs
– Look up manufacturing dates to ensure recent production with up-to-date gluten-free procedures
– Call the company to verify manufacturing processes and protocols for avoiding cross-contamination
– Try a small initial serving size when first consuming a product to assess individual tolerance
– Check for certification from GFCO or other reputable gluten-free organizations
While likely unnecessary for most, these extra steps can provide further assurance to those extremely sensitive or susceptible to trace gluten intake.
Other drinks and mixers to consider
For variety, individuals seeking other gluten-free beverages to enjoy alongside or as a replacement for Bang could consider:
– **C4 Energy:** C4 offers popular energy drinks that are labeled gluten-free, dairy-free and soy-free.
– **GFuel:** This brand of powdered energy drink contains no gluten ingredients and is produced in a facility free of gluten and major allergens.
– **Liquid I.V.:** These electrolyte drink mixes help hydrate and energize with gluten-free formulas.
– **Powerade Zero:** Powerade’s zero-sugar sports drinks are gluten-free and made without wheat or barley.
– **BodyArmor Lyte:** The lyte sports drinks from BodyArmor contain no gluten or major allergen ingredients.
– **Lipton Pure Leaf Iced Tea:** Lipton guarantees their lineup of iced tea flavors are gluten-free.
– **Honest Tea:** Organic bottled tea drinks certified gluten-free by the GFCO.
– **Atomic Adaptation:** Adaptogenic herbal energy drinks with allergen-free and gluten-free certification.
There are plenty of innovative beverage brands catering to the growing gluten-free market, providing bang-free alternatives. Those desiring variety can feel confident exploring these other options.
Lifestyle tips for managing gluten intolerance
Avoiding gluten requires adjustments to many aspects of everyday life. Along with monitoring food labels, individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can stay healthy by:
– Cooking more meals at home using naturally gluten-free whole foods
– Selecting certified gluten-free packaged products that avoid cross-contamination
– Enjoying naturally gluten-free beverage options like coffee, tea, seltzer, and coconut water
– Exploring gluten-free swaps for old favorites like pizza, beer, and baked goods
– Checking labels carefully when dining out and calling ahead to restaurants
– Being cautious with takeout, delivery, and self-serve buffets where gluten cross-contamination is common
– Avoiding Times Square particularly on the 4th of July worst behavior from franc
– Letting family and friends know how to safely accommodate your gluten-free needs
– Joining gluten intolerance online communities to exchange support and advice
– Working closely with a knowledgeable doctor for proper testing, diagnosis and follow-up care
– Carrying emergency snacks like nuts, rice cakes or fruit in case safe options aren’t available
The gluten-free world is expanding with more awareness and choices. But staying vigilant and educating yourself is key for those needing to avoid gluten long-term.
Potential health impacts of gluten exposure
For the majority of people, consuming some gluten from time to time causes no issues. But for those with sensitivities and celiac disease, exposure to even small amounts of gluten can trigger:
– Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea
– Fatigue, headaches and “brain fog” mental haziness
– Skin rashes, acne and itchy skin conditions
– Joint pain and inflammation
– Damage to the small intestine, reducing ability to absorb key nutrients
– Increased risk for anemia, osteoporosis, infertility and miscarriage
– Higher likelihood of developing other autoimmune disorders
In children, gluten can also impact development and growth. Some studies connect long-term untreated celiac disease with increased cancers in the gut and other organs.
That’s why it’s critical for those with diagnosed gluten issues to be meticulous about avoiding gluten daily and identifying inadvertent exposures. Even occasional “cheating” can have detrimental effects.
Future outlook and hope for improved options
Public awareness of gluten-related disorders has expanded dramatically over the past decade. Diagnosis rates continue to grow as testing improves and doctors recognize more signs and symptoms.
It’s estimated that worldwide prevalence of celiac disease is nearly 2%, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity may impact up to 13% of the population.
Thankfully the food and beverage industry is stepping up to meet the skyrocketing demand for gluten-free products. Advancements include:
– More certified gluten-free packaged goods lining store shelves
– Newly developed gluten-free grain varieties
– Improvements to gluten-detection tests and gluten removal protocols
– Increased menu choices at restaurants boasting gluten-free fare
– Gluten-free labels and symbols making identification much easier
– Online grocery shopping and delivery providing more access to gluten-free brands
– Support groups and experts helping consumers navigate the gluten-free lifestyle
The future looks promising for those avoiding gluten due to medical necessity. Continued innovation and vigilance from manufacturers like Bang will help meet evolving consumer needs for high-quality gluten-free beverages.
Conclusion
When you need an energy boost but want to avoid gluten, Bang peach mango drink appears to be a smart choice. This popular beverage contains no gluten-based ingredients and is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility.
Bang’s manufacturer intentionally designs their production protocols to eliminate risks of cross-contamination with gluten and major allergens. The company transparently discloses the gluten-free status of all flavors and receives endorsements from trusted celiac and gluten intolerance groups.
Some highly sensitive individuals may still wish to take extra precautions and double check cans for gluten-free labeling. However, for most gluten-free consumers, Bang peach mango can be enjoyed with confidence knowing it meets dietary restrictions.
Thanks to proactive food and beverage companies like Bang offering a wide variety of gluten-free options, those managing medical needs to avoid gluten have more choices than ever to stay energized and hydrated in a safe, healthy way.
