Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular, with many people cutting out gluten for health, dietary, or medical reasons. For those avoiding gluten, it can be tricky to figure out if favorite foods like pudding contain gluten or not.
Jell-O brand chocolate pudding is gluten-free. The ingredients in Jell-O chocolate instant pudding do not contain any gluten-containing grains. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when enjoying Jell-O chocolate pudding on a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients in Jell-O Chocolate Pudding
The main ingredients in Jell-O chocolate pudding are:
- Sugar
- Modified corn starch
- Cocoa processed with alkali
- Nonfat milk
- Less than 2% of dipotassium phosphate, mono and diglycerides, natural and artificial flavor, salt, carrageenan, sodium stearoyl lactylate.
None of these ingredients contain gluten. The main thickening agent used is corn starch, not wheat starch. Cocoa powder and nonfat milk are also naturally gluten-free ingredients.
On Jell-O chocolate pudding packages, you may also see a “gluten-free” label which further confirms the product does not contain gluten.
Cross-Contamination Risk
While Jell-O chocolate pudding itself is gluten-free, there is a small chance of cross-contamination occurring during manufacturing. Cross-contamination happens when gluten-containing grains come into contact with gluten-free foods and minute amounts get transferred.
For very sensitive celiacs, even tiny amounts of gluten from cross-contamination can trigger symptoms. However, the risk is low with Jell-O pudding as it is produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities.
If you have celiac disease or are highly sensitive, be sure to check the label each time you purchase Jell-O chocolate pudding to ensure the facility has not changed.
Checking for a “Gluten-Free” Label
Always look for a clear “gluten-free” label on the Jell-O chocolate pudding box. This indicates testing has been done to verify less than 20 parts per million of gluten, the maximum threshold allowed for gluten-free labeling in the U.S. and Canada.
A “may contain wheat” warning would also be present if there was significant gluten cross-contamination risk.
Risk from Add-In Mix-Ins
While the Jell-O brand chocolate pudding itself is gluten-free, many people enjoy adding mix-ins like crushed cookies, candies, or toppings that may contain gluten. Read labels carefully and avoid adding any cookies, sprinkles, candies or other toppings that contain wheat, barley, rye or malt.
Some gluten-free mix-in ideas include:
- Chopped nuts
- Whipped cream
- Cherries
- Shaved chocolate
- Crushed gluten-free Oreos
Avoid using serving utensils that have come into contact with gluten-containing foods to scoop the finished gluten-free chocolate pudding.
Verdict: Jell-O Brand Chocolate Pudding is Gluten-Free
Jell-O brand instant chocolate pudding is gluten-free according to the ingredients label and “gluten-free” labeling. However, those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should still check labels each time for any changes in production.
Care should also be taken with any toppings or mix-ins added to ensure they are gluten-free as well. As long as you choose certified gluten-free add-ins, Jell-O chocolate pudding can be safely enjoyed as part of a gluten-free diet.
For added confirmation, you can contact the Jell-O manufacturer to inquire about their facilities and testing procedures. With minimal risk of cross-contamination and thorough labeling, Jell-O brand chocolate pudding can be considered gluten-free.
| Pudding Flavor | Gluten-Free Status |
|---|---|
| Chocolate | Gluten-free |
| Vanilla | Gluten-free |
| Pistachio | Gluten-free |
| Lemon | Gluten-free |
| Butterscotch | Gluten-free |
| Cheesecake | Gluten-free |
As this table shows, all Jell-O brand instant pudding flavors are gluten-free. The ingredients and manufacturing processes are very similar across all flavors, making Jell-O puddings a safe gluten-free dessert option.
Other Brands of Chocolate Pudding
While Jell-O brand is gluten-free, always check labels and contact manufacturers to determine the gluten-free status of other brands of chocolate pudding. Some key things to look for:
- A “gluten-free” label on the packaging
- No wheat ingredients listed
- Corn starch instead of wheat starch as the thickener
- Produced in a gluten-free facility
Many store brand chocolate puddings also use corn starch and are gluten-free, but confirm by reading the label carefully. Puddings thickened with wheat starch would not be gluten-free.
Making Homemade Chocolate Pudding
For those wanting complete control over ingredients, homemade chocolate pudding is an option. Here is a simple gluten-free recipe:
Gluten-Free Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and bubbles, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter.
- Pour pudding into a bowl and press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily make gluten-free chocolate pudding at home. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats and read all labels to ensure no cross-contamination with other homemade desserts.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Pudding Brands
In addition to Jell-O, here are some other brands that offer gluten-free chocolate pudding options:
- Kozy Shack
- Snack Pack
- Hunt’s
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods Market (365 brand)
Always verify by carefully reading the labels and contacting manufacturers directly if still unsure. Many brands will list contacts and procedures for confirming gluten-free status on their website or packaging.
Pudding Alternatives
For those wanting to avoid pudding altogether, there are some gluten-free, dairy-free chocolate pudding alternatives like:
- Chocolate chia seed pudding
- Chocolate avocado pudding
- Chocolate coconut cream pudding
- Chocolate silken tofu pudding
- Chocolate mousse
Recipes for these alternatives are abundant online. Be sure to use gluten-free ingredients and avoid cross-contamination when preparing.
Tips for Enjoying Jell-O Chocolate Pudding
Here are some tips for safely incorporating Jell-O chocolate pudding into a gluten-free diet:
- Always check the label for the “gluten-free” confirmation
- Avoid eating directly from the container to prevent cross-contamination
- Use a freshly washed spoon to scoop out each serving
- Store chocolate pudding separately from gluten-containing items
- Add gluten-free toppings like whipped cream or cherries
- Layer chocolate pudding with other gluten-free desserts for parfaits
With proper precautions, Jell-O chocolate pudding can be a delicious and nostalgic gluten-free treat.
Nutrition Information
Here are the nutrition facts for a 1/2 cup serving of Jell-O brand chocolate pudding:
| Amount | Daily Value |
|---|---|
| Calories 160 | 8% |
| Total Fat 3g | 5% |
| Sodium 300mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrate 28g | 10% |
| Protein 3g | 6% |
The main nutrients in Jell-O chocolate pudding are carbohydrates and a small amount of fat and protein. There are 160 calories in 1/2 cup serving.
The ingredients like milk and cocoa powder also provide vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, iron and potassium.
Overall, Jell-O chocolate pudding can be part of a balanced gluten-free diet when consumed in moderation alongside other whole foods.
Common Questions
Is there gluten in chocolate?
Pure chocolate does not contain gluten. Cocoa beans are naturally gluten-free. However, some chocolate products add barley malt, wheat starch or other gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the label of chocolate bars, chips and other chocolate products.
Is Jell-O gluten-free?
Yes, Jell-O brand gelatin desserts are labeled gluten-free. The boxes are marked with a “gluten-free” label. All flavors of Jell-O gelatin, including chocolate, are safe for gluten-free diets when prepared properly.
Can chocolate pudding be frozen?
Chocolate pudding can be frozen for longer term storage. Make sure the pudding is cooled completely first. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How long does chocolate pudding last?
Prepared chocolate pudding will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze pudding for 2-3 months. Properly stored, unopened packages of instant pudding mix have a shelf life of 9-12 months past the printed date.
The Bottom Line
Jell-O brand chocolate pudding is considered gluten-free according to the ingredients label and packaging. Care should still be taken to avoid cross-contamination from utensils, storage containers or gluten-containing toppings.
Overall, following basic precautions, Jell-O chocolate pudding is a safe and delicious gluten-free dessert option for most people on a gluten-free diet.
