Is Hershey’S Special Dark Gluten Free?

Is Hershey’S Special Dark Gluten Free?

Hershey’s Special Dark chocolate bars are not certified gluten-free. While the primary ingredients don’t contain gluten, Hershey’s cannot guarantee that there is no cross-contamination during manufacturing, so they don’t label this product as gluten-free.

TL;DR

Hershey’s Special Dark chocolate bars are not certified gluten-free. While the primary ingredients don’t contain gluten, Hershey’s cannot guarantee that there is no cross-contamination during manufacturing, so they don’t label this product as gluten-free.

Quick Tips

1

Higher antioxidant content compared to milk chocolate, primarily due to flavonoids

2

May help improve heart health by potentially lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow

3

Could potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

# In This Article

3 sections

Quick navigation to each section of this article:

1 Benefits of Hershey'S Special Dark

Higher antioxidant content compared to milk chocolate, primarily due to flavonoids

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2 Who should avoid Hershey'S Special Dark

People with chocolate allergies

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3 Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Hershey's Special Dark chocolate, along with brief descriptions:

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Benefits of Hershey'S Special Dark

Benefits of Hershey'S Special Dark
Higher antioxidant content compared to milk chocolate, primarily due to flavonoids
May help improve heart health by potentially lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow
Could potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
May have mood-boosting properties, potentially helping to reduce stress and anxiety
Contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc
May help improve cognitive function and potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases
Could potentially improve insulin sensitivity, which may be beneficial for diabetes management
May have mild sun-protective effects on the skin due to flavonoids
Contains some fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health
May have anti-inflammatory propertiesIt’s important to remember that these benefits are generally associated with dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more). Hershey’s Special Dark, while darker than milk chocolate, may not have as high a cocoa content as some other dark chocolate products. Additionally, it still contains added sugars and fats, so it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Who should avoid Hershey'S Special Dark

Who should avoid Hershey'S Special Dark
People with chocolate allergies
Individuals with caffeine sensitivity (dark chocolate contains more caffeine than milk chocolate)
Those with milk allergies (may contain milk traces due to manufacturing processes)
People with soy allergies (contains soy lecithin)
Individuals trying to manage their sugar intake (contains added sugars)
Those on low-calorie diets (chocolate is calorie-dense)
People with certain heart conditions (due to its stimulant effects)
Individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux
Those with migraines triggered by chocolate
People with kidney stones (due to high oxalate content)
Individuals taking certain medications that may interact with caffeine
Pregnant women (should limit caffeine intake)
Young children (due to caffeine content and choking hazard)
People with phenylketonuria (PKU) (contains phenylalanine)
Those with diabetes should consume in moderation and account for carbohydratesAlways consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions.
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Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Hershey's Special Dark chocolate, along with brief descriptions:

Gluten Free Alternatives
Enjoy Life Dark Chocolate Bars- Made with all-natural, non-GMO ingredients- Free from 14 common allergens, including gluten- Rich, smooth dark chocolate with 69% cocoa content
Alter Eco Dark Blackout Organic Chocolate- Organic, fair trade dark chocolate- 85% cocoa content for intense flavor- Made with just cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and raw cane sugar
Endangered Species Dark Chocolate with 88% Cocoa- Ethically sourced and gluten-free- High cocoa content for a bold, intense flavor- Supports wildlife conservation efforts
Pascha Organic Dark Chocolate Chips- 100% organic and vegan- 85% cacao for a rich, dark chocolate taste- Free from common allergens, including gluten, nuts, and soy
Lily's Dark Chocolate Bar- Sweetened with stevia for a low-sugar option- 70% cocoa content for a balanced dark chocolate flavor- Non-GMO and gluten-free certifiedThese alternatives offer a range of cocoa percentages and flavor profiles while maintaining gluten-free status, catering to various dietary needs and taste preferences.

Health Information

? Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions
1 Why is dark chocolate not gluten-free?
Dark chocolate is typically gluten-free. The main ingredients in dark chocolate - cocoa, cocoa butter, and sugar - do not contain gluten. However, some dark chocolate products may contain gluten due to additives or cross-contamination during manufacturing. It's important for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to check labels carefully and choose dark chocolate that is specifically labeled as gluten-free.
2 Does Hershey's dark chocolate syrup have gluten?
Hershey's dark chocolate syrup is generally considered gluten-free. The main ingredients in this product do not contain gluten. However, it's always best to check the label for the most up-to-date information. If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, you may want to contact Hershey's directly to confirm their manufacturing processes.
3 Which dark chocolate bars are gluten-free?
Most pure dark chocolate bars are naturally gluten-free. However, it's important to check the ingredient list for any added gluten-containing ingredients or potential cross-contamination warnings. Many reputable chocolate brands offer certified gluten-free dark chocolate options. Some popular gluten-free dark chocolate brands include Lindt Excellence, Ghirardelli Intense Dark, and Endangered Species.
4 Is Hershey's Special Dark bar gluten-free?
Hershey's Special Dark chocolate bar is generally considered gluten-free. The ingredients in this product do not typically contain gluten. However, Hershey's does not officially certify this product as gluten-free. It's always best to check the packaging or contact the manufacturer directly if you have severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Our Expert

Drs. Ilse van Asperen, Orthomolecular Therapist and Nutritional Coach

Drs. Ilse van Asperen

Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor

Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website

Our Sources

The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.

Sources

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