Warning for coeliacs as peanut M&M’s now use gluten-containing ingredients

Wheat allergen warnings are now appearing on most M&M's products. Photo / 123rf

By RNZ Life reporters of RNZ

The new ingredient list for peanut M&M’s includes a product that contains gluten, meaning the candy-covered chocolates are off the menu for coeliacs.

“This allergen labelling change has been made due to product sourcing changes and the inclusion of gluten-containing ingredients in the updated recipe,” Mars New Zealand said.

It said malt extract from barley and the potential cross-contamination of wheat had forced the change.

The same wheat allergen advice was to be added to M&M’s milk chocolate and mini products (except for mini tubes) from April 20.

Coeliac Society of New Zealand board member Sarah Neilson said while it’s one more thing on the list of things she can’t snack on, she appreciates the clear communication.

“It’s sad they have chosen to return to using malt extract (and one less lolly choice for the coeliac community), but it’s excellent they are being proactive about communicating their recipe change,” she said.

“Better labelling, clearer communication and stronger awareness is imperative for those managing allergies and coeliac disease to stay safe every day.”

Neilson was diagnosed coeliac eight years ago after having her second child. Her favourite sweets are Haribo Tangfastics gummies (but she still checks the label as they are produced in different factories).

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as rye and wheat. It’s estimated up to 100,000 New Zealanders could have coeliac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten that can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, weight loss, fatigue and anaemia.

A strict gluten-free diet is the only treatment for the disease.

– RNZ