Gluten Free Snack Foods

People with celiac disease must avoid gluten, which is the protein of wheat, rye, barley and some other grains. Gluten is found in many traditional snack foods, including some brands of crackers, chips, candy and baked goods. Avoid contaminating foods with products that might contain gluten; even small amount of a gluten-containing food can cause illness in the person with celiac disease.

Dairy Snack Foods

While milk is gluten-free, some dairy products may contain fillers or other ingredients that have gluten in them. Always read labels carefully before eating or serving. According to Celiac Central, some types of dairy products are known to be gluten-free. Chocolate, vanilla and chocolate chip ice cream by Baskin Robbins, Ben & Jerry's, Blue Bell and Dairy Queen are all gluten-free. Feel free to check for ice cream additives like cookies or pieces of cake. Jello and Del Monte brand pudding cups do not contain gluten. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Parmesan, Swiss and Edam are safe, as are Sargento and Kraft cheese sticks, but processed cheeses may not be. Yogurt is often gluten-free, but some may contain suspect additives; check labels carefully.

Chips and Other Crunchy Snacks

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Certain brands of chips and other crunchy snack foods are known to be gluten-free. Some of these include Lays STAXX, Doritos Rollitos and Ruffles Regular potato chips. Popcorn is gluten-free on its own, but some brands of microwave popcorn may contain gluten. Safe brands include Orville Redenbacher's, Jiffy Pop and Crunch N Munch. Act II popcorn is safe, except for the Extreme Butter brand, according to Celiac Central. The Celiac Sprue Association states that cornmeal-based chips and tortilla chips are gluten-free, as are vegetable chips and nut chips without gluten listed on the label.

Candy

Many candies are gluten-free, and those with celiac disease can enjoy them. Hershey's chocolate kisses, hugs, nuggets and bars that do not contain cookie pieces or crispies are safe. Other safe chocolate candies include M&Ms, Raisinets, Reese's peanut butter cups, 3 Musketeers, Baby Ruth, Snickers, Butterfingers, York Peppermint Patties and Dove chocolate. Chewy or fruity candies that are gluten-free include Jelly Belly jellybeans, Starburst, Skittles and Airheads. Safe gum brands include Trident, Wrigley's, Bubble Yum and Dentyne.

Fruits and Vegetables

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Raw, fresh fruits and vegetables are gluten-free, and make healthy snacks. When using frozen or canned produce, it is important to check labels carefully; many contain emulsifiers, thickeners or sauces that contain gluten.