Steer clear of original Cracker Jack if you need to eat strictly gluten-free — but delicious alternatives exist.

Cracker Jacks, the classic American snack, have been a favorite among both kids and adults for over a century. The iconic box containing caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts has been a staple at ballparks, parties, and gatherings. However, for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, the question remains: are Cracker Jacks gluten-free?

To determine if Cracker Jacks are gluten-free, we need to examine the ingredients. According to the Frito-Lay website, the ingredients in Cracker Jacks are:

We have to address the prize in the box. While the toy itself is plastic or paper (and obviously not food), its presence inside the bag introduces a unique manufacturing challenge.

The traditional Cracker Jack recipe uses as a key ingredient for its signature flavor. Barley is a gluten-containing grain, making the product unsafe for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

The most reliable way to determine if a packaged food is safe is to look for the "Gluten-Free" certification label—usually from the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) or a similar certifying body.

The good news is that Cracker Jacks do not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. The ingredients listed above are naturally gluten-free. However, it's essential to note that Cracker Jacks are manufactured in facilities that may also process gluten-containing products.