Complete Guide to Gluten-Free Snacks at Walmart
Top TLDR:
Gluten-free snacks at Walmart include certified options across every category from chips and crackers to protein bars and baked goods, with Great Value store brands offering affordable alternatives to premium labels. This complete guide provides specific product recommendations with nutrition information and price points to help you build a safe, satisfying snack roster whether you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Start by checking for certified gluten-free labels and cross-contamination warnings to ensure products meet your safety requirements.
Finding safe, delicious gluten-free snacks doesn't require visiting specialty stores or paying premium prices. Walmart stocks an extensive selection of gluten-free options across all product categories, many at surprisingly affordable price points. Whether you're managing celiac disease, navigating gluten sensitivity, or cooking for someone with these conditions, understanding which products are safe and worth buying makes shopping simpler and less stressful.
This guide breaks down Walmart's gluten-free snack selection by category, providing specific product names, nutrition information, approximate prices, and safety considerations. You'll learn which items offer the best value, which brands consistently deliver on taste, and how to shop confidently while managing dietary restrictions.
Understanding Gluten-Free Labeling
Before exploring specific products, understanding labeling standards helps you shop safely and confidently.
FDA Gluten-Free Standards
The FDA requires products labeled "gluten-free" to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This threshold is recognized internationally as safe for most people with celiac disease. Products carrying this label have been tested and verified to meet this standard.
"Certified gluten-free" products undergo additional third-party testing and verification. While both labels indicate safety, certified products provide extra assurance through independent oversight. Organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) require even stricter standards—less than 10 ppm of gluten.
Reading for Cross-Contamination
Even gluten-free ingredients can become contaminated during manufacturing. Advisory statements like "manufactured in a facility that also processes wheat" or "may contain wheat" warn of this risk. For individuals with celiac disease, these warnings matter significantly. Products without advisory statements processed in dedicated gluten-free facilities offer the safest choices.
Understanding food security and mental health challenges becomes particularly important when managing celiac disease, where the stress of ensuring food safety compounds with the higher cost of specialized products.
Naturally Gluten-Free Whole Foods
The most affordable and nutritious gluten-free snacks are often whole foods that never contained gluten in the first place.
Fresh Produce
Fresh Fruits: Apples ($0.50-1.00 each), bananas ($0.20-0.30 each), oranges ($0.60-0.80 each), grapes ($2-4 per pound), berries ($3-5 per container). All fresh fruits are naturally gluten-free and provide fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness. Pre-cut fruit costs more but saves preparation time.
Fresh Vegetables: Baby carrots ($2-3 per pound), celery sticks ($1-2 per bunch), cherry tomatoes ($3-4 per container), bell peppers ($1-2 each), snap peas ($3-4 per pound). Raw vegetables provide crunch and nutrients without any gluten concerns. Pair with hummus or guacamole for added satisfaction.
Nuts and Seeds
Peanuts: Plain roasted or raw peanuts ($5-7 per pound) are naturally gluten-free. Avoid flavored varieties that might use gluten-containing seasonings. Great Value brand peanuts typically cost less than name brands with comparable quality.
Almonds: Raw or roasted almonds ($8-10 per pound) provide healthy fats and protein. Blue Diamond and Great Value both offer gluten-free options clearly labeled on packaging.
Cashews: Plain cashews ($9-11 per pound) work for snacking or adding to trail mixes. Check labels on flavored varieties for gluten-containing ingredients.
Sunflower Seeds: Seeds ($3-5 per pound) offer a nut-free alternative with similar nutritional benefits. David's and Great Value sunflower seeds are gluten-free when purchased plain.
Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Roasted pepitas ($6-8 per pound) provide protein, iron, and magnesium. Season at home to control ingredients and avoid cross-contamination.
Dairy Products
String Cheese: Brands like Sargento and Great Value string cheese (about $4-5 for 12-count) are naturally gluten-free. Each stick provides 6-8 grams of protein and calcium for bone health.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Pre-cooked eggs sold in refrigerated sections ($3-4 for 6-pack) offer convenient protein. Eggs contain no gluten and provide all nine essential amino acids.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Chobani, Fage, and Great Value Greek yogurt (cups around $1-1.50 each, large containers $4-6) are gluten-free. Choose plain varieties and add your own fruit to control sugar.
For families using nutrition assistance to access these foods, strategies from eating well in summer with assistance programs apply year-round when managing gluten-free diets.
Chips and Crunchy Snacks
Satisfying the desire for crunch requires careful label reading, but many chip varieties are naturally gluten-free.
Tortilla Chips
Tostitos Original: ($3-4 per bag) Made from corn, salt, and oil. The entire Tostitos Original line is gluten-free, though flavored varieties may contain gluten.
Great Value Tortilla Chips: ($2-3 per bag) Walmart's store brand offers significant savings. The plain corn chip varieties are gluten-free, but always verify current labeling.
Mission Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips: ($3-4 per bag) Certified gluten-free with clear labeling. Made with whole corn and minimal ingredients.
Xochitl Chips: ($4-5 per bag) Premium stone-ground corn tortilla chips that are gluten-free. Slightly higher price reflects artisanal production methods.
Corn Chips
Fritos Original: ($3-4 per bag) Simple ingredient list—corn, corn oil, and salt. Fritos Original and Lightly Salted varieties are gluten-free. Flavored varieties may contain gluten.
Fritos Scoops: ($3-4 per bag) Same gluten-free status as original Fritos but shaped for dipping. Pair with salsa or guacamole for a satisfying snack.
Potato Chips
Lay's Classic: ($3-4 per bag) Made from potatoes, oil, and salt. Most Lay's varieties are gluten-free, including Classic, Lightly Salted, and Sea Salt & Vinegar. Always check labels on flavored varieties.
Kettle Brand Potato Chips: ($4-5 per bag) Many flavors are certified gluten-free, including Sea Salt, Salt & Vinegar, and Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper. Thicker, crunchier texture than regular chips.
Great Value Potato Chips: ($2-3 per bag) Store brand saves money. Classic and basic flavored varieties are typically gluten-free—verify on packaging.
Popcorn
Skinny Pop: ($3-4 per bag) Pre-popped popcorn clearly labeled gluten-free. Light, airy texture with minimal ingredients. Available in original and flavored varieties.
Boom Chicka Pop: ($3-4 per bag) Another pre-popped option with gluten-free certification. Slightly sweeter varieties available alongside savory options.
Plain Popcorn Kernels: ($2-3 per bag) The most economical option. Pop at home using air-popper or stovetop method. Add your own seasonings to control ingredients.
Act II Microwave Popcorn: ($3-4 for multi-pack) Many flavors are gluten-free, including butter and kettle corn varieties. Check individual packages, as formulations can vary.
Crackers and Crispy Snacks
Replacing wheat-based crackers requires finding alternatives that deliver satisfying crunch and pair well with dips and toppings.
Rice-Based Crackers
Lundberg Rice Cakes: ($3-4 per package) Thin rice cakes in various flavors—lightly salted, caramel, and apple cinnamon. Each cake provides about 60 calories with minimal ingredients. Certified gluten-free and organic options available.
Quaker Rice Cakes: ($2-3 per package) More affordable than Lundberg with comparable quality. Available in large and mini sizes. The entire line is gluten-free.
Crunchmaster Multi-Seed Crackers: ($3-4 per box) Brown rice base with seeds for added nutrition and crunch. Multiple flavors including Original, Rosemary, and Artisan Cheesy Garlic. About 120 calories per serving (15 crackers).
Dedicated Gluten-Free Brands
Simple Mills Crackers: ($5-6 per box) Premium price reflects high-quality ingredients—almond flour, seeds, and minimal processing. Farmhouse Cheddar and Sea Salt varieties popular. About 150 calories per serving (17 crackers).
Glutino Crackers: ($4-5 per box) Long-standing gluten-free brand offering various flavors. Table crackers mimic wheat crackers in texture. About 140 calories per serving (15 crackers).
Schar Table Crackers: ($4-5 per box) European brand specializing in gluten-free products. Neutral flavor pairs well with cheese and spreads. About 120 calories per serving (6 crackers).
Mary's Gone Crackers: ($5-6 per box) Made from whole grains and seeds—brown rice, quinoa, and flax. Dense, hearty crackers with substantial texture. About 140 calories per serving (13 crackers).
Pretzels
Glutino Pretzel Sticks and Twists: ($4-5 per bag) Closely mimics traditional pretzel taste and texture. About 100 calories per serving (30 sticks or 10 twists).
Snyder's of Hanover Gluten-Free Pretzels: ($4-5 per bag) Familiar brand with gluten-free line. Sticks and mini pretzels available. About 110 calories per serving.
Great Value Gluten-Free Pretzels: ($3-4 per bag) Store brand offers savings on this snack category. Sticks provide satisfying crunch at lower cost.
Understanding accessible cooking resources helps when adapting recipes to use these gluten-free products as ingredients in homemade snacks.
Granola Bars and Sweet Snacks
Sweet snacks satisfy cravings while providing energy between meals.
Granola and Snack Bars
Kind Bars: ($1-1.50 per bar) Many varieties are gluten-free, including Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt and Almond & Coconut. About 200 calories per bar with 5-7 grams protein. Check individual flavors as not all are gluten-free.
Larabars: ($1-1.50 per bar) Entire line is gluten-free and made from dates and nuts. Flavors include Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Cookie, and Cherry Pie. About 190-220 calories per bar.
RXBAR: ($2-2.50 per bar) Premium bars with clear ingredient labels showing egg whites, dates, and nuts. All flavors gluten-free. About 210 calories with 12 grams protein per bar.
Nature Valley Gluten-Free Granola Bars: ($3-4 for 6-count box) Familiar brand offers gluten-free options in Oats 'n Honey and Peanut Butter flavors. About 140 calories per bar.
Enjoy Life Chewy Bars: ($4-5 per box) Top-8-allergen-free including gluten. SunButter Crunch and Caramel Blondie varieties popular. About 140 calories per bar.
Cookies and Baked Goods
Simple Mills Cookies: ($5-6 per package) Almond flour base creates satisfying texture. Chocolate Chip and Double Chocolate varieties available. About 150 calories per serving (2 cookies).
Enjoy Life Cookies: ($4-5 per package) Crunchy cookies free from top allergens. Flavors include Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, and Double Chocolate. About 120 calories per serving (2 cookies).
Glutino Cookies: ($4-5 per package) Variety of sandwich cookies, vanilla wafers, and chocolate chip options. About 140 calories per serving (2 cookies).
Pamela's Products Cookies: ($5-6 per package) Premium gluten-free cookies including Ginger Snapz and Chocolate Chip. About 130 calories per serving (2 cookies).
Rice Crispy Treats and Cereal Bars
Kellogg's Rice Krispies Treats: (Not gluten-free - contains malt flavoring from barley)
Malt-O-Meal Crispy Rice: ($3-4 per cereal box) Gluten-free crispy rice cereal you can use to make homemade treats following dairy-free recipes adapted for gluten-free needs.
Protein-Rich Snacks
Meeting protein needs supports satiety and muscle maintenance, particularly important when dietary restrictions already limit food choices.
Jerky and Meat Snacks
Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky: ($6-8 per bag) Most varieties are gluten-free, but always verify labels. About 80 calories and 12 grams protein per serving (1 oz).
Chomps Grass-Fed Beef Sticks: ($2-2.50 per stick) Individual sticks certified gluten-free. About 100 calories and 10 grams protein per stick.
Duke's Shorty Sausages: ($5-6 per package) Gluten-free smoked sausage snacks. About 100 calories and 7 grams protein per stick.
Great Value Jerky: ($5-6 per bag) Store brand offers savings on meat snacks. Verify gluten-free status on current packaging.
Nut Butters
Peanut Butter (Natural): Brands like Jif Natural, Skippy Natural, and Great Value Natural ($3-5 per jar) contain only peanuts and salt. About 190 calories and 7 grams protein per 2-tablespoon serving.
Almond Butter: Justin's, MaraNatha, and Great Value ($8-12 per jar depending on brand) provide alternative to peanuts. About 190 calories and 7 grams protein per 2-tablespoon serving.
Sunflower Seed Butter: SunButter ($6-8 per jar) offers nut-free alternative. About 200 calories and 7 grams protein per 2-tablespoon serving.
Protein Bars
Quest Bars: ($2-3 per bar) Many flavors gluten-free including Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Cookies & Cream. About 200 calories with 20 grams protein per bar.
Built Bars: ($2-3 per bar) Light, fluffy texture with chocolate coating. Gluten-free varieties available. About 130 calories with 17 grams protein per bar.
ONE Bars: ($2-3 per bar) Birthday Cake and Peanut Butter Pie varieties popular. Gluten-free with about 220 calories and 20 grams protein per bar.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
Many gluten-free snacks also accommodate dairy-free or vegan diets, though some require additional label checking.
Plant-Based Snacks
Hummus: Multiple brands ($3-5 per container) including Sabra, Tribe, and Great Value. All varieties naturally gluten-free and vegan. Pair with gluten-free crackers or vegetables. About 70 calories per 2-tablespoon serving.
Roasted Chickpeas: Biena and Good Bean brands ($4-5 per bag) offer crunchy, protein-rich snacking. Multiple flavors available. About 130 calories and 6 grams protein per serving.
Fruit Strips: Stretch Island and That's It brands ($1 per strip) made from pureed fruit. Naturally gluten-free and vegan. About 45-60 calories per strip.
Dark Chocolate: Enjoy Life chocolate chips and bars ($4-5 per package) are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. About 70 calories per tablespoon (chips) or 190 calories per bar section.
Plant-Based Protein Options
Orgain Protein Bars: ($2-3 per bar) Organic, vegan, and gluten-free. About 150 calories with 10 grams plant protein per bar.
GoMacro Bars: ($2-3 per bar) Organic, vegan, and gluten-free. Multiple flavors combining nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. About 270 calories with 11 grams protein per bar.
For creative vegan recipe ideas that accommodate gluten-free needs, exploring plant-based cooking expands your snack repertoire beyond packaged options.
Budget Shopping Strategies
Gluten-free products often cost more than conventional equivalents, making budget-conscious shopping essential.
Maximizing Value
Choose Store Brands: Great Value gluten-free products typically cost 20-30% less than name brands. Compare nutrition labels—often the only difference is packaging.
Buy Plain, Season at Home: Plain popcorn kernels, nuts, and rice cakes cost less than flavored versions. Add your own seasonings to control ingredients and reduce cross-contamination concerns.
Focus on Naturally Gluten-Free Foods: Fresh produce, eggs, plain dairy, and unprocessed meats never cost extra for being gluten-free because they naturally don't contain gluten.
Watch for Sales: Gluten-free packaged goods frequently go on sale. Stock up on shelf-stable favorites when prices drop.
Use Unit Pricing: Compare per-ounce or per-pound costs between sizes and brands. Larger packages usually offer better value if you'll consume the product before it spoils.
Stretching Your Budget
Understanding how to maximize limited food budgets while managing celiac disease connects to broader food security challenges. Walmart accepts SNAP benefits for all food items, including specialty gluten-free products, helping families access necessary foods within budget constraints.
Reading Labels and Avoiding Hidden Gluten
Gluten hides in unexpected places, making careful label reading essential for safe snacking.
Common Hidden Sources
Malt and Malt Flavoring: Derived from barley, malt appears in flavored chips, some rice cereals, and candy. Products containing malt are not gluten-free.
Wheat-Based Thickeners: Modified food starch, unless specified as corn or another gluten-free source, may contain wheat.
Cross-Contamination in Oats: While oats are naturally gluten-free, they're often processed with wheat. Look for certified gluten-free oats in granola bars and oatmeal products.
Soy Sauce and Teriyaki: Used in some flavored chips and nuts, traditional soy sauce contains wheat. Gluten-free alternatives exist but verify labels on flavored products.
Safe Shopping Practices
Read Every Label: Manufacturers change formulations. Even if you've purchased a product before, verify gluten-free status on current packaging.
Contact Manufacturers When Uncertain: Most companies maintain hotlines or websites where you can verify gluten-free status and cross-contamination protocols.
Join Support Groups: Local and online celiac disease communities share current information about safe products and contamination concerns.
Meal Prep and Storage
Preparing gluten-free snacks in advance ensures you always have safe options available while maximizing budget efficiency.
Weekly Prep Strategies
Portion Bulk Items: Buy large containers of nuts, popcorn, or gluten-free pretzels and divide into single servings. Use small containers or bags to create grab-and-go portions.
Wash and Cut Produce: Prepare fruits and vegetables early in the week. Store properly to maintain freshness—vegetables in water, berries kept dry until consumption.
Make Homemade Options: Preparing your own trail mix, energy balls, or roasted chickpeas gives complete control over ingredients while reducing costs.
Label Everything: When storing snacks in containers, label them clearly to prevent cross-contamination if you're preparing gluten-free foods alongside gluten-containing items for other household members.
Safe Storage
Dedicated Containers: Use separate containers for gluten-free snacks, especially in shared households. This prevents accidental contamination.
Proper Sealing: Keep opened packages sealed tightly to maintain freshness. Many gluten-free crackers and chips become stale faster than wheat-based versions.
Rotation System: Place newer purchases behind older items to ensure you use products before they expire. Gluten-free baked goods often have shorter shelf lives.
Special Considerations for Kids
Children with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity face additional challenges in social situations involving food.
School-Safe Snacks
Pre-Packaged Portions: Individual packages of gluten-free crackers, granola bars, or chips simplify sending safe snacks to school. Clear labeling helps teachers and caregivers identify safe foods.
Nut-Free When Required: Many schools prohibit nuts. Combining gluten-free and nut-free requirements limits options but several brands address both needs—Enjoy Life products avoid both gluten and nuts.
Fun Presentations: Make gluten-free snacking appealing with colorful containers, fun napkins, or creative combinations that help kids feel their snacks are special rather than restrictive.
Educate Your Child: Age-appropriately teach children about reading labels and asking questions about food safety. Empowering them with knowledge protects their health while building confidence.
For families supporting children with multiple challenges, understanding the connection between food security and mental health recognizes how dietary restrictions add stress requiring compassionate support and practical resources.
Building Your Gluten-Free Snack Rotation
Creating variety prevents monotony and ensures balanced nutrition.
Weekly Planning
Mix Categories: Combine crunchy snacks, protein options, fruits, vegetables, and sweet treats throughout the week. Variety provides different nutrients while keeping snacking interesting.
Match to Activities: Pack portable, non-perishable snacks for busy days. Save perishable options for home consumption.
Consider Nutrition Balance: Balance carbohydrate-rich snacks like rice cakes with protein sources like nuts or cheese to stabilize blood sugar and increase satisfaction.
Try New Products Gradually: Introduce one new gluten-free product per shopping trip. This prevents wasting money on items you dislike while expanding options over time.
Sample Weekly Rotation
Monday: Apple slices with almond butter, Skinny Pop popcorn
Tuesday: Greek yogurt with berries, Larabar
Wednesday: Hummus with vegetables, tortilla chips with salsa
Thursday: String cheese, gluten-free pretzels
Friday: Trail mix (nuts and dried fruit), rice cakes with peanut butter
Weekend: Experiment with homemade options or try a new packaged product
Moving Forward with Confidence
Navigating Walmart's gluten-free snack selection becomes easier with practice and knowledge. You don't need to purchase every item mentioned in this guide—start with a few basics that appeal to you, gradually expanding your rotation as you discover new favorites.
Remember that managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity requires vigilance, but it doesn't require deprivation. The growing availability of gluten-free options at mainstream retailers like Walmart makes safe, delicious snacking more accessible than ever before.
Your gluten-free snacking choices matter for your health and well-being. By applying the product recommendations and strategies in this guide, you're taking meaningful steps toward safe, satisfying nutrition that supports your overall health while managing dietary restrictions.
The journey toward confident gluten-free shopping happens one product discovery, one label read, and one successful snack at a time. You're not alone in navigating these decisions—resources exist to support your efforts with education, community connection, and practical assistance when needed.
Bottom TLDR:
Gluten-free snacks at Walmart range from naturally gluten-free whole foods like produce and nuts ($2-10 per pound) to certified packaged products including crackers ($3-6 per box), protein bars ($1-3 each), and chips ($2-5 per bag). Success requires reading every label for gluten-free certification and cross-contamination warnings, focusing on budget-friendly store brands, and preparing snacks weekly to ensure safe options are always available. Start with naturally gluten-free whole foods to maximize nutrition and minimize costs, then add certified packaged products for variety while watching for sales on premium brands.
This guide provides general information about gluten-free snack options available at Walmart. Product availability, formulations, and prices vary by location and change over time. Always read current product labels to verify gluten-free status. Consult healthcare providers or registered dietitians for personalized nutrition advice when managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.