Introduction
Finding a reliable gluten and dairy free candy list can often feel like a full-time job. You are usually stuck squinting at tiny font on the back of a packet in a supermarket aisle, hoping you do not spot the word "barley" or "milk" hidden in a long string of ingredients. We know that the craving for something sweet doesn't care about your dietary requirements: it just wants something delicious. Whether you have recently made the switch to plant-based eating or you are managing a long-term intolerance, you deserve treats that taste like the real deal. LoveRaw® was born out of the idea that chocolate should be indulgent first and vegan second, which is why we prioritise flavour over everything else. In this guide, we have rounded up the best sweets and chocolates for 2026 that skip the gluten and the dairy without sacrificing the satisfying snap or velvety texture you love.
Quick Answer: Many popular sweets like Skittles, Starburst, and certain gummy bears are naturally gluten and dairy free, but for a truly indulgent chocolate fix, look for specifically formulated plant-based spreads and bars. Our range of vegan spreads is confirmed to be both gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a safe and legendary choice for your snack cupboard.
The Top Picks for Your Gluten and Dairy Free Candy List
The world of confectionery has come a long way in recent years. Gone are the days when being gluten and dairy-free meant eating a dry, crumbly biscuit that tasted like cardboard. In 2026, the options are broader and better than ever. We have categorised these into fruity classics and indulgent chocolate alternatives so you can find exactly what you are looking for.
The Fruity Classics
Most fruity candies are naturally free from dairy, but gluten can sometimes hide in the thickeners or the dusting used to stop them from sticking. Here are the safest bets for your list:
- Skittles: These are a staple on any gluten and dairy free candy list. Most varieties, including Original and Wild Berry, are safe for those avoiding both.
- Starburst: The UK versions of these chewy treats are generally free from both allergens. Just keep an eye on the packaging for any seasonal changes in the recipe.
- Jelly Tots: These are a classic for a reason. They are famously vegan and do not contain gluten-based ingredients.
- Fruit Pastilles: Most major brands have now transitioned their recipes to be entirely plant-based. They use starch or pectin instead of gelatine, and they are usually gluten-free too.
- Hard Boiled Sweets: Think lemon drops, peppermint swirls, and clear fruit drops. These are almost always just sugar and flavouring, making them a very safe bet.
The Indulgent Chocolate Options
Chocolate is where it gets tricky. Traditional milk chocolate is obviously out, and many dark chocolates are processed on the same lines as dairy. Plus, biscuits and wafers often add gluten into the mix. We believe you should never have to compromise on that rich, chocolatey hit.
Our range of spreads is the perfect solution when you want that deep, nutty flavour. For example, our Vegan Hazelnut Cacao Spread 'Choco Love' is crafted with premium cocoa and coconut sugar. It is completely gluten-free and contains zero dairy or palm oil. If you are more of a white chocolate fan, the Vegan White Hazelnut Spread 'White Hazel Daze' offers that same velvety texture without the gluten.
Key Takeaway: Always look for products that use coconut oil or shea butter as a fat source instead of palm oil or butterfat. These plant-based fats provide a much cleaner melt-in-the-mouth experience and are naturally dairy-free.
Reading Labels Like a Pro
Understanding a label is the best way to keep your gluten and dairy free candy list updated. Manufacturers change their recipes more often than you might think, so a quick check is always worth it.
Spotting Hidden Gluten
Gluten isn't just in flour. In the world of sweets, it often appears as:
- Barley Malt Extract: Frequently used as a flavouring or sweetener in chocolates and crisped rice treats.
- Wheat Starch: Sometimes used in gummies or liquorice to give it that specific chew.
- Glucose Syrup: Whilst often derived from wheat, it is usually processed so heavily that the gluten is removed, but those with extreme sensitivities should still be cautious.
Decoding Dairy-Free
"Dairy-free" and "Vegan" are not always the same thing. A product might be dairy-free by its ingredients but still have a "may contain" warning for milk. This usually happens when the candy is made in a facility that also handles dairy. If you are vegan for lifestyle reasons, you might be okay with this. However, if you have a severe allergy, you need to look for a specific "certified dairy-free" label.
We use M:lk® chocolate as our signature dairy-free alternative. It is designed to mimic the creamy, smooth profile of traditional chocolate but uses plant-based ingredients to achieve that legendary taste. Our Cre&m® filling, which you will find in our vegan wafer bars, is another example of how we have mastered the art of dairy-free indulgence. It is rich, smooth, and genuinely iconic.
Why Quality Ingredients Matter
We'll be honest: some early attempts at gluten and dairy-free chocolate were downright grim. They often relied on cheap fillers and waxy fats that left a coating on the roof of your mouth. We have spent years perfecting our recipes to ensure that every bite has the proper snap and melt.
The Problem with Palm Oil
Many mainstream "free-from" brands use palm oil because it is cheap and keeps products shelf-stable. We refuse to use it. Palm oil is a waxy filler that ruins the delicate flavour of the cocoa and hazelnuts. Instead, we use ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil. These natural plant fats give our spreads and chocolates a superior texture that is actually satisfying to eat.
Natural Sweeteners
In our spreads, we use coconut sugar rather than refined sugar. It provides a more complex, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with roasted hazelnuts. This also makes our spreads a great choice for those who are looking to avoid refined sugar whilst still enjoying a treat.
Recipe: Easy Gluten and Dairy Free Hazelnut Truffles
If you want to add something homemade to your gluten and dairy free candy list, these truffles are a game-changer. They use our Choco Love spread as a base, meaning half the work is already done for you. They are rich, velvety, and perfect for gifting (if you can resist eating them all yourself). For another spread-based truffle idea, try these melt-in-your-mouth citrus chocolate truffles.
- Serves: 12 truffles
- Prep time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 jar (250g) LoveRaw Vegan Hazelnut Cacao Spread 'Choco Love'
- 50g gluten-free oat flour (or finely ground roasted hazelnuts)
- 100g dairy-free dark chocolate, chopped
- A pinch of sea salt
- Optional: Crushed hazelnuts for rolling
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix the Choco Love spread with the gluten-free oat flour and a pinch of salt. Stir until it forms a thick, scoopable paste.
- Place the mixture in the fridge for about 30 to 45 minutes until it is firm enough to roll.
- Once firm, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Place the balls back in the fridge whilst you melt your dark chocolate.
- Melt the dairy-free dark chocolate in a heat-proof bowl over a pan of simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second bursts).
- Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate using a fork, letting the excess drip off.
- If using, sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts immediately.
- Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge until the chocolate shell has set.
Tip: If the mixture is too soft to roll, add an extra tablespoon of ground hazelnuts. The natural oils in the spread can react to the warmth of your kitchen, so keep everything as cool as possible.
Beyond the List: Shopping in 2026
The best place to find a massive variety of gluten and dairy-free treats is often online, but the high street is catching up fast. You can now find our products in stores across the UK, including Tesco. Specifically, you can often find our M:lk Choc Peanut Butter Cups in the Tesco Meal Deal section, making it easier than ever to grab an epic dairy-free snack on the go.
When you are browsing the aisles, do not just stick to the "Free From" section. Many brands are now labelling their mainstream products as vegan or gluten-free on the back of the pack. This is often where the "accidental" gems live.
- Check the bottom of the shelf: Often, smaller, more innovative brands are placed here.
- Look for "No Palm Oil" labels: This is usually a sign of a higher quality product.
- Explore international aisles: Some European or Mediterranean sweets are traditionally made with nuts and honey (though check for honey if you are strictly vegan) and are often naturally gluten-free.
The Future of Plant-Based Treats
We are constantly working on new ways to bring you the best-tasting chocolate on the planet. Smart Organic's expertise in plant-based food is now backing our growth, helping us invest in new product development and reach more chocolate lovers than ever before. We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy a legendary chocolate bar, regardless of their dietary choices.
Whether you are looking for a Pistachio Bliss spread to level up your morning toast or a mixed box of our Butter Cups to share with friends, we have got you covered. Our commitment is to quality, taste, and zero compromises.
Conclusion
Creating a gluten and dairy free candy list doesn't have to be a chore. By focusing on high-quality ingredients and knowing which high-street brands are naturally safe, you can enjoy a wide variety of sweets and chocolates.
- Stick to fruity classics like Skittles and Jelly Tots for an easy fix.
- Choose LoveRaw spreads for a guaranteed gluten-free and dairy-free chocolate experience.
- Always double-check labels for hidden barley or wheat starch.
- Look for palm-oil-free options for a better taste and texture.
Bottom line: You should never have to settle for sub-par sweets just because you are avoiding gluten and dairy.
If you are ready to stock up on the good stuff, our selection of vegan spreads is the perfect place to start.
FAQ
Is all vegan candy also gluten-free?
No, vegan candy is not always gluten-free. Whilst vegan products avoid animal-derived ingredients like milk and gelatine, they may still contain wheat, barley, or rye. Common examples include liquorice, which often uses wheat flour as a binder, or chocolate bars that contain biscuit pieces or wafer. Always check the label for gluten-containing grains even if the product is marked as vegan.
Are LoveRaw products suitable for people with a gluten intolerance?
Our range of spreads, including Choco Love and White Hazel Daze, are confirmed to be gluten-free. However, some of our other products, like our wafer bars, contain rice flour and other ingredients that may be processed in facilities that handle gluten. Please check the packaging for full allergy information, as cross-contamination is possible.
What should I look for on a label to ensure candy is dairy-free?
You should look for a clear "vegan" or "dairy-free" label, but also scan the ingredients for hidden dairy. Avoid terms like whey, casein, milk solids, butterfat, and lactose. Be aware that "lactose-free" does not always mean dairy-free, as some lactose-free products are still made from animal milk. For a safe bet, look for products made with plant-based alternatives like our M:lk chocolate.
Can I find gluten and dairy-free candy in standard UK supermarkets?
Yes, most UK supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Asda have dedicated "Free From" aisles that stock a variety of gluten and dairy-free treats. You can also find "accidentally" safe sweets in the main confectionery aisle, such as Skittles and many dark chocolates. Many LoveRaw products are now available in major retailers, making it easier to find high-quality alternatives alongside your weekly shop.
