Finding snacks for your kids that do not contain gluten can seem a little daunting at first, but there are plenty of options out there. Here are some further ideas for tasty and nutritious snacks that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Healthy fruit roll-ups
Making your own fruit leathers is simple and avoids all the added colourings and preservatives that are present in commercial varieties. You just have to dehydrate the fruit puree slowly, until it turns solid and chewy.
Baked cinnamon apple chips
Bake thinly sliced apples in the oven on a low temperature for two to three hours. If you like, you can sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar.
DIY freezer protein bars
These consist of almonds, cashews and puffed rice, bound together with maple syrup and almond butter. Keeping them in the freezer means that you can take one out any time and they can be eaten straight from the freezer.
Gluten free buffalo sauce popcorn
Pop corn at home and flavour it with gluten free buffalo sauce. Making your own avoids feeding your child unhealthy additives.
Goldfish crackers
These cheesy fish-shaped biscuits are made with almond flour instead of wheat flour. They provide extra protein, as well as tasty gluten free snacks.
Crispy baked kale chips
Toss kale in olive oil and bake until crispy – a brilliant way to encourage kids to eat vegetables.
Strawberry-banana blender muffins
Blend strawberries, chopped bananas and oats together and bake the batter in muffin tins.
No-crust gluten free pizza bites
Use thick-cut bacon as a base for your pizza toppings, instead of dough. All the taste will be there without the gluten.
Apple cookies
Spread apple slices with peanut butter and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Kids love these sweet treats.
Baked gluten free mozzarella sticks
Freeze mozzarella sticks for an hour. Remove from the freezer and dip them in beaten egg and gluten free breadcrumbs. Bake for about five minutes, turning halfway through. What actually is Gluten? According to Popular Science, it is a mixture of proteins that are found mostly in wheat, but which are also present in barley, rye, and oats.
Because gluten is found in so many foods, you have to be very vigilant if your child has a gluten sensitivity, and always read the labels on any processed foods you buy.