However, snacks (like Cracker Jack’D Popcorn & Pretzels or Cracker Jack’D Caramel & Cheddar) may be gluten-free depending on the flavor—but watch out: many contain wheat-based pretzels.

Cracker Jack, the iconic caramel-coated popcorn and peanut snack with a prize inside, has been a ballpark and lunchbox favorite for over a century. But if you’re avoiding gluten—whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy—you need more than nostalgia. You need facts.

The prize inside isn’t worth the risk. Disclaimer: Product formulations change. Always read the current label. This post is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice.

Even though Cracker Jack’s ingredients don’t include wheat flour, barley malt is enough to make it unsafe. Gluten-free standards (including FDA rules for “gluten-free” labeling) prohibit barley, wheat, and rye. Sugar, popcorn, peanuts, molasses, corn syrup, salt, vegetable oil, malt syrup , soy lecithin, baking soda. The malt syrup is there for that classic deep, toasty caramel flavor. What About “Gluten-Free” Claims on Some Cracker Jack Products? In the past, Frito-Lay (the maker of Cracker Jack) produced limited-edition or seasonal versions labeled “gluten-free.” As of 2025–2026, no widely distributed Cracker Jack product carries a gluten-free claim from the manufacturer.