Candy corn is a popular Halloween treat that is often avoided by people with peanut allergies due to concerns about cross-contamination. However, most major candy corn manufacturers state their products are produced in peanut-free facilities. This article examines whether candy corn is generally safe for those with peanut allergies and provides tips on how to enjoy Halloween treats safely.
What is candy corn?
Candy corn is a candy made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, confectioner’s wax, artificial coloring, and binders. Traditional candy corn has a yellow tip, orange middle, and white base. It has a mildly sweet flavor and a waxy, chewy texture.
Candy corn was invented in the 1880s and has become a quintessential Halloween candy. During the Halloween season, over 35 million pounds of candy corn are produced in the United States.
Risk of allergens in candy corn
The primary ingredients in candy corn are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions. However, many candies carry a risk of cross-contamination with major food allergens, especially peanuts.
Cross-contamination occurs when an allergenic food comes into contact with a safe food during manufacturing or packaging. Even small amounts of peanut residue can trigger reactions in highly sensitive individuals.
The most significant risk factors for cross-contamination of candy corn include:
- Manufacturing on shared equipment that processes peanuts
- Manufacturing in a facility that also handles peanuts
- Use of ingredients derived from peanuts, like peanut oil or peanut flour
Are major brands of candy corn peanut-free?
Many major candy corn manufacturers state their products are peanut-free. However, individuals with food allergies should always check each candy’s allergen information.
Here are the peanut policies for major candy corn brands:
| Brand | Peanut-Free Status |
|---|---|
| Brach’s | States all candy corn is peanut-free |
| Cracker Jack | States candy corn is made in a peanut-free facility |
| Hershey’s | States plain candy corn is peanut-free but some varieties with inclusions may contain peanuts |
| Bob’s Sweet Stripes | Does not explicitly state candy corn is peanut-free but notes allergen policies |
As shown, major candy corn manufacturers take precautions to avoid peanut cross-contamination. However, peanut policies can change, so checking labels before consuming any candy is essential.
Tips for enjoying candy corn with a peanut allergy
Here are some tips for safely enjoying candy corn with a peanut allergy:
- Read ingredient lists and allergen statements carefully. Avoid candies with advisory warnings like “may contain peanuts.”
- Call the manufacturer if allergen information isn’t on the label. Many provide thorough customer service to address allergy concerns.
- Look for miniature or fun-size candy corn, as those are less likely to be made on equipment shared with peanut candies.
- Stick to plain candy corn without inclusions like peanuts, sprinkles, or chocolate chips.
- Wash hands before sorting through candy to prevent cross-contamination.
- Enjoy non-food treats like Halloween pencils, stickers, or toys as an alternative.
Candy corn allergy-friendly brands
Here are some candy corn products that are labeled peanut-free and safe for those with peanut allergies:
- Brach’s Candy Corn
- Brach’s Harvest Corn – pumpkin spice flavor
- Brach’s Caramel Apple Candy Corn
- Cracker Jack Original Candy Corn
- Hershey’s Candy Corn Snack Size
Can I make my own candy corn?
Making homemade candy corn is an option for enjoying the treat while avoiding factory cross-contamination risks. However, it requires caution to prevent inadvertent allergen exposures.
When making DIY candy corn:
- Ensure all equipment and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized beforehand.
- Use only peanut-free ingredients sourced from sealed packages.
- Store finished candy corn in an airtight container away from any allergens.
- Consider making it peanut-free for others by avoiding peanuts in the home during the process.
Making candy corn from scratch may not be realistic for most people. Purchasing known peanut-free brands tends to be safer and more achievable.
What about organic and non-GMO candy corn?
Some health-conscious shoppers prefer organic and non-GMO candy options. However, these label claims don’t provide reliable information about allergens.
Organic candy corn must meet USDA organic regulations, which mainly focus on ingredients and don’t address allergen risks. Non-GMO verification only covers whether genetically modified ingredients were used.
Don’t assume organic or non-GMO candy is safer for food allergies. The regular precautions still apply: check labels, contact manufacturers, and know how the candy was processed.
Conclusion
Most major candy corn brands are produced in peanut-free facilities and are unlikely to contain traces of peanuts. However, cross-contamination can still occur during processing, transportation, and storage.
The safest approach is to read ingredient statements and allergen advisories before consuming. Reaching out to manufacturers provides an extra layer of assurance. With caution, most people with peanut allergies can enjoy candy corn and other Halloween treats.