Finding the right balance of nutritious, delicious, and autism-friendly packaged foods can be challenging for parents. For children on the autism spectrum, diet plays a critical role in managing symptoms and promoting overall health. Many children with autism benefit from following gluten-free and dairy-free diets, which can support better digestion, reduce inflammation, and improve behavior and communication. With so many packaged food products available, it's important to identify the healthiest options to fit your child’s needs without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Why Choose Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Foods for Kids with Autism?

Research suggests that many children with autism may have difficulty processing gluten and casein (a protein found in dairy products). Gluten, found in wheat and related grains, and casein, found in milk and cheese, can be inflammatory for some children, leading to digestive issues, behavioral challenges, and other symptoms common in autism. Adopting a gluten-free and dairy-free (GF/DF) diet has been associated with improvements in gut health, mood regulation, and attention span for some kids on the spectrum.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, gluten-free and dairy-free foods can support many children with autism by minimizing exposure to inflammatory triggers. Packaged foods, when chosen wisely, can be an excellent addition to a child’s GF/DF diet, especially for busy parents looking for quick and healthy snack options.

Top Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Packaged Food Brands for Kids with Autism

Here’s a closer look at some trusted brands offering gluten-free and dairy-free foods that are not only healthy but also appealing to kids.

1. Siete Foods

Siete Foods is known for its clean, allergen-friendly products, which are completely gluten-free and dairy-free. This family-owned company offers a variety of delicious snacks that are perfect for children with autism and sensitivities to gluten and dairy.

Best products:
- Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips: Made from cassava, coconut flour, and chia seeds, these tortilla chips are a great alternative to traditional chips. They come in flavors like Sea Salt, Lime, and Nacho, offering a healthy and tasty snack.
- Siete Grain-Free Tortillas: These grain-free tortillas are perfect for wrapping up your child’s favorite fillings. Made with cassava and coconut flour, they are nutrient-dense and free from common allergens.
- Siete Hot Sauces and Dips: Pair their tortilla chips with Siete’s clean hot sauces and dairy-free queso dips for a flavorful snack that’s free from inflammatory ingredients.

Siete’s products are free from artificial preservatives, added sugars, and harmful additives, making them a wholesome choice for children with autism. Their chips and tortillas are not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also grain-free, which can further support digestive health.

2. Simple Mills

Simple Mills focuses on creating simple, wholesome foods using minimal ingredients. Their gluten-free and dairy-free offerings are crafted from nutrient-rich whole foods like almonds, coconut, and cassava. However, it’s important to check labels carefully, as some of their products may contain dairy.

Best products:
- Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers: Made with almond flour, these crackers are a great source of protein and healthy fats. They come in flavors like Sea Salt, Rosemary & Sea Salt, and Fine Ground Sea Salt, offering a crunchy, savory snack.
- Simple Mills Crunchy Cookies: These gluten-free cookies are made from clean ingredients like almond flour, coconut sugar, and flax seeds. Flavors include Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon, and Double Chocolate, making them a great treat for kids.
- Simple Mills Pancake & Waffle Mix: This gluten-free and dairy-free mix allows parents to quickly prepare a nutritious breakfast. It’s made with almond flour and coconut flour, providing a healthy alternative to traditional pancake mixes.

Simple Mills emphasizes using real, whole ingredients with minimal processing. Their focus on clean nutrition makes them a great option for families looking for gluten-free and dairy-free snacks that don’t compromise on health or flavor.

3. Enjoy Life Foods

Enjoy Life is a top choice for allergy-friendly snacks, as all of their products are certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from the top 14 allergens. This makes their entire line of foods safe for children with multiple food sensitivities, including those with autism.

Best products:
- Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips: These dairy-free, nut-free, and gluten-free chocolate chips are perfect for baking or enjoying straight out of the bag. Made from simple ingredients like cocoa and sugar, they are a guilt-free treat for kids with autism.
- Enjoy Life Soft Baked Cookies: These cookies are available in flavors like Snickerdoodle, Chocolate Chip, and Double Chocolate Brownie, offering a soft and chewy snack option free from common allergens.
- Enjoy Life Seed & Fruit Mixes: These healthy, allergen-free trail mixes are great for on-the-go snacking. They combine seeds like sunflower and pumpkin with dried fruit for a balanced, nutrient-dense snack.

Enjoy Life is dedicated to making allergen-free foods accessible to everyone. Their snacks are free from gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial ingredients, making them a top choice for parents seeking clean, autism-friendly foods.

4. Mary’s Gone Crackers

Mary’s Gone Crackers is known for their gluten-free and dairy-free crackers made from whole grains and seeds. These nutrient-packed snacks are perfect for kids with autism who need a crunchy, satisfying snack that’s also easy on digestion.

Best products:
- Mary’s Gone Crackers Original Crackers: Made with organic brown rice, quinoa, flax seeds, and sesame seeds, these crackers are nutrient-dense and full of fiber. They are free from gluten, dairy, soy, and corn, making them a clean option for kids with sensitivities.
- Mary’s Gone Crackers Super Seed Crackers: These crackers add extra seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, and chia to the mix, offering an even higher boost of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

The combination of whole grains and seeds makes Mary’s Gone Crackers a great choice for supporting gut health and providing long-lasting energy. These crackers pair well with spreads like hummus or dairy-free cheese, making them a versatile snack option.

5. MadeGood

MadeGood focuses on creating allergen-friendly snacks that are also rich in hidden vegetables, making them a nutritious option for children with autism who may be picky eaters. All MadeGood products are certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from the top 8 allergens.

Best products:
- MadeGood Granola Bars: These soft, chewy granola bars are packed with nutrients from ingredients like oats, brown rice, and vegetable extracts (like spinach, broccoli, and beets). Flavors include Chocolate Chip, Mixed Berry, and Apple Cinnamon, making them appealing to kids.
- MadeGood Crispy Squares: These gluten-free crispy treats are a healthier take on traditional rice crispy squares. Made with organic ingredients and enriched with vegetables, they offer a sweet snack that’s still packed with nutrition.
- MadeGood Soft Baked Mini Cookies: These bite-sized cookies come in flavors like Chocolate Chip and Sweet Cinnamon. They are made with clean ingredients and contain a hidden serving of vegetables in each bag, adding extra nutrition to a sweet treat.

MadeGood snacks are ideal for children with autism who may need extra nutrient support. The inclusion of hidden vegetables in their products ensures that kids get a dose of important vitamins and minerals, even in their snacks.

6. Larabars

Larabars are known for their simplicity, containing only a few whole-food ingredients like dates, nuts, and fruits. They are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them an easy, on-the-go snack option for kids with autism.

Best products:
- Larabar Original Bars: These bars come in flavors like Apple Pie, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, and Blueberry Muffin. They are made with just a handful of ingredients, such as dates, almonds, and dried fruits, offering a sweet and satisfying snack.
- Larabar Kids: These smaller, kid-friendly versions of Larabars are perfect for lunchboxes and snack time. Flavors include Chocolate Brownie, Cinnamon Swirl, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, all made with simple, whole ingredients.

Larabars are a great option for parents seeking minimally processed snacks that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and allergens. Their clean ingredient list makes them ideal for children with autism who follow a gluten-free and dairy-free diet.

Tips for Choosing Packaged Foods for Kids with Autism

When selecting packaged foods for children with autism, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:

Read Labels Carefully: Always check ingredient labels to ensure products are truly gluten-free and dairy-free. Some brands may offer a mix of gluten-free and conventional options, so it’s important to confirm that the specific product you’re purchasing is free from allergens.
Prioritize Whole Foods: Look for products made from whole, nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid snacks high in added sugars, artificial preservatives, and unhealthy fats.
Choose Nutrient-Dense Snacks: Packaged snacks don’t have to be “empty calories.” Opt for products that contain healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep your child satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Watch for Hidden Allergens: Some packaged foods labeled “gluten-free” may still contain traces of dairy or soy. Check for allergen statements and opt for products that are certified by trusted third-party organizations.

Navigating the world of gluten-free and dairy-free packaged foods for kids with autism doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing products from trusted brands like Siete, Simple Mills, Enjoy Life, Mary’s Gone Crackers, MadeGood, and Larabars, parents can feel confident that they’re providing their children with healthy, nutrient-dense snacks that support their unique dietary needs. With a little label-checking and smart shopping, gluten-free and dairy-free snacking can be both convenient and nutritious, helping your child thrive on their autism-friendly diet.

The Healthiest Packaged Foods for Kids with Autism: A Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Guide