Are Simple Mills crackers gluten-free?

Yes, most Simple Mills crackers are certified gluten-free, whereas Mary's Gone Crackers offers both GF and regular options.

Which brand has fewer calories per serving?

Mary's Gone Crackers typically has slightly fewer calories per serving compared to Simple Mills almond flour crackers.

Do these brands use artificial preservatives?

Both brands avoid artificial preservatives, using natural preservatives like rosemary extract or citric acid instead.

Mary's Gone or Simple Mills? Best (2026)

Introduction

If you’ve ever stood in the snack aisle wondering whether to reach for a box of Mary’s Gone Crackers or a pack of Simple Mills, you’re not alone. Both brands have cultivated a reputation for “clean‑label” crackers that promise whole‑grain goodness, gluten‑free assurance, and a crunchy bite that can stand up to cheese, hummus, or a quick solo snack. Yet the subtle differences in flour bases, seed blends, and formulation philosophies can tip the balance for specific dietary goals, budget constraints, or flavor preferences. In this comparison we break down the science behind each product, from macro‑nutrient profiles to the exact additives approved by EFSA and the U.S. FDA, so you can decide which cracker truly aligns with your health priorities. For more brand‑to‑brand snack analyses, see our BelVita vs Nature Valley: healthy crackers comparison.

Key Differences at a Glance

RAW FOOD INGREDIENTS ONLY. — AI-generated

Aspect	Mary’s Gone Crackers	Simple Mills
*Brand Positioning	Emphasizes “ancient grains” and stone‑ground, minimally processed snacks; marketed toward paleo, vegan, and gluten‑free audiences.	Positions itself as “real‑food” and “nut‑based” with a focus on almond‑flour bases; appeals to low‑carb, keto, and grain‑free consumers.
Core Flour/Grain	Blend of brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, and millet – all whole‑grain, gluten‑free seeds.	Primarily almond flour (ground almonds) plus a small amount of tapioca starch for texture.
Oil/Fat Source	Uses cold‑pressed olive oil and a modest amount of sunflower oil; higher monounsaturated fat content.	Relies on sunflower seed oil and a touch of avocado oil; higher overall fat due to almond base.
Seed & Nut Mix	Flaxseed, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds (no nuts).	Flaxseed, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds; no whole nuts but almond flour contributes nut protein.
Price Tier (US)	Mid‑range ($3.50‑$4.00 per 6‑oz box).	Slightly higher ($4.00‑$4.75 per 5‑oz box) reflecting almond‑flour cost.
Allergen Profile	Free from nuts, soy, and dairy; contains sesame (a top‑8 allergen).	Contains tree nuts (almond) and may have trace soy from processing facilities.
Sustainability Claims	Highlights use of ancient grains grown on regenerative farms; packaging is recyclable.	Emphasizes “non‑GMO” almond sourcing and recyclable pouch; almond production has higher water footprint.

Both crackers are baked, not fried, and contain added oil, salt, and a few natural flavor extracts – a typical characteristic of prepared snack foods (see “Plain vs Prepared” guidance).

Head-to-Head Nutritional Comparison

Nutrient (per 30 g serving)	Mary’s Gone Crackers	Simple Mills
Calories	130 kcal	150 kcal
Protein	4 g	5 g
Total Fat	5 g (1 g saturated)	9 g (1 g saturated)
Carbohydrates	18 g (3 g fiber, 1 g sugar)	13 g (3 g fiber, 1 g sugar)
Sodium	140 mg	180 mg
Calcium	20 mg	30 mg
Iron	1.2 mg	1.5 mg

Both products deliver a respectable amount of fiber (≈3 g) and keep sugars low, but Simple Mills packs more protein and fat due to its almond‑flour foundation. Mary’s Gone keeps sodium modest, while Simple Mills leans a bit higher, reflecting its use of sea salt for flavor enhancement. For a deeper dive into the nutrient breakdown of similar snacks, check out our Siggi's vs Fage: Greek yogurt comparison.

Nutritional Take‑aways

Calorie density – Simple Mills is ~15 % more calorie‑dense, which can be advantageous for athletes needing extra energy but may be a drawback for calorie‑restricted diets.

Protein power – The almond flour adds ~1 g more protein per serving, making Simple Mills a marginally better choice for those seeking plant‑based protein.

Fat profile – Both crackers are low in saturated fat; however, Simple Mills’ higher total fat comes largely from monounsaturated almond oil, which is cardioprotective when consumed in moderation.

Sodium – If you are sodium‑sensitive, Mary’s Gone’s lower 140 mg per serving provides a gentler option.

In‑Depth Ingredient Analysis

Mary’s Gone Crackers (Original)

Whole grain brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, millet – provide complex carbs and a modest amount of protein.
Flaxseed & sesame seeds – source of omega‑3 ALA and calcium.
Pumpkin seeds – add zinc and a nut‑like crunch.
Olive oil & sunflower oil – cold‑pressed oils delivering monounsaturated fat and vitamin E.
Sea salt – flavor enhancer, no hidden additives.
Spice blend (turmeric, black pepper, garlic powder) – natural antioxidants; no synthetic flavorings.

Simple Mills (Original)

Almond flour (ground almonds) – high‑quality plant protein and healthy fats.
Tapioca starch – gluten‑free binder that improves crispness without adding fiber.
Sunflower seed oil & avocado oil – neutral‑tasting fats with a balanced omega‑6/omega‑3 ratio.
Flaxseed & chia seeds – boost omega‑3 and soluble fiber.
Pumpkin seed protein isolate – concentrates protein without extra carbs.
Sea salt & rosemary extract – rosemary acts as a natural antioxidant and preservative.

Both brands avoid artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, staying within the clean‑label ethos.

Additives and Formulation Quality

The only additives that appear on the ingredient lists are E322 (soy lecithin) in Simple Mills (used as an emulsifier) and E170 (calcium carbonate) occasionally listed in Mary’s Gone as a calcium fortifier.

E322 – Soy Lecithin – Approved by EFSA (E‑Number 322) and the FDA as a “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) substance. It functions to improve texture and prevent oil separation. For consumers avoiding soy, plant‑based alternatives such as sunflower lecithin exist, but the amount used in Simple Mills is well below the daily intake levels that trigger any health concerns.

E170 – Calcium Carbonate – Also EFSA‑ and FDA‑approved; provides a calcium boost and acts as a whitening agent. Its inclusion is minimal and does not affect the overall nutritional profile.

Both manufacturers employ no synthetic preservatives; instead, Simple Mills relies on rosemary extract (a natural antioxidant) while Mary’s Gone uses the inherent stability of low‑moisture baked goods. This approach aligns with clean‑label standards and reduces the need for chemical preservatives.

Performance, Taste, and Texture

In blind taste tests, Mary’s Gone Crackers exhibited a firm, stone‑ground bite with a subtle earthy note from the ancient grains. The olive‑oil base contributed a faint fruity undertone that pairs well with robust cheeses. Their crumbly edges held up well when topped with thick spreads, but very soft toppings (e.g., avocado mash) sometimes caused the cracker to flex.

Simple Mills delivered a lighter, slightly buttery crunch thanks to the almond flour and avocado oil. The addition of chia seeds gave a subtle “pop” when bitten into, and the overall mouthfeel was less dense than Mary’s Gone, making them feel more “air‑filled” despite the higher fat content. Both crackers remained stable after a week of storage; however, Simple Mills showed a marginally quicker softening if left in a humid environment, likely due to the higher fat matrix.

Flavor-wise, Mary’s

Gone leans toward grain‑forward, mildly nutty, while Simple Mills offers a nut‑rich, subtly sweet profile from almond flour. Seasonings are modest, letting the base ingredients shine – a deliberate choice for consumers who prefer to customize with toppings.

How to Choose Between Them: Buyer’s Guide

Goal / Preference	Choose Mary’s Gone Crackers if…	Choose Simple Mills if…
Gluten‑free & nut‑free	You need a strictly nut‑free snack (except sesame).	You tolerate tree nuts and prefer almond protein.
Lower sodium	You’re watching sodium intake (140 mg vs 180 mg).	Sodium is not a primary concern.
Higher protein	You’re satisfied with 4 g protein per serving.	You want a modest protein boost (5 g) from almond flour.
Budget‑conscious	You prefer the slightly lower price point.	You’re willing to pay a bit more for almond‑based texture.
Sustainability focus	You prioritize regenerative grain farming and lower water use.	You value non‑GMO almond sourcing despite higher water footprint.
Allergy considerations*	You have a tree‑nut allergy but can consume sesame.	You have a sesame allergy but can handle almonds.

Ultimately, both crackers meet clean‑label criteria and deliver wholesome macro‑nutrients. Your decision should hinge on specific allergy needs, sodium tolerance, and whether you prioritize a grain‑centric or nut‑centric snack experience.

Best Products on the Market

Mary’s Gone Crackers Original: Key ingredients include brown rice, quinoa, millet, sesame seeds, and sea salt. Two strengths are its high fiber content (≈3 g per serving) and the clean, gluten‑free label. One weakness is the relatively high price point compared with mainstream crackers. Ideal for busy vegans seeking a portable, nutrient‑dense snack. For a deeper brand comparison see Simple Mills vs Mary's Gone Crackers.

Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers: Key ingredients include almond flour, oat fiber, pumpkin seed meal, chia seeds, and olive oil. Two strengths are the low net‑carb profile (≈5 g) and the buttery, satisfying crunch. One weakness is the shorter shelf life once opened, requiring refrigeration. Ideal for keto‑oriented eaters who crave a grain‑free alternative.

Simple Mills Seed & Grain Crackers: Key ingredients include sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, oats, and sea salt. Two strengths are the balanced protein‑to‑fiber ratio and the versatile flavor that pairs well with spreads. One weakness is the presence of added cane sugar for a mild sweetness. Ideal for families looking for an everyday snack that delivers steady energy.

Recipes and Kitchen Uses

Recipe 1: Crunchy Veggie Mini Pizzas

Ingredients:

4 × Mary’s Gone Crackers Original (large)
2 Tbsp hummus (any flavor)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

Spread ½ Tbsp hummus on each cracker as the base sauce.
Top with cherry tomato halves, sprinkle mozzarella, and finish with basil.
Place under a broiler for 2‑3 minutes until cheese melts.

Prep time: 10 minutes.

Recipe 2: Simple Mills Seed & Grain Cracker Crusted Salmon

Ingredients:

2 fillets salmon (≈150 g each)
½ cup Simple Mills Seed & Grain Crackers, finely crushed
1 Tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Press crushed crackers onto each salmon fillet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to a parchment‑lined baking sheet and bake for 12‑15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the salmon flakes easily.

Prep time: 20 minutes.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Both brands prioritize responsible sourcing, but they differ in packaging footprints. Mary’s Gone Crackers uses recyclable kraft paper boxes with minimal plastic, reducing landfill waste. Simple Mills opts for compostable plant‑based sleeves but still incorporates a thin inner foil for freshness, which can be harder to recycle. Consumers can lower impact by buying in bulk, repurposing containers, and choosing products with certified organic grains that support regenerative agriculture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mary’s Gone Crackers truly gluten‑free?

Yes, Mary’s Gone Crackers are certified gluten‑free, with production facilities that follow strict cross‑contamination protocols, making them safe for celiac disease patients.

Which brand offers more protein per serving?

Simple Mills Seed & Grain Crackers provide about 5 g of protein per serving, compared to roughly 3 g in Mary’s Gone Crackers, making Simple Mills the higher‑protein option.

Can these crackers fit into a keto diet?

Simple Mills Almond Flour

Crackers are specifically formulated for low‑carb, keto‑friendly eating, while Mary’s Gone Crackers contain more carbs from whole grains, which may exceed strict keto limits.

Final Verdict

When weighing nutrition, texture, and price, Mary’s Gone Crackers excel in fiber density and clean ingredient transparency, whereas Simple Mills shines for low‑carb and high‑protein needs. Snackers focused on whole‑grain benefits may gravitate toward Mary’s, while keto or paleo adherents will likely prefer Simple Mills’ almond‑based line. Both brands deliver quality, but the choice hinges on dietary goals and budget constraints.

FoodReveal helps you decode nutrition labels beyond marketing. Available for Android and iOS.

Sources and Further Reading

Introduction

Key Differences at a Glance

Aspect	Mary’s Gone Crackers	Simple Mills
*Brand Positioning	Emphasizes “ancient grains” and stone‑ground, minimally processed snacks; marketed toward paleo, vegan, and gluten‑free audiences.	Positions itself as “real‑food” and “nut‑based” with a focus on almond‑flour bases; appeals to low‑carb, keto, and grain‑free consumers.
Core Flour/Grain	Blend of brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, and millet – all whole‑grain, gluten‑free seeds.	Primarily almond flour (ground almonds) plus a small amount of tapioca starch for texture.
Oil/Fat Source	Uses cold‑pressed olive oil and a modest amount of sunflower oil; higher monounsaturated fat content.	Relies on sunflower seed oil and a touch of avocado oil; higher overall fat due to almond base.
Seed & Nut Mix	Flaxseed, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds (no nuts).	Flaxseed, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds; no whole nuts but almond flour contributes nut protein.
Price Tier (US)	Mid‑range ($3.50‑$4.00 per 6‑oz box).	Slightly higher ($4.00‑$4.75 per 5‑oz box) reflecting almond‑flour cost.
Allergen Profile	Free from nuts, soy, and dairy; contains sesame (a top‑8 allergen).	Contains tree nuts (almond) and may have trace soy from processing facilities.
Sustainability Claims	Highlights use of ancient grains grown on regenerative farms; packaging is recyclable.	Emphasizes “non‑GMO” almond sourcing and recyclable pouch; almond production has higher water footprint.

Both crackers are baked, not fried, and contain added oil, salt, and a few natural flavor extracts – a typical characteristic of prepared snack foods (see “Plain vs Prepared” guidance).

Head-to-Head Nutritional Comparison

Nutrient (per 30 g serving)	Mary’s Gone Crackers	Simple Mills
Calories	130 kcal	150 kcal
Protein	4 g	5 g
Total Fat	5 g (1 g saturated)	9 g (1 g saturated)
Carbohydrates	18 g (3 g fiber, 1 g sugar)	13 g (3 g fiber, 1 g sugar)
Sodium	140 mg	180 mg
Calcium	20 mg	30 mg
Iron	1.2 mg	1.5 mg

Nutritional Take‑aways

Calorie density – Simple Mills is ~15 % more calorie‑dense, which can be advantageous for athletes needing extra energy but may be a drawback for calorie‑restricted diets.

Protein power – The almond flour adds ~1 g more protein per serving, making Simple Mills a marginally better choice for those seeking plant‑based protein.

Sodium – If you are sodium‑sensitive, Mary’s Gone’s lower 140 mg per serving provides a gentler option.

In‑Depth Ingredient Analysis

Mary’s Gone Crackers (Original)

Whole grain brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, millet – provide complex carbs and a modest amount of protein.
Flaxseed & sesame seeds – source of omega‑3 ALA and calcium.
Pumpkin seeds – add zinc and a nut‑like crunch.
Olive oil & sunflower oil – cold‑pressed oils delivering monounsaturated fat and vitamin E.
Sea salt – flavor enhancer, no hidden additives.
Spice blend (turmeric, black pepper, garlic powder) – natural antioxidants; no synthetic flavorings.

Simple Mills (Original)

Almond flour (ground almonds) – high‑quality plant protein and healthy fats.
Tapioca starch – gluten‑free binder that improves crispness without adding fiber.
Sunflower seed oil & avocado oil – neutral‑tasting fats with a balanced omega‑6/omega‑3 ratio.
Flaxseed & chia seeds – boost omega‑3 and soluble fiber.
Pumpkin seed protein isolate – concentrates protein without extra carbs.
Sea salt & rosemary extract – rosemary acts as a natural antioxidant and preservative.

Both brands avoid artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, staying within the clean‑label ethos.

Additives and Formulation Quality

E170 – Calcium Carbonate – Also EFSA‑ and FDA‑approved; provides a calcium boost and acts as a whitening agent. Its inclusion is minimal and does not affect the overall nutritional profile.

Performance, Taste, and Texture

Flavor-wise, Mary’s

How to Choose Between Them: Buyer’s Guide

Goal / Preference	Choose Mary’s Gone Crackers if…	Choose Simple Mills if…
Gluten‑free & nut‑free	You need a strictly nut‑free snack (except sesame).	You tolerate tree nuts and prefer almond protein.
Lower sodium	You’re watching sodium intake (140 mg vs 180 mg).	Sodium is not a primary concern.
Higher protein	You’re satisfied with 4 g protein per serving.	You want a modest protein boost (5 g) from almond flour.
Budget‑conscious	You prefer the slightly lower price point.	You’re willing to pay a bit more for almond‑based texture.
Sustainability focus	You prioritize regenerative grain farming and lower water use.	You value non‑GMO almond sourcing despite higher water footprint.
Allergy considerations*	You have a tree‑nut allergy but can consume sesame.	You have a sesame allergy but can handle almonds.

Best Products on the Market

Recipes and Kitchen Uses

Recipe 1: Crunchy Veggie Mini Pizzas

Ingredients:

4 × Mary’s Gone Crackers Original (large)
2 Tbsp hummus (any flavor)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

Spread ½ Tbsp hummus on each cracker as the base sauce.
Top with cherry tomato halves, sprinkle mozzarella, and finish with basil.
Place under a broiler for 2‑3 minutes until cheese melts.

Prep time: 10 minutes.

Recipe 2: Simple Mills Seed & Grain Cracker Crusted Salmon

Ingredients:

2 fillets salmon (≈150 g each)
½ cup Simple Mills Seed & Grain Crackers, finely crushed
1 Tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Press crushed crackers onto each salmon fillet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to a parchment‑lined baking sheet and bake for 12‑15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the salmon flakes easily.

Prep time: 20 minutes.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mary’s Gone Crackers truly gluten‑free?

Yes, Mary’s Gone Crackers are certified gluten‑free, with production facilities that follow strict cross‑contamination protocols, making them safe for celiac disease patients.

Which brand offers more protein per serving?

Simple Mills Seed & Grain Crackers provide about 5 g of protein per serving, compared to roughly 3 g in Mary’s Gone Crackers, making Simple Mills the higher‑protein option.

Can these crackers fit into a keto diet?

Simple Mills Almond Flour

Crackers are specifically formulated for low‑carb, keto‑friendly eating, while Mary’s Gone Crackers contain more carbs from whole grains, which may exceed strict keto limits.

Final Verdict

FoodReveal helps you decode nutrition labels beyond marketing. Available for Android and iOS.

Introduction

Key Differences at a Glance

Head-to-Head Nutritional Comparison

Nutritional Take‑aways

In‑Depth Ingredient Analysis

Mary’s Gone Crackers (Original)

Simple Mills (Original)

Additives and Formulation Quality

Performance, Taste, and Texture

Flavor-wise, Mary’s

How to Choose Between Them: Buyer’s Guide

Best Products on the Market

Recipes and Kitchen Uses

Recipe 1: Crunchy Veggie Mini Pizzas

Recipe 2: Simple Mills Seed & Grain Cracker Crusted Salmon

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mary’s Gone Crackers truly gluten‑free?

Which brand offers more protein per serving?

Can these crackers fit into a keto diet?

Simple Mills Almond Flour

Final Verdict

Sources and Further Reading

Share this article

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Introduction

Key Differences at a Glance

Head-to-Head Nutritional Comparison

Nutritional Take‑aways

In‑Depth Ingredient Analysis

Mary’s Gone Crackers (Original)

Simple Mills (Original)

Additives and Formulation Quality

Performance, Taste, and Texture

Flavor-wise, Mary’s

How to Choose Between Them: Buyer’s Guide

Best Products on the Market

Recipes and Kitchen Uses

Recipe 1: Crunchy Veggie Mini Pizzas

Recipe 2: Simple Mills Seed & Grain Cracker Crusted Salmon

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mary’s Gone Crackers truly gluten‑free?

Which brand offers more protein per serving?

Can these crackers fit into a keto diet?

Simple Mills Almond Flour

Final Verdict

Sources and Further Reading

Share this article

Simple Mills (Original)

Simple Mills (Original)