Andy Montoya
Whether or not Nathan's cheese fries are gluten-free is a question that has been asked by many. While some sources claim that the fries are gluten-free, it is important to note that Nathan's is not a dedicated gluten-free facility and may not be safe for individuals with celiac disease. To ensure the safety of those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it is recommended to contact the establishment directly to inquire about their safety precautions and to ask if their fries are cooked in a dedicated fryer to prevent cross-contamination.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
| May Contain Other Allergens | Yes |
| Dedicated Gluten-Free Facility | No |
| Safe for Celiac Patients | No |
| Separate Fryer for Fries | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Gluten-free cheese fries at Nathan's
If you're craving gluten-free cheese fries, Nathan's Famous may be able to satisfy your appetite. While the restaurant is not a dedicated gluten-free facility and may not be safe for those with celiac disease, some of their menu items are reportedly gluten-free, including their fries.
According to one source, Nathan's Famous Fries, specifically the French Crinkle Cut Jumbo variety, are gluten-free. This claim is supported by the ingredients listed for these fries, which include potatoes, vegetable oil, sugar, disodium dihydrogen pyrophosphate, and dextrose—none of which inherently contain gluten. However, it's worth noting that the vegetable oil used can be canola, palm, soybean, or sunflower oil, and some people with gluten sensitivities may react to soybean oil.
To ensure the gluten-free nature of your cheese fries, it's recommended to ask the staff about their fryer setup. Some sources suggest that the fries are prepared in a dedicated fryer, making them safe from gluten cross-contamination. However, others advise confirming this with the staff, as fryers can be shared with glutenous items, which could affect those with high sensitivity.
When ordering your cheese fries, you can request gluten-free cheese options, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack, to reduce the risk of gluten contamination. Additionally, be cautious of any toppings or seasonings added to the cheese fries, as they may introduce gluten.
Remember, while Nathan's Famous offers gluten-free options, it is not a gluten-free facility. If you have celiac disease or a high sensitivity to gluten, it's always advisable to contact the establishment directly to inquire about their safety precautions and confirm the gluten-free status of their cheese fries.
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Dedicated gluten-free facilities
While Nathan's Famous Fries are gluten-free, their facilities are not dedicated gluten-free. This means that they may not be safe for individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity to gluten. Cross-contamination is a significant concern for gluten-intolerant individuals, and dedicated gluten-free facilities are designed to mitigate this risk.
In a dedicated gluten-free facility, strict protocols are implemented to prevent gluten from entering the premises. This includes separate storage areas for gluten-free ingredients, dedicated gluten-free equipment, and meticulous cleaning procedures to avoid any gluten residue. These measures provide peace of mind for gluten-intolerant individuals, knowing that their food has been prepared in a safe and controlled environment.
For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, dining at establishments with dedicated gluten-free facilities is often the safest option. It eliminates the worry of cross-contamination and ensures that their meal will not compromise their health. While Nathan's cheese fries may be gluten-free, the lack of dedicated gluten-free facilities may deter those with celiac disease from consuming them.
It is always advisable for gluten-intolerant individuals to exercise caution when dining out. Checking with staff about the potential for cross-contamination and inquiring about separate fryers for gluten-free items are essential steps to ensure a safe dining experience. While dedicated gluten-free facilities offer the highest level of assurance, being vigilant and informed is crucial when making food choices.
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Fries cooked in a separate fryer
If you're looking for gluten-free cheese fries, Nathan's Famous may be an option—but it's important to be cautious. While their fries are gluten-free, the preparation methods may vary, and cross-contamination is a concern.
Some sources indicate that Nathan's Famous Fries, specifically the French Crinkle Cut Jumbo variety, are gluten-free. This is confirmed by the ingredients listed on the Fig app, which include potatoes, vegetable oil, sugar, and other gluten-free ingredients.
However, the preparation of the fries is a separate matter. Some Nathan's locations may cook their fries in a dedicated fryer, ensuring they remain gluten-free. However, other locations may use the same fryer for gluten-containing items, which can lead to cross-contamination.
Therefore, it's crucial to inquire about the fryer situation at your specific Nathan's location. Ask the staff about their cooking methods and whether they take precautions to avoid gluten cross-contamination. This is especially important if you have celiac disease, as even a small amount of gluten can be harmful.
Additionally, while the fries themselves may be gluten-free, other items on the menu may not be. Always exercise caution and ask about specific ingredients or cooking methods if you have any concerns.
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Gluten-free app recommendations
It is unclear whether Nathan's cheese fries are gluten-free. While some sources suggest that their fries are gluten-free, others advise asking the staff to ensure that the fries are not fried in the same oil as gluten-containing foods. Cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods can be a concern for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
To make gluten-free living easier, there are several apps available that can provide valuable resources such as recipes, restaurant recommendations, and product information. Here are some highly-rated gluten-free apps with excellent user reviews:
Find Me Gluten Free
Find Me Gluten Free is a highly-rated app designed to help users locate gluten-free restaurants and businesses in their area. It features a database of over 70,000 restaurants reviewed by other gluten-free users, making it convenient to find gluten-free options anywhere. The app allows filtering by location, dietary restriction, and cuisine, and also provides directions and contact information for reservations. It is free to download on the App Store and Google Play, with in-app purchases available.
The Gluten-Free Scanner
The Gluten-Free Scanner is a helpful app that allows users to scan barcodes on food products to determine whether they are gluten-free. With a database of over 500,000 products and ingredients, it provides accurate information about the gluten content of scanned items. This app is also free to download on both the App Store and Google Play, with in-app purchases available.
ShopWell
ShopWell is a barcode scanning app that provides personalized product recommendations based on dietary needs and restrictions, including gluten-free options. It includes a database of over 400,000 products, enabling users to set goals and preferences to find suitable gluten-free products easily. ShopWell is free to download on the App Store and Google Play.
MySymptoms Food Diary
MySymptoms Food Diary is a paid app that helps users track their food intake and symptoms, including gluten intolerance and other dietary restrictions. It features a common foods and symptoms database, making it convenient to log meals and identify patterns. The app is available for purchase on the App Store and Google Play.
SideChef
SideChef is a smart kitchen app that provides personalized recipe recommendations based on dietary preferences and food allergies. It offers various tools, such as timers and step-by-step image instructions, to make cooking easier. SideChef also integrates with compatible smart home appliances, allowing for automated recipe preparation.
These apps can be invaluable tools for those living with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, making it easier to navigate food choices, discover gluten-free options, and manage a gluten-free lifestyle.
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Gluten-free precautions for celiac disease
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale, can cause severe health issues in people with celiac disease. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system attacks the villi in their small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption and leading to malnutrition. Therefore, a strict lifelong gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease.
To prevent adverse health effects, individuals with celiac disease must be cautious about gluten in their diet and take several precautions. Firstly, it is crucial to read labels carefully, as gluten can be hidden in various foods, including processed foods with additives like malt flavouring and modified food starch. Even products labelled "gluten-free" may contain trace amounts of gluten, as the legal limit allows up to 20 parts per million of gluten. Therefore, it is advisable to check with manufacturers if you are unsure about potential gluten cross-contamination.
Secondly, when eating out, it is recommended to inquire about the ingredients and preparation methods of dishes. Ask whether gluten-free options are available and whether separate fryers or utensils are used to prevent cross-contamination. It is also worth noting that some naturally gluten-free foods, such as corn and rice products, may be contaminated with gluten during processing in facilities that also handle wheat products, so vigilance is essential.
Additionally, it is important to be aware that gluten is not limited to food items. It can be found in medicines, vitamins, supplements, and even personal care products like lipsticks and lip balms. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a pharmacist about the gluten content of medications and check ingredient lists for personal care products.
Lastly, while a gluten-free diet is essential for managing celiac disease, it is important to remember that gluten-free does not equate to calorie-free. Portion sizes and nutritional content should still be considered to ensure a balanced and healthy diet. Consulting a dietitian can be helpful in navigating this new dietary approach and ensuring adequate nutrient intake.
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Frequently asked questions
Nathan's Famous is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, so there is a risk of cross-contamination. However, their French Crinkle Cut Jumbo fries are gluten-free, but it is recommended to check with the staff to ensure they are fried separately from glutenous items.
Nathan's Famous offers gluten-free hot dogs, as long as you order them without the bun. Their burgers are also gluten-free, but you will have to eat them without a bun.
Yes, there are several gluten-free options available nearby. For example, In-N-Out offers gluten-free burgers and fries, and Chipotle has gluten-friendly options listed on their website.
