Frederic Melton
Shake Shack is a popular fast-food chain that offers a variety of gluten-free options for customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. While french fries are typically gluten-free, there is a possibility of cross-contamination with gluten-containing items in the same fryer. Shake Shack's cheese fries are cooked in dedicated fryers, according to some sources, making them gluten-free. However, other sources suggest that the cheese sauce used on the cheese fries may contain gluten, and the company's allergen information indicates a risk of cross-contamination with wheat products. Therefore, it is essential for customers concerned about gluten exposure to carefully review Shake Shack's allergen information and confirm the preparation methods with staff to ensure their meal is safe.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free | Cheese fries are gluten-free when cooked in dedicated fryers |
| Gluten-free ingredients | Potatoes, salt, oil |
| Gluten-free options | Gluten-free buns, lettuce wraps, bacon, cheese fries, chips |
| Gluten-free sides | Cheese fries, bacon cheese fries, double down fries |
| Gluten-free condiments | Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, ShackSauce, Butcher's BBQ sauce, hot sauce |
| Gluten-free shakes | Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry |
| Risk of gluten exposure | May be a risk of gluten exposure due to shared fryers with non-gluten-free options |
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What You'll Learn
The cheese sauce may contain gluten
While Shake Shack's cheese fries are cooked in dedicated fryers, the cheese sauce may contain gluten. The company's allergen information specifies that there is a risk of cross-contamination with wheat products in the cheese sauce. This is because Shake Shack uses the same kitchen equipment to cook both gluten-free and non-gluten-free items, which can lead to cross-contamination.
The cheese sauce is used on several menu items, including the Cheese Fries, Bacon Cheese Fries, and Double Down Fries. While the fries themselves are cooked in dedicated fryers to prevent gluten contamination, the cheese sauce may come into contact with gluten during the preparation process.
It is important to note that Shake Shack does offer gluten-free options for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Their burgers can be ordered with gluten-free buns or wrapped in lettuce, and their chicken sandwiches can also be made gluten-free with a bun substitution. Additionally, their crinkle-cut fries are naturally gluten-free, but there is a risk of cross-contamination if they are cooked in the same oil as gluten-containing items.
To ensure the safety of those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it is recommended to confirm the ingredients and preparation methods of menu items before consuming them. Shake Shack provides allergen information on its website, and customers can also speak to team members to take extra precautions and prevent cross-contamination. While the cheese sauce may contain gluten, other condiments like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and hot sauce are gluten-free options.
In conclusion, while Shake Shack offers gluten-free alternatives and takes measures to prevent cross-contamination, the cheese sauce used on their cheese fries may contain gluten due to potential cross-contamination during preparation. It is advisable for customers to review the allergen information and discuss any concerns with the staff before placing an order.
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Cross-contamination is possible
While Shake Shack's cheese fries are gluten-free, there is a possibility of cross-contamination. This is because Shake Shack's kitchens are not entirely gluten-free, and while they strive to prevent possible cross-contact, there is always a risk.
The cheese sauce used on the cheese fries, for example, may contain gluten. According to Shake Shack's allergen information, its fried 'Shroom Burger patties and fried chicken are made using wheat products, which can contaminate the oil in the fryers. The same oil is used to cook other items, including the fries, which can lead to cross-contamination.
Additionally, Shake Shack's signature Shack Sauce is also at risk of cross-contamination for wheat products. This means that even if the cheese fries themselves are gluten-free, they may come into contact with gluten during the preparation or cooking process.
To minimize the risk of cross-contamination, it is important to inform Shake Shack's team members about your gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. They can take extra precautions, such as using separate equipment and ingredients, to prevent cross-contamination. You can also ask your local Shake Shack if they have dedicated fryers for their fries, as this can help ensure that the fries are gluten-free.
While Shake Shack takes steps to accommodate customers with gluten sensitivities, it is important to remember that cross-contamination can still occur. If you are highly sensitive to gluten, it may be advisable to avoid the cheese fries or take additional precautions to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
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Dedicated fryers are available at some locations
While french fries are typically gluten-free, as their main ingredients are potatoes, salt, and oil, none of which contain gluten, Shake Shack's fries may come into contact with gluten during the cooking process. This is due to the possibility of gluten exposure through the oil used in the fryers, which may be contaminated with wheat products from other menu items, such as the 'Shroom Burger and Chicken Shack sandwich.
Shake Shack acknowledges the potential risk of gluten exposure in their FAQ, stating that the fries are cooked in the same oil as other gluten-containing items. This means that they cannot guarantee that their fries are safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
However, it is important to note that some sources indicate that certain Shake Shack locations may have dedicated fryers for their fries. This means that at these specific locations, the fries are cooked separately from any gluten-containing items, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
When ordering gluten-free at Shake Shack, it is recommended to inform the staff about your gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. By doing so, they can take extra precautions to prevent cross-contamination and suggest the safest options for your needs. Additionally, it is always a good idea to check with your local Shake Shack to confirm the availability of dedicated fryers, as menu offerings and preparation methods can vary by location.
In conclusion, while Shake Shack's cheese fries may be gluten-free in terms of ingredients, the potential for cross-contamination during cooking is a concern. Dedicated fryers at some locations provide an option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy the cheese fries safely. However, it is essential to confirm the preparation methods and take the necessary precautions to ensure a gluten-free dining experience.
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Gluten-free buns are available
While Shake Shack's fries may not be gluten-free, the fast-food chain offers a variety of gluten-free options for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Gluten-free buns are available upon request. These buns are individually packaged to prevent cross-contamination and are suitable for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease.
When ordering a gluten-free bun, Shake Shack staff may ask whether it is due to an allergy or a preference. This is because they have procedures in place to clean workstations and avoid cross-contamination. For instance, they will change their gloves and wipe down surfaces before preparing a gluten-free burger.
In addition to gluten-free buns, Shake Shack offers lettuce wraps or the option to have your burger without a bun. Their burger patties, including the ShackBurger, SmokeShack, and Chick'n Shack, are gluten-free.
While Shake Shack's cheese sauce may contain gluten, their cheese fries are generally considered safe for those who are not highly sensitive to gluten. The cheese fries are cooked in dedicated fryers separate from any gluten-containing items.
Overall, Shake Shack offers a range of gluten-free options and takes precautions to prevent cross-contamination. However, it is always a good idea to confirm the availability of gluten-free buns and preparation methods with staff, as menu offerings can vary by location.
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Other gluten-free options at Shake Shack
Shake Shack has a variety of gluten-free options available, allowing you to customize your meal. While the restaurant is not entirely gluten-free, it offers several gluten-free menu items and alternatives.
The Shake Shack gluten-free bun is certified to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. You can substitute a regular bun with a gluten-free one for any burger or chicken sandwich. If you would prefer to avoid gluten-containing buns altogether, you can opt for a lettuce wrap or go bun-less.
All of Shake Shack's meats, cheeses, and condiments are gluten-free. This includes their burger patties, with all beef, chicken, and veggie patties being safe to eat for those avoiding gluten. The plain and breaded Chick'n Shack fillets are also gluten-free. Bacon lovers will be happy to know that the pork bacon slices are gluten-free, too.
Shakes, custard, and concretes are also gluten-free, and you can customize them with gluten-free mix-ins. Stick to flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, and avoid those with cookie crumbles or graham cracker crust. Additionally, packaged potato chips are a gluten-free snack option.
While Shake Shack offers gluten-free options, there is still a small risk of cross-contamination. It is always recommended to ask about specific ingredients and preparation methods. Informing the staff about your gluten allergy or sensitivity will help ensure extra care is taken to avoid cross-contamination.
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Frequently asked questions
Shake Shack's cheese fries are gluten-free when cooked in dedicated fryers. However, there may be a risk of cross-contamination with wheat products in the facility.
Shake Shack offers gluten-free buns for their burgers and chicken sandwiches. They also have gluten-free shakes, custard, and concretes, which can be customised with gluten-free mix-ins.
Similar to the cheese fries, the regular fries are gluten-free when cooked in dedicated fryers. However, there is a risk of cross-contamination as the oil in the fryers may be filtered through the same kitchen equipment used for non-gluten-free items.
Shake Shack has procedures in place to clean workstations and avoid cross-contamination. You can inform the staff about your gluten sensitivity, and they can take extra precautions. Additionally, you can use their electronic kiosk to indicate your allergy when placing an order.
Yes, bacon and bags of gluten-free chips are available as gluten-free sides.
