We love entertaining and having people over to share meals in our homes. Here are a few tips on how to best serve your gluten-free guests. While we understand this may seem like a daunting list, your efforts will be appreciated and remembered by your friends with celiac disease.

11 Kitchen Tips For Accommodating Gluten-Free Friends

1. Check Every Single Label

Gluten hides in ingredients you may not suspect. Avoid products with ingredient lists containing wheat, barley, rye, oats, malt, soy sauce, flavors, spices, or permitted additives. When in doubt, consult your guest.

2. Avoid Processed Foods

Opt for whole, single-ingredient foods like fruits, vegetables, unprocessed meats, and eggs. This makes it easier to ensure safe ingredients.

3. Purchase Certified Gluten-Free Foods

Look for gluten-free certification symbols on items like cookies, cakes, bread, and crackers. Keep these items packaged until serving, and avoid placing them on the same plate as gluten-containing items.

4. Be Extra Aware of Cross Contamination

Clean every item that will touch gluten-free food thoroughly, including bowls, mixers, utensils, pots and pans, plates, dish rags, sponges, and the countertop. Avoid using a regular toaster for gluten-free bread and refrain from consuming gluten while cooking.

5. Make the Gluten-Free Items First

If preparing both gluten-free and regular versions of a dish, start with the gluten-free version.

6. Open a New Jar for Easily Contaminated Items

Foods from jars, such as mayonnaise, peanut butter, jam, or hummus, can easily be contaminated. Purchase and label a new, gluten-free jar for your guest. Apply the same principle to butter.

7. Have a Plan B

Keep safe snacks or frozen gluten-free meals on hand, especially if a guest is staying for a few days, as a backup in case of accidental contamination.

8. Don’t Be Offended

Be ready to answer questions about ingredients and preparation. Understand that some guests, especially children, may decline certain foods for health reasons, not as a reflection on your cooking. Safety comes first.

9. Communicate Clearly With Your Gluten-Free Guest

Be open about what you can and cannot do in your kitchen. Let your guest see the food preparation process, inform them of the menu in advance, and welcome their input and any dish they'd like to bring.

10. Buffet Etiquette

Allow your gluten-free guest to serve themselves first to minimize the risk of cross-contamination at the buffet. Reserve some of their safe foods in the kitchen to ensure they have uncontaminated options.

11. What To Do If You Are Unsure You Can Make A Safe Meal

Discuss your concerns directly with your guest, ask for help, plan ahead, and consider having your guest bring a favorite dish.

Remember, going to a restaurant isn't always a safer option unless it's a place your gluten-free guest knows well. They will have less control and confidence in ensuring a safe gluten-free meal.