If you’re gluten-free, eating out can be a bit of a challenge. It seems like most restaurants don’t have many options for those of us who are avoiding gluten. But fear not – we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’re going to take a look at the gluten-free menu options at McDonald’s that you should try. So whether you’re in the mood for fries or a burger, we’ve got you covered.
Are McDonald’s Fries Gluten-Free?
Nope, unfortunately not. The fries at McDonald’s are made with wheat flour and milk, so they’re definitely not safe for those who are gluten-free. Moreover, their French fries have a natural beef flavor that gives them their famous taste.
What Do McDonald’s French Fries Include?
Besides wheat flour and milk, McDonald’s fries also include vegetable oil, dextrose, hydrogenated soybean oil, salt, sodium acid pyrophosphate, and natural beef flavor. So if you’re gluten-free and trying to avoid beef, you’re out of luck.
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, kamut, barley, spelt, bulgur, semolina, durum, farro, and rye. It’s what gives bread its chewy texture and helps beer retain its foamy head. For people with celiac disease, consuming gluten can damage the lining of the small intestine, which can lead to a host of other problems.
Gluten is often used as an ingredient to help bind other ingredients together in many foods. For example, in French fries, gluten may be used in a batter which helps make the fry crispy on the outside.
Does McDonald’s Have Gluten-Free Buns?
As for now, unfortunately, the answer is no. McDonald’s does not have any gluten-free buns available and is not going to be introducing any in the near future. Most of their buns contain a lot of wheat.
If you want to eat a McDonald’s sandwich but you can’t have gluten, you can buy a pack of gluten-free buns and take one with you.
Are McDonald’s Hashbrowns Gluten-Free?
No, McDonald’s hashbrowns are not gluten-free. The same potatoes are used for both the French fries and the hashbrowns. Moreover, the hashbrowns have wheat and milk listed as ingredients, just like the French fries do.
In addition to this, there is a high chance that the hashbrowns and French fries will touch each other because they are cooked in the same fryer.
Are McDonald’s Salad Dressings Gluten-Free?
It depends on the salad dressing. There are some that are gluten-free, and others that are not.
The dressings that are gluten-free include:
Newman’s Own Low-Fat Balsamic Vinaigrette
Newman’s Own Ranch Dressing
Newman’s Own Cobb Dressing
Newman’s Own Creamy Caesar Dressing
Does McDonald’s Have a Gluten-Free Menu?
No, McDonald’s does not have a gluten-free menu. That being said, they do have some options that are safe for those who are avoiding gluten.
For example, their eggs, breakfast sausage, and bacon are all gluten-free. However, you should order these items as side ones to make sure that they do not come into contact with any gluten. You can also get apple slices, maple oatmeal, or a parfait without granola and fruit as a gluten-free breakfast snack.
So What Can You Eat If You Are Gluten-Free?
While the options are limited, there are a few things on the McDonald’s menu that are gluten-free.
For example, you can get a plain hamburger without a bun or condiments. Or, you could order a grilled chicken sandwich without the bun. There’s a list of some gluten-free options available:
If you’re in the mood for French fries but can’t have the ones at McDonald’s, don’t worry – there are plenty of other places where you can get your fix. For example, most Five Guys locations across the United States offer gluten-free French fries. You can also find it at some Chick-fil-A or In-N-Out Burger locations.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own French fries at home. All you need is a good gluten-free recipe and some potatoes. With a little effort, you’ll be able to make delicious French fries that are safe for you to eat. And who knows, you might even like them more than the ones at McDonald’s!
Conclusion
As you can see, there are some gluten-free options available at McDonald’s, but unfortunately, the fries are not one of them. However, you can still enjoy a meal there by ordering items from the plain hamburger or grilled chicken sandwich. You could also get a side of eggs, breakfast sausage, or bacon. If you’re looking for a snack, apple slices, maple oatmeal, or parfait without granola and fruit are all good options.
If you’re in the mood for French fries, you can try some from Five Guys, Chick-fil-A, In-N-Out Burger, or even make your own at home. With a little effort, you can still enjoy this classic food even if you’re avoiding gluten.
Have you ever tried any of these gluten-free options from McDonald’s? Let us know in the comments below!
