Gluten-Free Grilling and Barbecue Tips
By Lana Bandoim
People with celiac disease need to take extra precautions while grilling and barbecuing to avoid gluten. They have to follow a strict gluten-free diet because of this autoimmune disease. However, you can still enjoy a delicious burger that is safe for celiac disease.
Clean the Grill
Most cooks start by cleaning the grill, and people with celiac disease do not want to skip this step. However, it is important to remember that gluten is a sticky protein and cannot be burned off. It can survive high temperatures. Consider using a grill that has never been in contact with gluten or use foil to make sure the food does not come in contact with the grill’s surface.
Check the Meat and Other Food
In general, fresh meat, fruit and vegetables are naturally gluten-free. However, precooked and packaged products may have added gluten ingredients. Make sure to check labels and read all the ingredients before putting them on the grill. It is common to find gluten fillers in meat such as wheat.
Check Spices, Sauces and Seasoning
No one wants bland food during a barbecue, but people with celiac disease have to be careful. It is important to check all seasoning packets and bottles for gluten. Even spices such as black pepper may be contaminated with gluten during processing or packaging, so brands have to declare the presence of gluten. In addition, you have to check all the sauces. Many people use marinades or sauces while barbecuing and grilling. Make sure they are also gluten-free and safe for people to eat.
Avoid Outside Food
Some people let guests bring side dishes or other food to a barbecue. Unfortunately, this can be dangerous for people with celiac disease because people who are not on the gluten-freed diet usually prepare the food. This means that their kitchens are contaminated with gluten and pose a risk. Even if they make a gluten-free dish, it can be a problem. For example, they can make a gluten-free potato salad using utensils, cutting boards and dishes that have previously been in contact with gluten. Some people can react to a single crumb containing gluten, so it is not worth the risk.
You may want to allow people who are also on the gluten-free diet to bring food to the barbecue. In addition, packaged products that are labeled gluten-free are also safe.
It is still possible to have a fun barbecue when you have celiac disease. Pay attention to these tips and only grill gluten-free items.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peachtree City, Ga.