What does fully gluten-free actually mean?

The short answer

A fully gluten-free kitchen prepares no wheat, rye, barley or contaminated oats anywhere on the premises. A gluten-free options cafe makes individual menu items without gluten but still cooks gluten-containing food in the same space.

For most people who avoid gluten by choice, the second option is fine. For coeliacs, only the first option is safe.

What to look for on a menu

• A clear statement that the kitchen is fully gluten-free or coeliac-safe
• Allergen information for every dish, not just a few
• Staff who can answer questions about cross-contact without checking

Cafes doing it well

You can find fully gluten-free kitchens in our directory by filtering for Fully gluten-free. Or browse all gluten-free options to see the broader list.

A quick test before you order

Ask: how do you handle gluten in the kitchen? If the answer is detailed and specific, you are probably in safe hands. If the answer is vague, ask whether they have a separate fryer, separate bench space and separate toaster. A few extra seconds at the counter beats a ruined afternoon.