I’ve been gluten free for slightly over two years now. And at times, the grocery store can still be a challenge. Yes, I know that all fresh fruits, veggies and meats/poultry and cheeses are naturally gluten free. But we live in a world of processed, packaged goods. And most of the time, those goods have gluten in them.
So how are we supposed to know what is “safe” and what isn’t? That’s where the Essential Gluten Free Grocery Guide comes in to help. I received a courtesy copy of this guide a few weeks back, and I have to say, it’s a good book. It’s going to go in the car and stay there, so I always have it handy for those quick last-minute trips to the store.
It’s divided into sections including Dairy & Eggs, Beverages, Baking Aisle, Canned & Pre-packaged Goods, Packaged Sides, Meals and Meal Helpers, Condiments, Sauces and Dressings, Cereal & Bread, Snacks & Convenience Foods, Baby Food & Formula, Frozen Foods, and Meat. The guide features over 30,000 gluten-free products and over 1,000 brands, including top-brands of Kraft, Heinz and Frito-Lay. Who says we can’t shop mainstream?!
Now keep in mind, the info is only as current as when the book was published, and labels and ingredients do change. So it’s always best to check with the manufacturer as well if you’re unsure.
This guide would make a great holiday gift to those newly diagnosed or newly gluten-free challenged. Or even a great gift to a family member who can eat gluten, but cooks for you often. What a great help that would be, wouldn’t it?!
GFS.
Thanks for this Steve. I read it and thought “hmm, I mean I guess it would be helpful for me. Maybe I’d find something I didn’t realize I could eat that would make my life easier. But is it really worth it?” …And then your part about the gift made me remember how great it would be if my gluten-eating boyfriend had a little more guidance when it came to shopping for my stays with him. Looks like someone’s about to get a gluten free present, wether they like it or not! hehe
Oh yeah, I’d heard of that, but I’ve always thought that since I’ve read so much about it and know exactly which things to look for, then what’s the point, but I could see getting that to help my Dad or my extended family when I visit them… Cool idea.
Hey Steve,
I second Dana and Lauren (and your) sentiments about giving this as a gift. Kelli and I are part of two “dinner clubs” with friends, where the host house rotates among friends each week. When other folks are hosting, they often wonder if what they’re making will be safe for me (or they consult me or Kelli). Having a resource like this at-hand would be great!
Cheers, Pete