A common concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity when dining out is the risk of cross-contamination, especially with fried foods. Many restaurant chains use shared fryers for items containing gluten, making fries and other "naturally" gluten-free products unsafe. Fortunately, when it comes to Five Guys, the answer is a reassuring one for fry lovers. According to the company's official FAQs and confirmed by numerous gluten-free dining resources, Five Guys does, in fact, have a dedicated gluten-free fryer, used exclusively for their popular french fries. This practice significantly reduces the risk of gluten cross-contact, making their fries a reliable and delicious option for many on a gluten-free diet. The dedication to this practice is a key component of their allergen management strategy, which is transparently documented for consumers.
Five Guys' Dedicated Fryer for Fries
Five Guys' fries are one of their most celebrated menu items, and their preparation method is a key part of their appeal. The process involves hand-cutting fresh potatoes daily, soaking them in water to remove excess starch, and then frying them twice to achieve their signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior. The crucial detail for those avoiding gluten is that this frying process takes place in dedicated, separate fryers that are used solely for potatoes. No breaded items, onion rings, or any other products containing gluten ever enter these fryers. This policy is a huge relief for many who have learned to be wary of ordering fried items at restaurants. The separate fryers, combined with a gluten-free ingredient list for both the Five Guys Style and Cajun Style fries, mean that the final product is inherently safe from fryer-based cross-contamination.
What About the Oil?
Five Guys uses 100% refined peanut oil for all its frying. For many people with peanut allergies, this might be a concern, but it's important to understand the distinction between refined and unrefined oils. Highly refined peanut oil undergoes a process that removes the allergenic peanut protein, making it safe for most individuals with a peanut allergy to consume. However, the presence of loose peanuts in the restaurant's dining area remains a significant risk for those with severe airborne or contact-based peanut allergies, so caution is always advised. For those concerned primarily with gluten, the use of refined peanut oil poses no additional risk.
The Caveat of Cross-Contamination
While the dedicated fryer is a major win, it's crucial for those with severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to remember that Five Guys is not a gluten-free restaurant. The risk of cross-contamination, though minimized in the frying process, can still occur in other areas of the kitchen.
Shared Spaces and Surfaces
Five Guys operates with open kitchens, meaning customers can observe the food preparation process. However, the open layout means that gluten-containing buns and other items are handled in close proximity to the lettuce wraps and bowls used for gluten-free orders. For example, grilled onions and mushrooms are prepared on the same surface as toasted buns, which can present a high risk of cross-contact. When ordering, it is essential to communicate your allergy clearly to the cashier and request that the preparer change gloves and use a clean surface.
Toppings and Milkshakes
Most of Five Guys' toppings, from lettuce and tomatoes to ketchup and mustard, are gluten-free by ingredient. The notable exception to this includes the malt vinegar, which contains gluten. For milkshakes, the vanilla base is gluten-free, but certain mix-ins like Oreo cookies and Malted Milk contain gluten. The blender spindle is cleaned after each use, but for those with severe allergies, it's prudent to confirm the cleaning process or stick to safer options.
Navigating the Menu: Gluten-Free Ordering Strategies
The best way to enjoy a gluten-free meal at Five Guys is to be prepared and communicate effectively.
Ordering Your Burger or Hot Dog
Since Five Guys does not offer gluten-free buns, the standard procedure is to order your burger or hot dog "in a bowl" or "in a lettuce wrap". This modification ensures your meal is served without the gluten-containing bun. Always remember to state clearly that this is an allergy order.
Choosing Your Toppings
All the standard vegetable toppings and sauces are typically safe, with the exception of malt vinegar. For grilled toppings like onions and mushrooms, be aware of the cross-contamination risk from the shared grill surface.
Comparison: Five Guys vs. Other Chains
Understanding how Five Guys' policy compares to other fast-food restaurants is helpful for making informed decisions.
| Restaurant | Dedicated Gluten-Free Fryer? | Other Gluten-Free Options | Key Cross-Contamination Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Five Guys | Yes, exclusively for fries | Bunless burgers/hot dogs, most toppings | Shared prep spaces, shared milkshake blenders (if ordering specific mix-ins) |
| McDonald's | No, shares fryers with items like hash browns and potentially gluten-containing products | No guaranteed safe fries, but offers salads in some regions | Universal risk of cross-contamination in shared fryers |
| Chick-fil-A | Yes, exclusively for waffle fries (locations vary, always check) | Grilled nuggets, salads, shakes (confirm blender cleaning) | Shared oil at some locations, risk with breaded items on prep surfaces |
Tips for a Safer Five Guys Experience
For a dining experience that is as safe as possible, follow these steps:
- Inform the staff: State clearly that you have a gluten allergy, not just a preference. This prompts staff to follow specific allergen protocols.
- Request fresh gloves: Ask the employee preparing your food to change their gloves before starting your order.
- Ask for a foil prep surface: For bunless burgers or bowls, many locations will use a fresh sheet of foil on the grill or prep station to prevent contact with stray crumbs.
- Specify milkshake needs: If ordering a shake, explicitly ask for the blender to be thoroughly washed with soap and water to avoid cross-contact from gluten mix-ins.
- Double-check your order: Visually confirm that your burger is in a bowl or lettuce wrap and that no buns are near your food when it is delivered.
Conclusion: Dedicated Fryer, but Exercise Caution
In conclusion, the good news for those craving gluten-free fries is that Five Guys has a dedicated gluten-free fryer, which is a significant step toward providing a safer option for customers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The fries themselves, cooked in 100% refined peanut oil, are gluten-free by ingredient and isolated from other fried items. However, it is essential to remain vigilant due to the potential for cross-contamination in other parts of the kitchen, particularly with shared prep surfaces and topping areas. By communicating clearly with staff and taking necessary precautions, you can confidently enjoy Five Guys' famous fries and other gluten-free menu items. For the most up-to-date allergen information, always check the official Five Guys website or consult their in-store allergen guide.
