Pressed Juicery's Gluten-Free Granola Option
Many customers frequent Pressed Juicery for their array of healthy, plant-based options, and the question of gluten-free status, particularly for toppings like granola, is a common one. The answer is nuanced and requires careful attention, especially for individuals with Celiac disease. While Pressed does offer a specific gluten-free granola, the details surrounding its production are critical to understand.
According to Pressed's official allergen guide, their granola is made with gluten-free oats, organic coconut sugar, and organic quinoa flakes. This confirms that the ingredients themselves are inherently free of gluten. However, a significant caveat is that the granola is produced in a facility that also processes common allergens, including soy, milk, egg, peanuts, and other tree nuts.
Cross-Contamination Risks: Why Celiac Sufferers Must Be Cautious
For those with Celiac disease, even trace amounts of gluten can trigger a severe autoimmune reaction. The shared-facility warning is a major concern. Past customer reviews, specifically from a resource like Find Me Gluten Free, have highlighted inconsistencies and communication issues regarding gluten-free options. Some reviews report being told one thing by staff, only to discover later that the granola contained regular rolled oats. This underscores the importance of not just relying on the general presence of a "gluten-free option" but confirming it with staff and being aware of the cross-contamination risks.
Confirming the Granola Type
To navigate this risk, here are steps you can take:
- Specifically Ask: When ordering an Acai bowl or another item that can have granola, explicitly state that you need the gluten-free granola option and mention your dietary restriction due to Celiac disease or sensitivity.
- Verify the Source: In the past, Pressed used different granolas for different products, with the granola for their "Freeze" soft-serve reportedly containing regular rolled oats. Always confirm the specific granola being used for your order.
- Consider Safer Alternatives: For those with severe allergies, the safest option is to opt for toppings that are naturally gluten-free and have a lower risk of cross-contact, such as fresh fruit, seeds, or nut butters.
Comparison of Granola and Alternatives
| Feature | Pressed Gluten-Free Granola Option | Inherently Safe Alternatives (Fruits, Seeds) | Historical/Risky Granola | Celiac Safety Level | Shared Facility Risk? | Key Ingredients | Best For | Potential Issue | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celiac Safety Level | Low to Moderate (due to cross-contamination) | High | Very Low | ||||||
| Shared Facility Risk? | Yes, confirmed | Generally No, check menu | Yes, potential for non-dedicated lines | ||||||
| Key Ingredients | Gluten-free oats, quinoa flakes, coconut sugar | Fresh fruit, chia seeds, shredded coconut, almond butter | Regular rolled oats | ||||||
| Best For | Mild sensitivity or minimal concern for trace amounts | High sensitivity or Celiac disease | Not recommended for those with gluten sensitivity | ||||||
| Potential Issue | Cross-contamination from shared production facility | No crunch if that is desired | Contains gluten and is unsafe for Celiacs |
Navigating the Menu and Allergen Information
Pressed Juicery is transparent about allergens and provides a downloadable PDF guide on its website. This is the most authoritative source of information for their products. Customers with allergies or sensitivities should consult this guide and talk to the staff at the specific location they are visiting, as practices and topping availability can vary.
A Cautious Approach for a Safe Experience
Even with the official gluten-free granola option, a cautious approach is best. A previous customer report detailed getting sick after a Freeze soft-serve due to cross-contamination from non-GF cones placed over toppings, despite assurances of being gluten-free. While policies may change, this highlights the potential for risks in a shared environment. Sticking to safer, unprocessed items is always the most certain way to avoid gluten exposure.
Conclusion: A Clearer Picture of Pressed's Gluten-Free Granola
In summary, Pressed Juicery does offer a specific gluten-free granola made with gluten-free oats for certain items, especially Acai bowls. However, this is not a product for individuals with Celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities, as it is made in a facility with a high risk of cross-contamination. The safest path is to always inform staff of your allergy and, if necessary, choose inherently safer toppings. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the company's official allergen guide, which can be found via the Pressed Juicery Allergens page.
