Does PrimoHoagies Offer Gluten Free Options?

December 3, 2025 •

3 min read

As of early 2025, PrimoHoagies began offering gluten-free wraps at many of its locations, expanding options for customers with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. This development builds on existing alternatives like the popular 'Hoagie in a Bowl' and certain certified gluten-free meat and cheese products from their supplier, Thumann's. While these options are available, patrons must remain vigilant regarding preparation and potential cross-contamination.

Quick Summary

PrimoHoagies provides gluten-free alternatives for its hoagies, including newly introduced wraps at participating locations, the standard 'Hoagie in a Bowl' option, and certified gluten-free Thumann's meats and cheeses. Safe ordering requires communication with staff to mitigate cross-contamination risks for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

Key Points

Availability of Wraps: As of early 2025, PrimoHoagies offers gluten-free wraps at many participating locations, in addition to the standard 'Hoagie in a Bowl' option.
Hoagie in a Bowl: This option involves serving the fillings in a bowl without bread, minimizing gluten exposure and offering a low-carb alternative.
Certified Ingredients: PrimoHoagies' supplier, Thumann's, has certified their manufactured meats and cheeses as gluten-free, providing a solid foundation for safe fillings.
Cross-Contamination Warning: The restaurant operates a shared kitchen, so cross-contamination is a significant risk for those with celiac disease; communicate specific needs to the staff.
Prioritize Communication: For safe ordering, explicitly request that staff change gloves and use clean equipment and a separate prep surface.
Verify with Local Store: Since practices can vary by location, it's wise to call ahead and confirm the availability of gluten-free options and the store's ability to handle cross-contamination concerns.
Consider the Risk: Those with severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should carefully weigh the risk of a shared kitchen, even with accommodations, and may find the Hoagie in a Bowl to be a safer choice.

PrimoHoagies' Commitment to Gluten-Free

For many years, PrimoHoagies has catered to a wide audience, and in recent years, their menu has evolved to include more options for those with dietary restrictions, particularly gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. The introduction of a dedicated gluten-free wrap at participating locations is a significant step forward, offering a more traditional hoagie experience without the gluten-containing seeded bread. Before placing an order, customers should always verify with their specific location, as availability can vary. This new wrap is a game-changer for many who previously had to opt for alternative formats like the 'Hoagie in a Bowl'.

The 'Hoagie in a Bowl' and Other Safe Choices

One of the most reliable and long-standing gluten-free options at PrimoHoagies is the 'Hoagie in a Bowl'. This allows customers to enjoy their favorite fillings, such as the Thumann's certified gluten-free meats and cheeses, without any bread at all. The ingredients are served in a bowl, typically on a bed of lettuce, with all the desired toppings. This option is a natural choice for anyone looking for a low-carb alternative as well. In addition to the bowls, several sides are naturally gluten-free, including certain salads like the Red Royal Potato Salad and Coleslaw, though it is always best to check the allergen information directly with the restaurant.

Understanding Cross-Contamination Risk

For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, managing cross-contamination is a primary concern. PrimoHoagies is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, meaning there is an inherent risk during preparation. The same surfaces, gloves, and slicing equipment might be used for both gluten-free and regular hoagies. To minimize risk, customers with celiac disease should take specific precautions when ordering. The Find Me Gluten Free community, for example, shares user experiences detailing varying levels of care at different locations. It is vital to communicate with the staff, specify the need for new gloves and clean utensils, and request preparation on a clean, separate surface if possible. Some locations may be more accommodating or better equipped than others.

Ordering Safely for Celiac Disease

Navigating a non-dedicated facility requires clear communication. Here is a step-by-step guide to help minimize risk:

Communicate Clearly: Inform the cashier and the sandwich maker that you have celiac disease or a gluten allergy. Use the phrase, "I have a gluten allergy and need to avoid cross-contamination completely."
Request Precautions: Ask the staff to change their gloves and use new, clean utensils and cutting boards for your order. If they use a shared slicer for meats, ask if they can retrieve pre-sliced meat from a fresh package.
Consider Alternatives: If ordering a wrap, be aware that the preparation area may still be a source of contamination. For higher risk tolerance individuals, this might be fine. For those with celiac, the 'Hoagie in a Bowl' is a safer alternative that minimizes contact with bread crumbs.
Stick to Certified Ingredients: Focus on the certified gluten-free meats and cheeses from Thumann's, and be mindful of sauces or toppings that may not be clearly marked as gluten-free. Always ask to see packaging if uncertain.
Verify at Your Local Store: Do not assume all PrimoHoagies operate identically. Policies and practices can vary by franchise. A quick phone call beforehand can save you from potential issues.

Gluten-Free Options: Comparison Table


Feature	Hoagie in a Bowl	Gluten-Free Wrap (at select locations)	Traditional Hoagie (contains gluten)
Carb Content	Very low	Moderate	High
Allergen Risk	Low (if proper precautions are taken)	Medium (due to shared prep areas)	High (contains gluten)
Texture	Salad-like, fresh	Soft, pliable, similar to a soft tortilla	Firm, chewy, classic Italian roll
Experience	Deconstructed sandwich	Closest to a true hoagie	The full, classic PrimoHoagies experience
Availability	All locations	Select, participating locations	All locations

Conclusion

PrimoHoagies has clearly made strides to accommodate the gluten-free community, moving beyond the simple 'Hoagie in a Bowl' to offer a more authentic experience with its gluten-free wraps at certain stores. While this is a welcome addition, it's crucial for individuals with celiac disease to understand the limitations of a shared kitchen environment. With careful communication and a strategic approach to ordering, a delicious, satisfying gluten-free meal from PrimoHoagies is certainly possible, balancing your enjoyment with your health needs. Always remember that for those with the most severe gluten allergies, the risk of cross-contamination can never be fully eliminated outside of a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.

Food Allergy Canada: Avoiding Cross-Contamination

Frequently Asked Questions

While the 'Hoagie in a Bowl' is a standard offering, the availability of gluten-free wraps can vary by location. It is best to call your local PrimoHoagies to confirm their options and policies.

No, the standard hoagie rolls at PrimoHoagies contain gluten. A gluten-free wrap is offered at select locations, and the 'Hoagie in a Bowl' is always an option for those avoiding bread.

Yes, many of the meats and cheeses from their supplier, Thumann's, are certified gluten-free, providing a safe base for hoagies and bowls.

You should clearly state your allergy, and ask the staff to change their gloves and use clean utensils and a separate preparation area for your order.

The 'Hoagie in a Bowl' is generally considered the safest option as it eliminates contact with bread, which is the primary source of gluten in a hoagie.

It is not advisable to assume any fried items are safe, as they are often cooked in shared fryers with items that contain gluten, leading to cross-contamination.

While staff training varies, being clear and assertive about your needs is the best strategy. Confirming with your local store about their protocols beforehand can also increase your confidence.

Some potential side options include the Red Royal Potato Salad, Nellie's Cole Slaw, and certain salads, but you should always double-check the latest allergen information.