How to make in and out gluten-free?

According to In-N-Out's allergen information, the hamburger bun is the only food item containing gluten. This fact makes it easier to figure out how to make in and out gluten-free by simply avoiding the bread and implementing smart ordering strategies to mitigate cross-contamination.

Quick Summary

This guide provides detailed instructions on how to order gluten-free meals at In-N-Out. It covers essential steps to avoid cross-contamination for individuals with celiac disease, explains popular ordering modifications like 'Protein Style' and 'Animal Style,' and identifies all the safe menu options.

Key Points

• Protein Style: Order any burger 'Protein Style' to get a lettuce wrap instead of a gluten-filled bun.

• Communicate Your Allergy: Explicitly state you have a severe 'gluten allergy' to trigger special cross-contamination protocols.

• Safe Fries: In-N-Out fries are naturally gluten-free and cooked in a dedicated fryer, making them a safe side option.

• Watch for Cross-Contamination: Be aware of cross-contact risks, especially with grilled onions and the spread, and ask for fresh or separate preparations.

• Customize Secret Menu Items: Popular secret menu items like Animal Style and the Flying Dutchman can be made gluten-free with the right modifications.

• Request Sealed Spread Packets: To further minimize cross-contamination, ask for the gluten-free spread in sealed packets rather than having it applied by staff.

Navigating the In-N-Out Menu for Gluten-Free Diners

For many with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the prospect of eating fast food can be daunting. Cross-contamination risks and hidden gluten ingredients are a constant concern. However, In-N-Out Burger stands out as a relatively safe option because of its simple menu and clear allergen policies. The key to success is knowing what to order and, more importantly, how to order it properly.

Ordering Your Gluten-Free Burger: Protein Style

The primary strategy for enjoying a burger at In-N-Out is to order it "Protein Style". This modification replaces the gluten-filled bun with a crisp, fresh lettuce wrap. All standard menu burgers—the Hamburger, Cheeseburger, and Double-Double—can be ordered this way.

To place your order effectively, follow these steps:

1. State your allergy clearly: When ordering, tell the cashier you have a "severe gluten allergy" or "celiac disease." This flags the order for special handling.
2. Request a clean station: Ask the kitchen staff, via the cashier, to use a clean workspace, fresh gloves, and separate utensils to minimize cross-contact.
3. Specify "Protein Style": Add this phrase to your burger order to ensure you receive a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.
4. Confirm the order: If using the drive-thru, confirm the allergy with the staff at each window to ensure the special instructions are followed throughout the process.

Mastering the Gluten-Free Secret Menu

In-N-Out's famous "Not-So-Secret Menu" is also accessible to gluten-free diners with a few smart adjustments. Here's how to order some popular hacks:

• Animal Style Burger (Protein Style): Add "Animal Style" to your protein-style burger to get a mustard-grilled patty, pickles, and grilled onions. For celiac safety, some suggest avoiding the diced grilled onions, which can be handled with the same spatula as buns. A safer alternative is to request whole grilled onions or have the diced onions grilled separately.
• Flying Dutchman: This is naturally gluten-free, consisting of two beef patties with two slices of cheese in the middle. There's no bun, and no vegetables are included. For those with cross-contamination concerns, requesting that it be cooked on a cleaned surface is a wise precaution.
• Animal Style Fries: The fries at In-N-Out are safe for gluten-free diets as they are cooked in a dedicated fryer. To make them Animal Style, they are topped with cheese, spread, and grilled onions. However, the same cross-contamination risk applies to the diced onions. Consider asking for whole grilled onions or getting the toppings on the side to be safe.
• Spread: In-N-Out's signature spread is gluten-free. For those with severe allergies, requesting it in sealed packets can reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

Beyond Burgers: Fries and Shakes

In-N-Out's simple menu means fewer points of potential cross-contact. The french fries, for instance, are hand-cut potatoes and fried in a dedicated fryer with 100% sunflower oil. As long as they aren't topped with any questionable items or handled improperly, they are generally safe.

The shakes (vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate) are also gluten-free and made with real ice cream. The only beverage item that may contain gluten is the hot chocolate, which In-N-Out notes has not been tested for it.

Comparing In-N-Out with Other Gluten-Free Fast Food Options

Feature	In-N-Out	Five Guys	Shake Shack
Bun Options	No gluten-free buns. Must use lettuce wrap (Protein Style).	No gluten-free buns. Must use lettuce wrap or eat bunless.	Offers a gluten-free bun option at most U.S. locations.
Fries	Cooked in dedicated fryer, generally safe.	Cooked in dedicated fryer, generally safe.	Fried in a shared fryer, not safe for celiacs.
Cross-Contamination Protocol	Standard protocols include glove changes, dedicated utensils, and clean stations for allergy orders.	Protocols for glove changes and cleaning prep surfaces are in place.	Staff notified of allergy via order notation.
Sauce	Spread is gluten-free. Can be requested in sealed packets.	Most sauces are safe, but check ingredients.	Generally safe, but confirm with staff.
Secret Menu Items	Protein Style and Flying Dutchman can be ordered safely with modifications.	Ordering bunless allows access to standard menu items safely.	Lettuce wraps available for most burgers.

Navigating Cross-Contamination with Celiac Disease

While In-N-Out's policies are good, no fast-food restaurant can guarantee a 100% gluten-free environment due to shared spaces. For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, taking extra precautions is necessary:

• Mention the allergy multiple times: Remind every employee handling your order, from the cashier to the person at the pickup window.
• Be specific: If you have concerns about grilled onions, ask for a whole grilled onion instead of diced ones to minimize contact with shared spatulas.
• Bring your own bun: If a lettuce wrap doesn't appeal to you, you can bring a certified gluten-free bun and assemble your meal with the protein-style ingredients.
• Consider a minimalist order: The safest option for some is a simple, plain meat patty with no toppings, which has the lowest risk of cross-contact during preparation.
• Verify at the counter: Ask to see your finished meal before it's wrapped to ensure no bun or other risky ingredient has been included by mistake.

Conclusion: Enjoying In-N-Out Safely

With a bit of planning and confident communication, you can successfully figure out how to make in and out gluten-free. By sticking to the "Protein Style" option, being vigilant about cross-contamination, and understanding the safe menu items like fries and shakes, you can enjoy this classic fast-food experience. Remember to always inform the staff of your allergy and, if necessary, take extra precautions to ensure your meal is prepared safely. It is possible to enjoy a satisfying, fast-food meal without compromising your dietary needs.

For more information on the official ingredients and allergens, you can check In-N-Out's allergen information page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are In-N-Out fries gluten-free?

Yes, In-N-Out fries are gluten-free. They are made from fresh, hand-cut potatoes and cooked in a separate fryer using 100% sunflower oil, with no other items fried in it.

What is 'Protein Style' at In-N-Out?

'Protein Style' is the In-N-Out term for ordering a burger with a lettuce wrap instead of the traditional hamburger bun. This makes it a great gluten-free and low-carb option.

Can I order a gluten-free 'Animal Style' burger?

Yes, you can order a gluten-free Animal Style burger by adding the 'Protein Style' modification. Be cautious of the diced grilled onions, which may be prepared with shared tools. It's safer to request whole grilled onions or have the sauce and toppings served on the side.

Is the In-N-Out spread gluten-free?

Yes, the signature In-N-Out spread is gluten-free. For those with celiac disease, requesting the spread in a sealed packet can help prevent cross-contamination.

Are In-N-Out shakes gluten-free?

All three shake flavors—vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry—are gluten-free and safe to order.

Is there a risk of cross-contamination for gluten-free orders?

While In-N-Out uses dedicated protocols for allergen orders, including glove changes, there is always a risk of cross-contamination in a shared kitchen. Careful communication with staff about your allergy is key.

Is the Flying Dutchman a gluten-free option?

The Flying Dutchman, a secret menu item of two patties and two slices of cheese, is naturally gluten-free. You can also get it Animal Style with extra toppings, but again, be mindful of cross-contamination.