Navigating the Menu: Understanding the Gluten-Free Basics at Andy's
For many with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding a safe dessert can be a challenge. When visiting Andy's Frozen Custard, the good news is that the core of their offerings—the frozen custard base—is gluten-free. Both the standard vanilla and chocolate frozen custards are made with ingredients free of gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, and barley. The same goes for their Italian Ice, which is available at select locations and is also free of gluten.
The Importance of Avoiding Cross-Contamination
While the base custards are gluten-free, the environment in which they are prepared is not. Andy's Frozen Custard explicitly states on its website that all of their stores offer products containing milk, eggs, gluten, peanuts, soy, and/or tree nuts. This creates a significant risk of cross-contamination, especially for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities. Many customer reports confirm instances where gluten-containing items, such as pretzel or Oreo pieces, have ended up in mixed-in concretes.
To minimize this risk, communication with staff is paramount. When placing an order, it is crucial to inform the server about your gluten allergy. According to some customer reports, staff are often knowledgeable and willing to take precautions, such as using fresh ingredients from a clean, dedicated backstock and cleaning mixing equipment before preparing your order.
Safe Ordering Strategies
To enjoy a gluten-free treat safely at Andy's, the simplest approach is to order a plain cup or cone of vanilla or chocolate frozen custard. For those who want more flavor, a simple sundae with safe toppings is the next best option. Avoiding any mixed-in items like concretes and jackhammers, which use shared mixing spindles, is the most conservative and recommended strategy for celiacs.
Safe Toppings Guide
Gluten-Free Toppings:
- Hot Fudge
- Marshmallow Cream
- Peanut Butter
- Fresh Fruits (e.g., strawberries, raspberries)
- Nuts (e.g., roasted almonds, pecans, peanuts)
- Sprinkles (verify with store as some brands contain gluten)
Toppings to Avoid:
- Brownies
- Cookies (e.g., Oreo)
- Cookie Dough
- Pie Pieces
- Pretzels
- Malt powder (used for malts and some concretes)
Comparison of Gluten-Free Options
| Feature | Plain Custard | Simple Sundae | Concrete / Jackhammer | Zarlengo's Italian Ice (Select Stores) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Vanilla or Chocolate Custard | Vanilla or Chocolate Custard | Vanilla or Chocolate Custard | Italian Ice |
| Gluten-Free Base? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Risk of Cross-Contamination | Low (if ordered plain in a clean dish) | Moderate (risk from shared topping scoops) | High (shared mixing equipment) | Low |
| Recommended for Celiacs? | Yes (with caution) | Yes (with caution) | No (not recommended) | Yes |
| Safe Ordering Action | Request a clean cup/spoon | Request clean scoops for toppings | Avoid entirely | No special request needed |
Making Your Order Safer
Even with the safest choices, it's always wise to take extra precautions. Consider the following tips:
- Communicate Clearly: State your gluten allergy upfront and mention your sensitivity. Use phrases like, "I have a severe gluten allergy, please use a clean scoop and get the toppings from a fresh container."
- Observe Preparation: If possible, observe the preparation process to ensure staff members are following appropriate procedures, such as changing gloves and using clean utensils.
- Order Simple: Stick to the simplest menu items. The more ingredients you add, the more opportunities for cross-contamination arise. Plain custard or a simple sundae with toppings you've verified as safe is best.
- Consider Alternatives: If you are extremely sensitive or have had bad experiences, ordering the Zarlengo's Italian Ice (if available) is a very low-risk alternative as it is naturally gluten-free and typically served with separate equipment.
The Official Andy's Allergen Statement
Andy's Frozen Custard is transparent about its allergen risks, which is a key factor in making an informed decision. Their website explicitly states: "Once we are alerted, we do everything in our ability to minimize the risk of cross contact, but unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that any of our treats can be completely free of allergens". This is an important disclaimer for anyone with a severe allergy to consider before dining.
Conclusion
So, is anything at Andy's gluten-free? Yes, the basic vanilla and chocolate frozen custards, as well as the Italian Ice, are gluten-free by ingredients. However, the risk of cross-contamination, especially with blended menu items like concretes and jackhammers, is significant. By ordering plain, requesting clean utensils and fresh toppings, and clearly communicating your allergy, you can minimize the risk. Ultimately, individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity should approach dining at Andy's with caution and rely on simple, unblended options. For those with milder sensitivities, being observant and vocal about your needs can lead to a safe and enjoyable dessert.
Disclaimer: For the most accurate and current information, it is always recommended to check directly with your local Andy's Frozen Custard and to review their most recent nutritional information online. You can find their official allergen FAQs on their website.
