Salad and Go's Official Gluten Policy
Salad and Go officially describes its offerings as "gluten-friendly," not gluten-free. This distinction is crucial for anyone with celiac disease, as it immediately signals that the risk of cross-contact is present. On their website and nutritional documents, the company states explicitly that they are not an allergen-free facility and cannot guarantee the absence of allergens, including gluten, in their foods. This disclaimer reflects the reality of preparing food in a shared kitchen environment where gluten-containing items like wraps, croutons, and tortillas are also handled.
Cross-Contact Mitigation Measures
Despite not being a dedicated gluten-free environment, Salad and Go does have documented procedures to minimize cross-contact. According to reviews on platforms like Find Me Gluten Free, staff are often trained to handle requests from customers with gluten allergies. Key mitigation steps include:
- Glove Changes: Staff will change gloves upon request to avoid transferring gluten from their hands to a salad.
- Dedicated Prep Space: Gluten-containing items, such as croutons and tortillas, are reportedly assembled in a separate section of the kitchen.
- Fresh Ingredients: Customers can request that a new container of lettuce and other ingredients be used, pulled directly from the fridge instead of the main line, although this is more easily accommodated during non-peak hours.
- App Designation: The Salad and Go app includes an option for customers to specify celiac disease, alerting staff to take extra precautions.
Inherent Risks for Celiac Customers
While mitigation steps are helpful, they do not eliminate all risk for celiacs. The very nature of a non-dedicated facility means airborne flour, shared surfaces, and utensils can all be sources of contamination. Some online reviewers with celiac disease have reported getting sick after eating at Salad and Go, suggesting that protocols may not be followed consistently across all locations or staff. High-volume, fast-paced environments can also increase the chance of human error. It is vital for highly sensitive individuals to weigh these risks carefully.
Celiac-Safe Ordering Tips for Salad and Go
For those who choose to dine at Salad and Go despite the risks, following a strict ordering protocol can reduce exposure. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Use the App: When ordering online or through the app, use the celiac designation to alert the team.
- Order Carefully: Specify “No croutons” and “No tortilla strips” on any salad. For breakfast, order a bowl instead of a wrap to avoid the tortilla.
- Confirm Dressings: While all dressings are labeled gluten-friendly, confirm they are packaged separately to reduce contact with scoops.
- Communicate Clearly: If ordering in person, clearly state that you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease. Ask the staff to change their gloves and use fresh utensils and ingredients from the back.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Visiting during slower times can increase the likelihood of staff being able to accommodate special requests with greater care.
Navigating Cross-Contact: A Comparison
To better understand the level of safety at Salad and Go, it is useful to compare their approach to other dining options.
| Feature | Salad and Go | Certified Gluten-Free Restaurant | Standard Fast-Food Chain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facility Status | Not a certified GF facility. | 100% certified gluten-free kitchen. | Handles all allergens in one kitchen. |
| Allergen Protocol | Mitigation steps (glove changes, some separation). | Strict, end-to-end contamination prevention. | Variable, usually minimal. High risk. |
| Staff Training | Some staff training on allergy requests. | Extensive, rigorous training on celiac safety. | Basic allergen awareness. |
| Risk of Cross-Contact | Present and acknowledged. Mitigation helps but is not foolproof. | Extremely low. | Very high. |
| Best for Celiac | Not recommended for highly sensitive celiacs. | Best and safest option. | Should be avoided. |
Conclusion: The Final Verdict for Celiacs
The question of whether Salad and Go is celiac friendly does not have a simple yes or no answer. The company's "gluten-friendly" policy and the inherent risks of a shared kitchen mean that it cannot be considered a safe option for all individuals with celiac disease. While they offer many naturally gluten-free ingredients and have protocols to reduce cross-contact, these measures are not foolproof. For highly sensitive individuals, the risk of getting sick is too high. For those with less severe sensitivities, careful ordering and strong communication with staff can reduce the risk. Ultimately, the decision to dine at Salad and Go rests on an individual's personal risk tolerance, but it is important to proceed with full awareness of the potential for cross-contact.
Before you go, it's always a good practice to research and review options on apps like Find Me Gluten Free. For individuals with celiac disease, prioritizing safety is paramount, and a restaurant's own allergen disclaimers should always be taken seriously. For more resources on navigating celiac disease safely, consult the Celiac Disease Foundation website.
