The Problem with Shared Fryers
For individuals with celiac disease, even a tiny amount of gluten can cause a severe autoimmune reaction. A common pitfall in restaurants is the use of shared deep fryers for preparing both gluten-free and gluten-containing foods. At Outback Steakhouse, fried items such as the famous Bloomin' Onion are cooked in the same oil as the Aussie Fries. The gluten from the battered and breaded items leaches into the cooking oil, which then contaminates the otherwise gluten-free potatoes.
The Corporate Policy: "Gluten-Friendly" Not "Gluten-Free"
Outback Steakhouse and other restaurants often label their menus as "gluten-friendly" rather than strictly "gluten-free". This distinction is critical and is a cautionary flag for those with serious gluten sensitivities. It is a legal and ethical way for the restaurant to acknowledge that while they offer ingredients that do not contain gluten, they cannot prevent cross-contamination in their shared kitchen environment. Despite efforts to mitigate the risk, the shared equipment makes achieving a true gluten-free standard impossible for certain items.
Mitigation Efforts and Their Limits
Outback has a protocol for handling gluten-sensitive orders, which includes staff training on cross-contamination avoidance, such as washing hands and changing gloves. They also use dedicated, clean utensils and equipment where possible for preparation. However, these measures do not extend to having dedicated deep fryers for gluten-free items. Therefore, for any item cooked in the fryer, the risk remains. For someone with celiac disease, this level of exposure is unacceptable and can lead to adverse health effects.
Gluten-Free Alternatives at Outback
While the fries are off the table, Outback does offer other options that are generally considered safe for a gluten-free diet. Always double-check with your server and request gluten-sensitive preparation, but these items are typically safer choices:
- Grilled steaks with plain seasoning
- A baked potato with safe toppings (confirming butter and sour cream are safe)
- Grilled chicken or seafood, prepared carefully
- Fresh vegetables like steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables
- A salad without croutons and a gluten-free dressing
Outback Fries vs. Safe Gluten-Free Fries
This table outlines the key differences between the fries at Outback and a truly safe gluten-free option from a restaurant or prepared at home.
| Feature | Outback Fries | Safe Gluten-Free Fries (e.g., home-cooked) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Oil | Shared fryer oil contaminated with gluten from other menu items. | Dedicated gluten-free fryer, pan, or oven, using fresh, uncontaminated oil. |
| Equipment | Fried in equipment shared with breaded items like the Bloomin' Onion. | Cooked using dedicated, clean kitchenware, separate from any gluten sources. |
| Risk of Cross-Contamination | High risk due to shared fryer, despite staff training. | No risk of contamination as all ingredients and equipment are guaranteed gluten-free. |
| Suitability for Celiac | Unsafe for celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. | Safe and suitable for a strict gluten-free diet. |
The Final Word on Outback's Fries
For anyone with a serious gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, the risks associated with Outback's fries are too high. The shared fryer system, a common practice in many restaurants, makes it impossible to guarantee a gluten-free product, regardless of how safe the original ingredients are. The safest approach is to choose menu items that are grilled or baked and have a lower chance of cross-contact. Outback's corporate policy reflects this reality by only offering "gluten-friendly" options, placing the ultimate responsibility on the diner to make informed choices based on their dietary needs and comfort level. It is always best to be vigilant and prioritize your health when dining out.
To review Outback's official position on dietary restrictions, including gluten sensitivity, you can visit their Gluten Friendly page.
Conclusion
While Outback Steakhouse offers some options that are naturally gluten-free and takes precautions for preparation, their french fries are not safe for a strict gluten-free diet. The primary reason is the use of shared deep fryers, which leads to inevitable cross-contamination with breaded, gluten-containing items. For those with celiac disease or severe sensitivities, the risk is too great. The best strategy is to be aware of the menu items cooked in shared equipment and opt for naturally gluten-free alternatives that can be prepared with minimal risk, such as a baked potato or grilled steak.
