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If you are coeliac it’s important to ensure meal services are coeliac-safe and not just gluten-free. Food services may not cater to those with Coeliac disease, it’s important to avoid all traces or cross-contamination where possible. Look for the coeliac friendly accreditation and/or Coeliac Australia logo, or simply reach out to providers and ask (NJ, MA et al. 2013) (JF, TR et al. 2015).
Gluten-free doesn’t necessarily mean healthy
Like any diet, gluten-free doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Although gluten-free is a healthier choice for those that require dietary restriction, it’s important to consider your individual needs. Compare nutritional panels and ingredients lists – sometimes gluten-free foods can be filled with unnecessary preservatives, additives and fillers.
Texture /Taste
For many years’ gluten-free eaters have experienced huge disappointment in foods that once traditionally tasted like a salivating fresh loaf of bread, to what now tastes and feels like gluten-free cardboard. Thankfully, gluten-free options have come a long way in the development and there is a huge range of options. Before committing to foods or delivery services do some independent research and see what others have to say before making the jump.
Cost vs Convenience
Research shows that just a stroll down your supermarket aisles will reveal many gluten-free options are far more expensive than their traditional choices (Stevens, Rashid 2008). Compare different meal services for their cost per meal to make a cost-effective analysis for the best value option.