5 Quick Tips For Eating Gluten-free At A Party Or Social Gathering

Eating gluten-free at social gatherings, parties and barbecues can often be quite challenging. There are always side dishes brought by other guests, dips and other food items that may contain some sneaky gluten. But, with the right preparation, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the party, knowing that you are eating healthy, and more importantly, gluten-free.

Here are 5 quick tips to help you eat gluten-free at a social gathering, party or barbecue:

Tip #1: Lay Off the Sauce (Barbecue Sauce, That Is) - Most BBQ sauces contain gluten! It's just one of those sneaky places that gluten loves to hide. Some BBQ sauces may contain soy sauce, and others might contain Worcestershire Sauce, which can both contain gluten. Here's a list of BBQ sauces that are gluten-free:

* Annies Naturals barbecue sauces are gluten-free and dairy-free.
* Daddy Sams is gluten-free and free of all top allergens.
* Bone Suckin Sauce is gluten-free and free of all top allergens. Its got a sweetness along with a spiciness that is so good.
* Sweet Baby Rays Barbecue Sauces are both gluten-free and dairy-free. I havent tried them yet, but I have read good things!
* Any Kraft and Nabisco products will list ingredients that contain gluten on the ingredient statement.This includes Bulls Eye Barbecue Sauce and Kraft brand barbecue
sauces.
* Avoid KC Masterpiece Barbecue Sauces unless you can be sure from the ingredient list that they are gluten-free.

Tip #2: Pack a Backup Stash - Even if a close friend or family member has assured you that they will have a few gluten-free items available for you, don't trust them! Sounds a bit harsh, but I've been tricked too many times, only to be left starving and frustrated at a get together. Bring some small snacks, like a Lara Bar, Kind Bar or even some rice crisps. You should always have a "backup plan" in case there is no food available for you to eat!

Tip #3: Bring a Bun - Since we are talking about BBQ's, most likely, there will be burgers or hot dogs of some sort. (*Note that some hot dogs and sausages may contain gluten. Here is a good list of gluten-free hot dogs and sausages for you to reference: http://bit.ly/dl81x9). Be sure to bring a gluten-free hot dog or hamburger bun with you! Don't ever feel embarrassed or awkward to suddenly break out your own bun from your bag. Your health is top priority, so bust out your gluten-free bun with pride! And remember, if you are going to be putting your bun on the BBQ, be sure to ask the host to thoroughly clean a portion of the grill to avoid cross contamination! It's a small favor to ask to avoid getting sick!

Tip #4: Offer to Bring a Side Dish - I've always said, "the only way you can be sure that something is gluten-free is to make it from scratch!" Offer to bring a side dish to the party, so that you are POSITIVE it is gluten-free. Whipping up a quick potato salad, cucumber and tomato salad or simple garden salad is quick and easy and will ensure that you will have at least one gluten-free dish at the party.

Tip #5: Dip with Caution - At holiday parties, chips and dip are almost mandatory. But, many of the traditional dips can contain some sneaky gluten that you need to watch out for. In particular, be aware of any spinach dip or processed cheese dip. Both may contain flour as a thickener and therefore, might not be gluten-free. If you are uncertain, be sure to ask the host or hostess for the packaging, so that you can read the ingredients. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry!

Keep these 5 quick tips in mind the next time you are invited to a social gathering, party or barbecue!


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