It can be really challenging to find food items that don't contain gluten. Many people have medical conditions that require them to avoid dietary gluten. Individuals who shouldn't consume gluten must be diligent in their efforts to purchase and prepare food items that are gluten-free.

Gluten is a grain protein that is present in baked goods and many other food products. It has always been challenging for individuals on gluten-free diets to find a wide variety of prepared foods that are safe to consume. However, as the issue of gluten intolerance becomes more widely publicized, things are starting to change. More and more food manufacturers and restaurateurs are responding to consumer demand for gluten-free products.

Gluten-Free Food Products:

Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods carries a line of all-natural frozen entrees, many of which are gluten-free. Selections that do not contain gluten include gluten-free veggie burgers and "Kid's Littles" favorites including bite-size spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and potato pancakes. You can view the complete line of gluten free products here.

Bob's Red Mill carries a complete line of certified gluten-free grain products. Selections include flours, thickeners, a variety of baking mixes (cookies, brownies, cakes, various types of bread, etc.), and more. The complete line can be viewed here.

Califine Foods offers a line of gourmet seasonings that are gluten free and also free from nut, soy, dairy, egg, seafood or meat ingredients. Choices include: Dill Delight, Herb Medley Gourmet Seasoning, Garlic Gusto Gourmet Seasoning, and Spicy Fiesta Gourmet Seasoning, Sweet and Spicy Barbecue Mix

Glutino & Gluten-Free Pantry manufacture a variety of gluten-free products, including baked goods, baking mixes, desserts,frozen entrees, pasta, skillet meals, snacks, and more.

U.S. Mills manufactures Erewhon brand gluten-free cold cereals and hot rice cereal..

Nature's Path sells a wide variety of gluten-free food choices, including: cereal bars, cold cereals, cookies, kid-friendly "EnviroKidz" snacks, and waffles.

Annie's Homegrown markets gluten-free macaroni and cheese mix in a wheat-free production facility.

Restaurants Offering Gluten-Free Menu Items

Many restaurants are recognizing the reality and severity of gluten intolerance and are beginning to introduce gluten-free items on their menus.

Restaurants with gluten-free selections include:

• Applebees
• Arby's
• Carrabba's Italian Grill
• Cracker Barrell
• Bonefish Grill
• Outback Steakhouse
• P.F. Chang's
• Many Others

Click here to search for gluten-free food items on various restaurant menus.

Who Needs To Avoid Gluten?

Individuals with Autism, Celiac disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and other autoimmune conditions are often advised to avoid consuming gluten. Many people have serious, wheat allergies and must avoid eating anything that contains gluten. Many others have an intolerance for gluten, and must avoid consuming the substance in order to avoid unpleasant side effects.