Many people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease wonder if they can enjoy the delicious crispy fries offered at Steak and Shake restaurants. In this article, we will dive into the details to answer the question: Are Steak and Shake fries gluten free?
1. Ingredients in Steak and Shake Fries
When it comes to determining whether a food item is gluten free, examining its ingredients is crucial. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in Steak and Shake fries:
- Potatoes: The main ingredient in the fries is potatoes, which are naturally gluten free.
- Vegetable Oil: Steak and Shake uses a vegetable oil blend to fry their potatoes. As long as the blend does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing additives, the oil should be safe for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Salt: Most standard table salt does not contain gluten, but it’s always a good idea to check the label to be certain.
Based on the ingredients listed above, Steak and Shake fries seem to be gluten free. However, cross-contamination is a potential concern in restaurant kitchens, so let’s explore this further.
2. Cross-Contamination Risks
Although the ingredients used in Steak and Shake fries may not contain gluten, it’s important to consider the risks of cross-contamination during preparation and cooking. Cross-contamination can occur when gluten-containing foods come into contact with gluten-free foods, leading to the inadvertent presence of gluten. Here are some potential sources of cross-contamination:
- Shared Fryer: If the restaurant uses a shared fryer for both fries and gluten-containing items like onion rings or breaded chicken, there is a risk of cross-contamination.
- Preparation Surfaces: If the fries are prepared on surfaces that have come into contact with gluten-containing foods, there is a chance of cross-contamination.
- Utensils and Equipment: Shared utensils and equipment could also introduce gluten into the fries, particularly if they are not thoroughly cleaned between uses.
To be certain about the gluten-free status of Steak and Shake fries, it is best to inquire directly with the restaurant and ask about their procedures for preventing cross-contamination.
3. Gluten-Free Options at Steak and Shake
If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it’s important to know about alternative options even if the fries are not gluten free. Here are some gluten-free choices you can find at Steak and Shake:
- Salads: Many salads offered at Steak and Shake are gluten free. Just make sure to ask for dressings and toppings that do not contain gluten.
- Burgers without Buns: You can order a burger without the bun to avoid gluten. Customize your burger with various toppings and enjoy it with a side of gluten-free salad or vegetables.
- Chili: The chili served at Steak and Shake is gluten free, making it a suitable option for those avoiding gluten.
If you prefer to enjoy fries, you can consider bringing your own gluten-free condiments or sauces to enhance the flavor without worrying about potential cross-contamination.
4. Other Gluten-Free Chain Restaurants with Fries
If you are concerned about the gluten content in Steak and Shake fries or if cross-contamination is a significant issue for you, it’s helpful to know about other chain restaurants that offer guaranteed gluten-free fries. Here are a few examples:
| Restaurant | Status of Fries |
|---|---|
| Five Guys | Their fries are cooked in dedicated fryers, making them gluten free. |
| In-N-Out Burger | Their fries are made with only potatoes, salt, and vegetable oil, which are gluten free. |
| Shake Shack | Shake Shack’s fries are gluten free, and they have dedicated fryers to avoid cross-contamination. |
These restaurants cater to those with gluten intolerance by taking extra precautions to provide safe gluten-free options.
5. Conclusion
While Steak and Shake fries appear to be made with gluten-free ingredients, the risk of cross-contamination cannot be ignored. It is recommended to contact the restaurant directly for more information and to inquire about their procedures for preventing cross-contamination.
If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, exploring other gluten-free options at Steak and Shake, or trying fries from establishments that offer dedicated gluten-free fryers, might be a more reliable choice.
Remember, it’s vital to prioritize your health and well-being by making informed choices when it comes to your dietary restrictions.