Yummy or Yucky Gluten-Free Foods

I am under the impression that Cool Ranch Doritos are okay, is that the flavor you had? I knew that the Nacho Cheese had Gluten in the cheese powder. Please clarify... thanks!

Hello Tina. Thank you for alerting me as to which Doritos to verify are NOT gluten free. The Nacho Cheese Doritos recipe has been changed so that they are not longer available for Celiacs to have. Hope that clears up your question.

Thanks so much.

Hi Nancy. Wheat free soy sauce is fine for Celiacs. Restaurants such as PF Chang's even offer gluten-free soy sauce for those with gluten intolerance. As far as soy products go, there are those who are both Celiacs and have soy intolerance. However, you can have one and not have the other. Generally, soy products are perfectly acceptable for Celiacs. But be careful!

Generally speaking, Yoplait is gluten free. However, if the name of the yogurt appears to have 'cookie' or 'crust' or 'cake' in it, then you know that it will most likely bother Celiacs. Always remember, that no matter how many times you have eaten a certain product, always read your labels. Product recipes are constantly changing, and it is up to the Celiac consumer to stay safe and gluten-free.

I always hear that PF Chang's is accommodating, but when I was still starting an avoidance diet to figure it out, they had no idea what gluten was and I wound up bent over with cramps after eating it! I would have thought in Stanford they would be pretty aware!!!

Hi Kristen. That is very odd that Stanford's PF Chang's would not be aware of gluten, considering that the college has its own Celiac disease department!

I was there back in January '08, and I had no problem whatsoever with ordering gluten free. I am wondering if you had a new server or someone in training. When were you at their establishment? More importantly, have you called to tell them your experience? They are very concerned about customer relations, and I am hopeful that they can get you sorted out.

I'm concerned about flavor extracts - I've been told any that contain alcohol are unsafe, as alcohol contains gluten. McCormick's says all their extracts, including Pure Vanilla are gluten-free. Would you take the chance?

Sandy, anything that says 'pure' literally means that that extract is simply extract. Avoid anything with the word 'imitation' in it. However, pure vanilla, almond, peppermint, strawberry, etc. extract should be acceptable. The alcohol is distilled, so there are no traces of gluten left. The alcohol helps to preserve the flavor of the extract. Overall, it should be safe. If you are still unsure, I suggest you contact McCormick's directly, as they should be able to help you with your concern. May I say, though, that I have used McCormick in the past, and I have been fine!

On the Dorritos topic, you CAN have the 'spicy nacho' flavor of Dorritos as well as the cool ranch! Spicy nacho actually tastes a lot better than original too.