Student Petition Calls on McDonald's to Bring More Gluten-Free Options to the UK

Celiac.com 02/09/2024 - In a push for increased inclusivity, a gluten-intolerant student has garnered overwhelming support for her petition urging McDonald's to offer more gluten-free options in its UK branches. Chloe Radzikowski, a 22-year-old trainee paramedic from Leigh, launched the petition, which highlights the disparity in gluten-free offerings between UK and European outlets of the fast-food giant. So far, the petition has gained over 10,000 signatures.

Radzikowski, who developed gluten intolerance last year, expressed her shock and frustration at discovering that McDonald's provided more gluten-free choices in its European locations than in the UK. Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, she emphasized the challenges faced by those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, describing the limited food choices and the anxiety associated with potential illness from unintentional gluten consumption.

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In the UK, McDonald's offers a handful of gluten-free items, including fries, hash browns, fruit bags, carrot sticks, salads, and some desserts. However, the chain explicitly states that, due to the setup of their kitchens, they cannot guarantee the prevention of cross-contamination, and burgers are notably absent from the list of gluten-free options.

Radzikowski's advocacy gained momentum after her discovery of a more extensive gluten-free menu in McDonald's Spanish restaurants during a family holiday to Lanzarote. Her petition emphasizes the need for a broader range of gluten-free choices in the UK, aligning with the diverse dietary requirements of individuals with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.

A McDonald's spokesperson responded to the petition, noting that all UK staff undergo allergen awareness training, emphasizing the importance of preparing customized orders with clear allergen labeling. Despite the existing gluten-free offerings, the petition draws attention to the unmet demand for gluten-free burgers and a more comprehensive menu that accommodates a wider spectrum of dietary needs.

The petition has attracted notable support, including an endorsement from reality TV star Megan McKenna. As the number of signatures continues to climb, the movement highlights the growing demand for increased gluten-free options in popular fast-food chains, shedding light on the importance of accessible and diverse food choices for individuals with specific dietary requirements. McDonald's now faces increasing pressure to address these concerns and enhance its gluten-free offerings in the UK.

Read more at BBC News