Which Is The Better Option?

[BlessedMommy]

If you're at a family gathering and let's say that you know for sure that something is gluten-free, because someone else brought a prepackaged item and you took it out of the package yourself and put it in the bowl. Then you put tongs in the bowl so people won't be handling their food and then touching the gluten-free stuff.

 

Then someone proceeds to grab those chips with their hands. 

 

Is it preferable to simply quietly grab your chips and dip first (and do the same with any other guaranteed gluten-free food item)  or to remind everyone to please use the tongs?

 

I mentioned that people should use the tongs to maintain cleanliness and prevent gluten contamination and someone made a comment about me being OCD over it. 

 

With another gluten-free food item, I simply got what I wanted and as soon as I saw someone CC'ing them, I didn't get any more.

[kareng]

I don't trust them to use the tongs or spoon. I get my food first and/ or save some back for me. Like, I will pour out the chips, serve myself a few and keep a few in the bag in case I need more. If the only thing currently served is some appetizers - gluten-free chips and gluten-free dip and carrots - it's not likely to get glutened. If there are also crackers and cheese, I worry about cc.

[BlessedMommy]

I think that you're right. People don't really "get" it, as much as they try to and I don't really care to seem any more paranoid than necessary. I'll just set aside mine and say nothing.

[cyclinglady]

I agree with Karen's suggestions. I am hosting Easter and this year I am allowing a cross sweet bread and rye in the backyard. There's a dedicated table for sandwich making. My FIL is being condiments from his frig. We will go first thru the gluten-free Buffett. I am holding back some of the food. I made a bunch and I want the leftovers. Better to refill the serving dishes.

[NoGlutenCooties]

IMO... I would grab your food before anyone has had a chance to contaminate it and then don't touch it again.  Not that I really care about accusations of being "OCD" (that's their problem) - but it avoids that whole conversation.  It also alleviates you from hawk-watching, tong-duty.  And it's just plain safer.