Very Very sensitive Celiac flying American Airlines (business class!)

[smoaky]

I am a very sensitive celiac (we all are, I just tend to have clear reactions for a long time!). Don't eat at restaurants unless they are 100% gluten free. Long ago gave up eating airline food; since I've only ever flown in coach I don't really care to try the purportedly gluten-free options. 

However, I have a trip coming up this week on American Airlines. With miles I was able to snag a cheap business class fare. I'm thrilled to get to sit in a premium seat etc. But the food is also meant to be a highlight of business or first class. American lists an option which is called "gluten-intolerant." Now, obviously, that immediately raises red flags. I am not gluten intolerant, I have Celiac, and react to the smallest amount of gluten - a spec of beer on the rim of a wine glass, and other forms of cross contamination. 

Though I might seem like a weirdo onboard, I would prefer to turn down any meal that even has the possibility of glutening me. What better way to *ruin* my first and maybe only business class flight by getting glutened and then sick the next day (it takes me 48 hours to get back to normal). 

Does anyone know much about American Airline's "gluten-intolerant" food? I suppose I can eat anything that is pre-packaged and certified, but the whole point of First and Business is you get real food cooked for you. Which, lol, is a big no usually!

Welcome any thoughts here. I'm leaning towards not eating anything they give me, but open to advice. I'm also contacting the airline but not sure they'll get CC etc.

Thanks!!!!

[tessa25]

52 minutes ago, smoaky said:

I suppose I can eat anything that is pre-packaged and certified, but the whole point of First and Business is you get real food cooked for you.

The food in first is no longer worth eating these days anyway. I would pack a nice sandwich, some chips and a cupcake and let everyone drool at my yummy meal.

[cyclinglady]

Good luck!  Even if I order gluten-free meals (e.g. international flights), there is a 50% chance that The gluten-free meal will make it on the plane even when I have called several times to confirm.  I bring my own food.    Cold items are placed in a collapsible cooler with a bag of ice.  The ice is discarded in the trash when going through TSA.  Then I ask a restaurant to refill my ziplock bags with fresh ice once I am in the terminal.  

My food is always better than what 1st class gets.  Come on....it is still airplane food!  Load up in free drinks if you want to indulge!  

Happy travels!  ✈️

[smoaky]

I will consult with American Airlines but not hopeful. Looks like preparing a meal is my best bet -- or just bringing snacks as usual.