Walmart, Aldi and Publix meat gluten free?

[Bar]

Hey,

I am an Israeli living in Florida. My sister comes to visit me and she has Celiac. Back in Israel all fresh meats are gluten free. How about here in the USA? We have Walmart, Aldi and Publix around an I couldnt find a clear answer if their fresh meats are gluten free.

 

Thanks!

[cyclinglady]

Most meats are gluten free (fresh beef, pork, lamb, poultry) as well as fish.    You have to worry about more processed meats like cooked seasoned chickens, deli meats, sausages, packaged and seasoned meats (e.g. corned beef brisket).  The USDA does try to follow the FDA requirements for labeling gluten free.  For example, I purchase a sausage brand that actually states that it is gluten free.  Otherwise read the label for added ingredients or check with the butcher.  Sometimes cross contamination can be an issue if they season in the butcher’s area of the grocery store and do not take precautions about cleaning areas between meat prepping.  Often they will place seasoned meats right next to fresh in a case.  The butcher can tell you (or let you read the label) if there is gluten in the seasoning they use (which is not going to be on a label of they have an old-fashioned meat case).  Poultry is usually very safe, since it is usually processed and packaged in a factory now.  

Pretty sure all Aldi’s And Walmart meat items come from a factory.  Only Publix has an in-store butcher area.  I could be wrong about Walmart though.  I think it depends on the area of the country.  I have safely eaten meat at Publix.  Wish we had one out here in California.  They are very customer service friendly and they help you to the car.  Good luck getting help here in California.  

Again, read the labels!  Enjoy your sister’s visit.  Use the “Find Me Gluten Free” app to locate restaurants that offer safe gluten-free food and be sure to read reviews based on celiac input.  If you head to Disney, you will find that it is celiac heaven!