Jump to content

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.


  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):
    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Our Content
    eNewsletter
    Donate

Traveling To The Uk

jmengert

By jmengert
in Traveling with Celiac Disease

Recommended Posts

jmengert Enthusiast
jmengert
Posted

I'm hoping that those of you who live in England or have traveled there can help me. I'm going to London and Cornwall at the end of December for 14 days. I'll be staying at my boyfriend's father's house, so I will have a kitchen. I am one of the celiacs who doesn't ever eat out; I am micro-sensitive and for me, it's just not worth it. So, I'm wondering two things: how good is the quality of gluten-free foods in England? I see that Tesco and Marks and Spencers has gluten-free items in their stores; are they good about not having cross-contamination issues? If these products are marked gluten-free, are they, indeed, gluten-free?

And, flying: can I bring food into the country, if I check it? I'm thinking canned tuna, english muffins, cookies, Larabars, Enjoy Life stuff, pots, pans, anything that will help me out. And, can I bring a meal onto the plane to eat on my way over, or is that stuff prohibited with all of the bans? I don't want to starve on a 7 hour flight! I've emailed the TSA, and they never wrote me back.

Thank you for any help anyone can provide! This is my first trip overseas since diagnosis 2 years ago, and I'm quite nervous!

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Budew Rookie
Budew
Posted

Relax.

Mom and I (both celiac) did great.

I was surprised that I always found great veggies (steamed) at all of the resturants.

I'm vegetarian and celiac and had no trouble.

I found some great Thia Food, better than I ever have found in the US.

The fresh markets are wonderful too.

You can get info on what you can bring through customs on-line. It has been a few years so I don't know the exact website.

Have fun!

nikki-uk Enthusiast
nikki-uk
Posted
I'm hoping that those of you who live in England or have traveled there can help me. I'm going to London and Cornwall at the end of December for 14 days. I'll be staying at my boyfriend's father's house, so I will have a kitchen. I am one of the celiacs who doesn't ever eat out; I am micro-sensitive and for me, it's just not worth it. So, I'm wondering two things: how good is the quality of gluten-free foods in England? I see that Tesco and Marks and Spencers has gluten-free items in their stores; are they good about not having cross-contamination issues? If these products are marked gluten-free, are they, indeed, gluten-free?

And, flying: can I bring food into the country, if I check it? I'm thinking canned tuna, english muffins, cookies, Larabars, Enjoy Life stuff, pots, pans, anything that will help me out. And, can I bring a meal onto the plane to eat on my way over, or is that stuff prohibited with all of the bans? I don't want to starve on a 7 hour flight! I've emailed the TSA, and they never wrote me back.

Thank you for any help anyone can provide! This is my first trip overseas since diagnosis 2 years ago, and I'm quite nervous!

Hi jmengert,

I live in UK (near London)

As far as supermarkets go I can only say that both my husband and son have both been fine with food marked gluten-free from Tesco and M&S - not much help I know.

We don't eat out much either so I wouldn't be able to confidently recommend any restaurants :blink:

Sainsbury's is another supermarket that has a 'free from' items.

Also a lesser known supermarket is Aldi who clearly mark their foods as gluten-free .

Not sure about coming into UK on a flight.

I know that they are always more hot on any flights incoming and outgoing from USA.

Having said that I think it's only liquids that are a problem.

When we flew to Spain from the UK in the summer we took a load of food in our suitcase - but at the time we weren't allowed any handluggage :blink:

Sorry I can't be of more help - have a great trip!! :)

DILIROTH Newbie
DILIROTH
Posted

I had no problems eating items from Tesco or Sainsbury or any other gluten-free items from the UK but I am not extremely sensitive to small amounts of Gluten so I can not verify their contents. But, the bread products taste much better than the ones you find in the states.

I had little trouble eating out in London because the staff was usually knowledgable on Gluten and had recomendations, if they didnt allready offer gluten-free options on the menu. Again, I have to add that the Thai food was extremely excellent at every restaurant I have been to!!!

In regards to your packing you can bring SEALED gluten-free items with you but customs may have a problem with any animal products including caned tuna so I wouldnt recomend that. I dont think there is much consistency in enforcing the rules. I have snuck some unopened food items on the plane and they let me pass since I had my daughter with me.

Also, even if you requested a gluten-free meal on the plane - if its packaged - read the ingredients carefully! I have found non gluten-free items within my special meal and even after complaining I still keep getting the same items so I usually try to prepare ahead as much as possible b/c its a long flight to go without eating.

Have fun and enjoy your trip!!!

Theresa

georgie Enthusiast
georgie
Posted
Also, even if you requested a gluten-free meal on the plane - if its packaged - read the ingredients carefully! I have found non gluten-free items within my special meal and even after complaining I still keep getting the same items so I usually try to prepare ahead as much as possible b/c its a long flight to go without eating.

Oh no ! Its a 24 hour flight from Australia !!

I found this site today which you may find useful. Open Original Shared Link

I can't even begin to imagine what my next trip will be like :( ....

aikiducky Apprentice
aikiducky
Posted

I'm very very sensitive and I haven't had any problems with the gluten free products at Tesco or Sainsbury's.

Not very scientific I know but for what it's worth. :)

Dunno about long flights, from here to England is one hour so I usually eat before. :)

Pauliina

jmengert Enthusiast
jmengert
Posted
  • Author

Thank you all for your replies! That's a bummer about not being able to check unsealed foods; I usually bake a lot before I go somewhere, but it looks like I won't be able to do that. It's nice to hear that I can seemingly trust the gluten-free labels--you never know!

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


  • 2 weeks later...
Sophiekins Rookie
Sophiekins
Posted

Hi Julie,

I'm supersensitive, but M&S gluten-free means gluten-free. . .you're good to go there. Tesco's own brand stuff is some of the best gluten-free food I've ever tasted - try their plain white bread. . .it is fab. It's easy to get stuff like canned tuna, etc. in the supermarkets - your larger supermarkets are the best bet for finding stuff that's gluten free. Anything branded DS will also be yummy and safe, and keep an eye out for Scotti rice pastas and instant risottos. . .tasty and mostly gluten-free (you have to check some of the risottos). Enjoy!

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Celiac.com:
    Join eNewsletter
    Donate
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):
    Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):



    Celiac.com Sponsors (A17-M):



  • Recent Activity

    1. trents
      - trents replied to catnapt's topic in Celiac Disease Pre-Diagnosis, Testing & Symptoms
      9

      how much gluten do I need to eat before blood tests?

      I might suggest you consider buckwheat groats. https://www.amazon.com/Anthonys-Organic-Hulled-Buckwheat-Groats/dp/B0D15QDVW7/ref=sr_1_4_pp?crid=GOFG11A8ZUMU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bk-hCrXgLpHqKS8QJnfKJLKbKzm2BS9tIFv3P9HjJ5swL1-02C3V819UZ845_kAwnxTUM8Qa69hKl0DfHAucO827k_rh7ZclIOPtAA9KjvEEYtaeUV06FJQyCoi5dwcfXRt8dx3cJ6ctEn2VIPaaFd0nOye2TkASgSRtdtKgvXEEXknFVYURBjXen...
    2. Scott Adams
      - Scott Adams replied to SilkieFairy's topic in Celiac Disease Pre-Diagnosis, Testing & Symptoms
      2

      IBS-D vs Celiac

      What you’re describing really does not read like typical IBS-D. The dramatic, rapid normalization of stool frequency and form after removing wheat, along with improved tolerance of legumes and plant foods, is a classic pattern seen in gluten-driven disease rather than functional IBS. IBS usually worsens with fiber and beans, not improves. The fact that y...
    3. Scott Adams
      - Scott Adams replied to Amy Barnett's topic in Gluten-Free Foods, Products, Shopping & Medications
      1

      Question

      Here are some results from a search: Top Liquid Multivitamin Picks for Celiac Needs MaryRuth's Liquid Morning Multivitamin Essentials+ – Excellent daily choice with a broad vitamin/mineral profile, easy to absorb, gluten-free, vegan, and great overall value. MaryRuth's Liquid Morning Multivitamin – Classic, well-reviewed gluten-free liquid mul...
    4. Scott Adams
      - Scott Adams commented on Scott Adams's article in Multiple Sclerosis and Celiac Disease
      2

      Gluten-Free Diet Linked to Reduced Inflammation and Improved Outcomes in Multiple Sclerosis (+Video)

      Better to know late than never, and it is too bad they did not test you for it earlier!
    5. Scott Adams
      0

      Koikoi Trading Inc., Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat and Sesame in FU ZHOU FISH BALL

  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):

  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      133,322
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    Moooey
    Newest Member
    Moooey
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      121.6k
    • Total Posts
      1m
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):

  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • trents
      how much gluten do I need to eat before blood tests?

      By trents · Posted

      I might suggest you consider buckwheat groats. https://www.amazon.com/Anthonys-Organic-Hulled-Buckwheat-Groats/dp/B0D15QDVW7/ref=sr_1_4_pp?crid=GOFG11A8ZUMU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bk-hCrXgLpHqKS8QJnfKJLKbKzm2BS9tIFv3P9HjJ5swL1-02C3V819UZ845_kAwnxTUM8Qa69hKl0DfHAucO827k_rh7ZclIOPtAA9KjvEEYtaeUV06FJQyCoi5dwcfXRt8dx3cJ6ctEn2VIPaaFd0nOye2TkASgSRtdtKgvXEEXknFVYURBjXen1Nc7EtAlJyJbU8EhB89ElCGFPRavEQkTFHv9V2Zh1EMAPRno7UajBpLCQ-1JfC5jKUyzfgsf7jN5L6yfZSgjhnwEbg6KKwWrKeghga8W_CAhEEw9N0.eDBrhYWsjgEFud6ZE03iun0-AEaGfNS1q4ILLjZz7Fs&dib_tag=se&keywords=buckwheat%2Bgroats&qid=1769980587&s=grocery&sprefix=buchwheat%2Bgroats%2Cgrocery%2C249&sr=1-4&th=1 Takes about 10 minutes to cook. Incidentally, I don't like quinoa either. Reminds me and smells to me like wet grass seed. When its not washed before cooking it makes me ill because of saponins in the seed coat. Yes, it can be difficult to get much dietary calcium without dairy. But in many cases, it's not the amount of calcium in the diet that is the problem but the poor uptake of it. And too much calcium supplementation can interfere with the absorption of vitamins and minerals in general because it raises gut pH.
    • Scott Adams
      IBS-D vs Celiac

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      What you’re describing really does not read like typical IBS-D. The dramatic, rapid normalization of stool frequency and form after removing wheat, along with improved tolerance of legumes and plant foods, is a classic pattern seen in gluten-driven disease rather than functional IBS. IBS usually worsens with fiber and beans, not improves. The fact that you carry HLA-DQ2.2 means celiac disease is absolutely possible, even if it’s less common than DQ2.5, and many people with DQ2.2 present later and are under-diagnosed. Your hesitation to reintroduce gluten is completely understandable — quality of life matters — and many people in your position choose to remain strictly gluten-free and treat it as medically necessary even without formal biopsy confirmation. If and when you’re ready, a physician can help you weigh options like limited gluten challenge, serology history, or documentation as “probable celiac.” What’s clear is that this wasn’t just random IBS — you identified the trigger, and your body has been very consistent in its response.
    • Scott Adams
      Question

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Here are some results from a search: Top Liquid Multivitamin Picks for Celiac Needs MaryRuth's Liquid Morning Multivitamin Essentials+ – Excellent daily choice with a broad vitamin/mineral profile, easy to absorb, gluten-free, vegan, and great overall value. MaryRuth's Liquid Morning Multivitamin – Classic, well-reviewed gluten-free liquid multivitamin with essential nutrients in a readily absorbable form. MaryRuth's Morning Multivitamin w/ Hair Growth – Adds beauty-supporting ingredients (biotin, B vitamins), also gluten-free and easy to take. New Chapter Liquid Multivitamin and New Chapter Liquid Multivitamin Orange Mango – Fermented liquid form with extra nutrients and good tolerability if you prefer a whole-food-based formula. Nature's Plus Source Of Life Gold Liquid – Premium option with a broad spectrum of vitamins and plant-based nutrients. Floradix Epresat Adult Liquid Multivitamin – Highly rated gluten-free German-made liquid, good choice if taste and natural ingredients matter. NOW Foods Liquid Multi Tropical Orange – Budget-friendly liquid multivitamin with solid nutrient coverage.
    • catnapt
      how much gluten do I need to eat before blood tests?

      By catnapt · Posted

      oh that's interesting... it's hard to say for sure but it has *seemed* like oats might be causing me some vague issues in the past few months. It's odd that I never really connect specific symptoms to foods, it's more of an all over feeling of unwellness after  eating them.  If it happens a few times after eating the same foods- I cut back or avoid them. for this reason I avoid dairy and eggs.  So far this has worked well for me.  oh, I have some of Bob's Red Mill Mighty Tasty Hot cereal and I love it! it's hard to find but I will be looking for more.  for the next few weeks I'm going to be concentrating on whole fresh fruits and veggies and beans and nuts and seeds. I'll have to find out if grains are truly necessary in our diet. I buy brown rice pasta but only eat that maybe once a month at most. Never liked quinoa. And all the other exotic sounding grains seem to be time consuming to prepare. Something to look at later. I love beans and to me they provide the heft and calories that make me feel full for a lot longer than a big bowl of broccoli or other veggies. I can't even tolerate the plant milks right now.  I have reached out to the endo for guidance regarding calcium intake - she wants me to consume 1000mgs from food daily and I'm not able to get to more than 600mgs right now.  not supposed to use a supplement until after my next round of testing for hyperparathyroidism.   thanks again- you seem to know quite a bit about celiac.  
    • trents
      IBS-D vs Celiac

      By trents · Posted

      Welcome to the celiac.com community, @SilkieFairy! You could also have NCGS (Non Celiac Gluten Sensitivity) as opposed to celiac disease. They share many of the same symptoms, especially the GI ones. There is no test for NCGS. Celiac disease must first be ruled out.
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

NOTICE: This site places This site places cookies on your device (Cookie settings). on your device. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.