Gluten-Free Sodas?

[gwo8]

Hi--I'm new to gluten-free, as my 8 year old was just diagnosed. He likes soda and we let him have it as a treat sometimes, but I'm confused as to if it has caramel coloring...is it gluten-free or not? I've tried to research and it seems to have something to do with where it was manufactured. Just wondering. Learned today that KFC, even GRILLED chicken, won't work for him--they use the same tongs to serve it anyway. :-/ Taco Bell was our favorite "go-to" place, but I've learned that their taco meat isn't gluten-free...just at the beginning of this journey. Thanks for y'all's help!

[psawyer]

Welcome to our community.

Caramel color is one of those celiac urban myths that just won't go away.

Here is Shelley Case's take on it, from Gluten-Free Diet A Comprehensive Resource Guide:

Although gluten-containing ingredients (barley malt syrup and starch hydrolysates) can be used in the production of caramel color, North American companies use corn as it has a longer shelf life and makes a superior product. European companies use glucose derived from wheat starch, however caramel color is highly processed and contains no gluten.

[Emphasis in original]

[modiddly16]

KFC's grilled chicken is actually also dusted in flour before grilled, so its MUCH more than the tongs unfortunately!

[killernj13]

I am sure it is extremely tough on an 8 yr old. WOW - it is on adults as well.

You have probably heard this before but you need to focus on the foods he can have. Chipolte is a great alternative to Taco Bell as many of their meals can be served in a bowl. Also, for an alternative to KFC places like Red Robin's and Cheeseburger in Paradise are offering gluten-free buns for their burgers and chicken sandwiches.

The obvious issue here is cost as both these places are more expensive to the fast food alternative.

[Celtic Queen]

Chick fil a is another good alternative to KFC. They use dedicated fryers for their french fries and offer grilled chicken. I usually get their chargrilled chicken salad. Also, Hardees offers a low carb thickburger that comes on two slices of lettuce instead of a bun. But their fries are a no no.

[ScarlettsMommy]

Sodas are fine...at least Coke and Pepsi products. With other off name brands I would double check first. But I am an avid Coke drinker and drink it everyday! I did just get diagnosed as well, but this is the first thing I looked into!

[mindbodysoul]

My boyfriend and I drink Jones Soda, Izze, Reed's Ginger brews, as well as your typical drinks like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Mug root beer. I don't drink much soda and if I do I make sure it's as natural as possible, like Reeds. But besides that, we've not had any issues with soda as of yet, it's always good to check beforehand though.

As for fast food places, Wendy's is our go to place. Moe's and Chipotle are also safe for us.