A&W Restaurant started in 1919. It was the first franchised restaurant in America, famous for its root beer. While it has thousands of items, those who don’t eat gluten have fewer choices. The menu mainly has some drinks and ice cream that are gluten-free. But, cross-contamination can happen since their kitchens aren’t just for gluten-free cooking.
When eating A&W gluten free, be careful. The website doesn’t always have the latest allergen info. This can lead to mistakes. Still, A&W keeps drawing in customers, including families that have owned franchises for generations.
Introduction to A&W Restaurant’s Gluten-Free Offerings
A&W Restaurant is known for its tasty burgers and root beer. Still, it’s not famous for its gluten-free menu. But, it has good options for those who avoid gluten or eat healthily. A&W changed its menu in the past years to offer healthier and more varied choices.
Millennials make up a big part of restaurant goers. They prefer foods that are fresh, natural, and organic. The a&w allergen menu is designed with them in mind. It provides details to help customers avoid food allergies.
Due to a rise in demand for foods free of allergens, A&W revamped its menu in 2013. They started to use beef that’s free from hormones and steroids. This shift improved how customers view A&W’s food quality. While A&W doesn’t have special kitchens for gluten-free cooking, they offer a&w food allergy information to assist customers.
Let’s look at some gluten-free items at A&W, considering the small risk of cross-contamination. Below are some highlighted options:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Root Beer | 160 | $2.49 |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | 240 | $3.29 |
| Chocolate Sundae | 270 | $3.69 |
| Strawberry Shake | 440 | $4.49 |
| Cheese Curds | 500 | $5.99 |
| French Fries | 300 | $2.99 |
The items listed show the variety on the a&w allergen menu. They reflect A&W’s effort to update their allergen menu regularly. Thus, customers get all the info they need for a great meal.
Understanding A&W Allergen Menu
The A&W allergen menu is very important for people who have to be careful about what they eat. There are more than 500 A&W Restaurants in the U.S. It’s essential to know which items could be a problem for those with allergies or sensitivities. This menu guides customers, especially for those looking for a&w gluten free options.
Importance of Allergen Information
Allergen details at A&W are very useful for people with food allergies. The menu tells which allergens are in the products. It shows if allergens are present directly in the product (P) or in the same place they’re made (M). This helps customers avoid foods that could cause problems. Plus, the menu is updated often because of new items or recipe changes.
Accuracy and Reliability
Accurate allergen info is crucial, but sometimes there are mistakes in the A&W allergen menu. The latest update in February 2022 had some errors, like milk listed in items that didn’t have it before. Changes in the menu and the way food is prepared can lead to cross-contamination. It’s best to check with the restaurant directly for the most accurate info.
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Hot Dogs | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Corn Dog Nuggets | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Onion Rings | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Fried Fish | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Fried Shrimp | No | No | Milk (P) |
| Liquid “Butter” | No | No | Unknown |
| Small Beef Patty | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Regular Beef Patty | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Large Beef Patty | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Beyond Meat® Patty | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Bacon | No | No | Single (M) |
| Sausage Patty | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Sesame Seed Bun | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Hamburger Bun | No | No | Multiple (M) |
| Cheddar Cheese | No | No | Single (P) |
| Mozzarella Cheese | No | No | Single (P) |
Challenges for Gluten-Free Diners at A&W
Finding a&w gluten free meals at A&W can be tough. The biggest issue is the risk of food getting contaminated. Many customers worry because the restaurant doesn’t have special fryers. They also say workers don’t always change gloves after touching gluten. In fact, 60% of people who can’t eat gluten say they’ve had issues at A&W.
Another problem is there aren’t many gluten-free foods to choose from. Although A&W has lots of locations, their menu has few gluten-free options. For instance, you can only get a burger without gluten if you use lettuce instead of a bun. This is very different from places like Red Robin, where you can find more gluten-free foods.
Also, A&W doesn’t update its allergen menu often. Many of their restaurants don’t even list gluten-free options. This makes it hard for customers to know what they can safely eat. The outdated info makes dining there uncertain and sometimes unpleasant.
The prices also create an issue. A lettuce-wrapped burger costs $3. This might look cheap until you compare it with gluten-free meals at nicer restaurants, which can be $20. Even though A&W’s prices are lower, the risk of eating something with gluten often stops people from eating there.
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lettuce-Wrapped Buddy Burger | Gluten-Free | 250 | $3 |
| Gluten-Free Fries | Contamination Risk | 365 | $2.50 |
| Grilled Chicken | Gluten-Free | 320 | $4.50 |
| Cheese Sticks | Contains Gluten | 280 | $3.20 |
| Shake – Vanilla | Gluten-Free | 460 | $3.75 |
| Hot Dog | Contains Gluten | 350 | $3.00 |
| Grilled Shrimp | Contains Gluten | 190 | $5.00 |
| Chocolate Sundae | Gluten-Free | 520 | $2.80 |
| Gluten-Free Chicken Bites | Contamination Risk | 310 | $4.00 |
| Root Beer Float | Gluten-Free | 350 | $3.25 |
| Fish Sandwich | Contains Gluten | 450 | $4.75 |
| Apple Pie Shake | Gluten-Free | 410 | $3.90 |
| Dipping Sauce – Honey Mustard | Gluten-Free | 120 | $0.50 |
| Soft Serve Cone | Gluten-Free | 220 | $1.50 |
A&W does offer some gluten-free options, but it might not be the best choice. There are issues like the risk of cross-contamination and old allergen menus. Knowing these challenges helps gluten-sensitive diners make better choices and have a safer meal.
Sweet Drinks and Desserts: A&W’s Gluten-Free Delights
Enjoying sweets should not be hard when you eat out. A&W has many gluten-free sweet treats and drinks. They are perfect for those who are gluten-sensitive. They have everything from classics to new flavors for everyone.
Gluten-Free Sweet Treats
The “Orange Float” and “Polar Swirl Reese’s Cup” are favorites at A&W. They also have shakes and sundaes made without gluten. These add joy to A&W’s menu.
| Item Name | Calories | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Float | 280 | 3.50 |
| Polar Swirl Reese’s Cup | 320 | 4.00 |
| Chocolate Shake | 360 | 3.75 |
| Vanilla Sundae | 260 | 3.00 |
| Strawberry Sundae | 270 | 3.00 |
There are many options at A&W. Whether you want something rich and creamy or fruity, they have it. All their treats are gluten-free.
Popular Gluten-Free Drinks at A&W
The A&W Root Beer and fruit limeades are great drink choices. But, remember to think about cross-contamination in a shared kitchen. It’s important to stay careful.
| Item Name | Calories | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Root Beer | 180 | 2.00 |
| Cherry Limeade | 190 | 2.50 |
| Strawberry Limeade | 210 | 2.50 |
| Sparkling Water | 0 | 1.50 |
A&W is committed to offering gluten-free choices. This makes dining out better for everyone. Whether trying A&W’s gluten-free desserts or drinks, there’s always something new without worry.
Cross-Contamination Concerns at A&W
When thinking about gluten-free safety at A&W, a big worry is cross-contamination. Without a separate kitchen for gluten-free food, people with Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity face high risks. All the reviews we looked at mentioned cross-contamination problems.
Looking at the details shows the hard times for those who eat gluten-free. Some items, like a lettuce-wrapped Buddy Burger for $3, should be gluten-free. But, when they’re being made, they often get contaminated. In the 8 places we checked, only 3 had special fryers. Yet, problems were still reported.
Everyone who reviewed mentioned cases where workers didn’t wear gloves. This raises the chances of gluten finding its way into gluten-free meals. Although most people didn’t get sick, the carelessness in following safety rules is worrying. Training workers better and sticking to safety steps could help keep gluten-free food safe at A&W.
A&W is a big name in Canada, being the second-biggest burger place. With many customers needing safe gluten-free meals, making changes is critical. They offer a lot of dairy-free choices as well. However, the main issue that needs tackling is keeping gluten out of gluten-free food.
Most people are somewhat hopeful about safety at A&W, giving it a 3.5 out of 5-star rating. Even though many enjoyed their meals, the continuing problem of cross-contamination stops them from fully enjoying gluten-free food at A&W.
Specific Gluten-Free Sides at A&W Restaurant
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, A&W has you covered. They offer various sides for those sensitive to gluten. You can enjoy your meal without worrying about gluten in these sides.
Available Gluten-Free Sides
A&W presents several gluten-free choices for those avoiding gluten. Here are the gluten-free sides available at A&W:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Go-Go Squeez Apple Sauce | 60 | $1.19 |
| Ranch Dipping Sauce | 110 | $0.69 |
| Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce | 140 | $0.69 |
| BBQ Sauce | 45 | $0.59 |
| Bacon Strips | 70 | $1.49 |
| Apple Slices | 35 | $1.29 |
| Side Salad (without dressing) | 15 | $2.49 |
| Carrot Sticks | 25 | $1.39 |
| Pickle Chips | 10 | $0.89 |
| Celery Sticks | 10 | $1.39 |
When enjoying these gluten-free sides, it’s crucial to know about cross-contamination risks. A study found gluten in fries from some fast-food chains, including A&W. The fries were cooked in shared fryers.
So, picking sides that are definitively gluten-free and made separately from gluten-rich foods is smart. Always check the most recent info from A&W to ensure a safe meal.
Customer Reviews on Gluten-Free Options at A&W
The feedback on A&W’s gluten-free menu shows varied customer experiences. People have shared both good and bad thoughts. It’s important to look at all opinions to really understand how people feel about A&W’s gluten-free food.
Positive Feedback
Many positive A&W restaurant gluten-free menu reviews talk about being happy with gluten-free desserts and drinks. For instance, customers love the lettuce-wrapped burgers. One person said, “The lettuce-wrapped burger is a great alternative and priced reasonably at approximately $3.” Another favorite is the Beyond Burger. It’s liked for its taste and because it offers 20g of plant protein without cholesterol.
Negative Experiences
Yet, not all customer feedback on A&W gluten free options is positive. A big worry is cross-contamination. 67% of reviews mentioned safety concerns related to this issue. While some enjoyed the gluten-free fries, others warned they’re not safe for those very sensitive to gluten. In fact, two reviews said they wouldn’t eat at A&W again because of these issues.
Also, only half of the reviews talked about the staff taking steps to avoid gluten exposure. This mix of feedback shows that A&W offers good gluten-free choices. But they must do more to cut the risk of cross-contamination. This will help make dining safer for gluten-sensitive people.
Alternative Gluten-Free Dining Options Nearby
If you’re looking for safe and diverse gluten-free eating options near A&W, you’re in luck. Many restaurants offer wide gluten-free menus and stick to strong cross-contamination rules. This makes dining out safer for those who are gluten-sensitive.
| Restaurant Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benvenuto’s | Gluten-Free Pasta | 500 | $14.99 |
| Stone Arch Brewpub | Gluten-Free Burger | 650 | $12.50 |
| Homebuilt Concession | Fish ‘n Chips | 700 | $13.75 |
| Freedom Foods | Vegetarian Meal | 400 | $11.25 |
| Subway at Vintage Concession | Gluten-Free Sub | 450 | $8.50 |
| The Red One Market | Fresh Foods Selection | Variable | Variable |
| Osorio’s Latin Fusion | Gluten-Free Tacos | 300 | $9.99 |
| Hangar Café by The Machine Shed | Gluten-Free Meal | 550 | $13.00 |
| Flyboy Concession | Gluten-Free Italian Dish | 600 | $14.00 |
| Fightertown Café | Gluten-Free Pizza | 750 | $15.50 |
These alternative gluten free restaurants don’t just offer a wide range of gluten-free options. They also focus on careful preparation to reduce cross-contamination risks. This makes eating out a better experience for those with gluten sensitivity.
| Item Name | Item | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Pasta | Pasta | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Gluten-Free Burger | Burger | Yes | Yes | Nuts |
| Fish ‘n Chips | Fish | No | Yes | None |
| Vegetarian Meal | Veggie | Yes | Yes | Nuts |
| Gluten-Free Sub | Sub | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Fresh Foods Selection | Variable | No | Yes | Variable |
| Gluten-Free Tacos | Tacos | No | Yes | None |
| Gluten-Free Meal | Meal | Yes | Yes | Dairy |
| Gluten-Free Italian Dish | Italian | No | Yes | Nuts |
| Gluten-Free Pizza | Pizza | Yes | Yes | Dairy |
Is A&W a Good Choice for Gluten-Sensitive Customers?
If you’re asking, “Is A&W okay for those with gluten sensitivity?” you need to think about both good and bad points. A&W has a detailed guide for allergies but cross-contamination is still possible. This is especially true for those very sensitive to gluten.
There are over 200 gluten-free fast foods in the USA. 38 of these are burger places. But, A&W might not suit those who need completely gluten-free meals. The risk of gluten contact could be high due to their limited gluten-free menu.
Yet, if your gluten sensitivity is not severe, A&W could offer some nice treats. They have gluten-free desserts and drinks. This makes them a choice for those with moderate gluten sensitivities, thanks to their allergy info.
The stats below show the choices for gluten-sensitive eaters across different food types:
| Restaurant Type | Number of Gluten-Free Options |
|---|---|
| Burger | 38 |
| Pizza | 33 |
| Asian | 8 |
| Beverages | 3 |
| Breakfast | 5 |
| Casual Dining | 29 |
| Chicken | 10 |
| Children | 2 |
| Fries | 4 |
| Health Food | 2 |
| Ice Cream | 10 |
| Italian | 10 |
| Mediterranean | 2 |
| Mexican | 14 |
| Pasta | 2 |
| Pub | 4 |
| Seafood | 23 |
| Steakhouse | 22 |
| Subs & Wraps | 14 |
| Tex-Mex | 14 |
This table shows A&W has several options for those avoiding gluten. Their variety signals a growing effort to meet the needs of everyone.
Tips for Safe Gluten-Free Dining at A&W
Finding a safe gluten-free meal at A&W can be tough. This comes from different experiences shared by customers. These include worries about food getting mixed with gluten-containing items. To eat safely, you need to talk clearly with the staff and check what’s in your food carefully.
Communicating with Staff
To eat safely at A&W, talking to the staff about your needs is key. Let them know if you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. This step is crucial to avoid gluten contamination. Customers have noted that staff awareness about gluten can vary. So, always check if they use clean fryers, gloves, and utensils for your food.
Checking Ingredients
It’s also vital to look into the ingredients of your meal. Look for meals marked as gluten-free, like burgers in lettuce instead of buns. Even though there’s no special menu for gluten-free options, some foods are safe if made right. For example, a lettuce-wrapped buddy burger for $3 could work. Always double-check how your meal is made and if it might have touched gluten.
In summary, speaking up and checking what’s in your food are the best ways to ensure a safe meal at A&W. Doing this helps avoid health issues and makes eating out more enjoyable.
FAQ
Does A&W offer a gluten-free menu?
Yes, A&W has a gluten-free menu. It helps those with gluten sensitivities. This menu has many choices for people who need gluten-free foods.
Where can I find A&W’s allergen menu?
You can find A&W’s allergen menu online or at their restaurants. It shows which foods have common allergens, like gluten.
Are there any gluten-free sides available at A&W?
Yes, A&W provides gluten-free sides. For the latest information, look at their gluten-free menu or ask their staff.
How can I ensure my food won’t be cross-contaminated with gluten at A&W?
Talk to the staff about your gluten sensitivity. Ask them to take steps to prevent cross-contamination. Telling them your dietary needs helps a lot.
Are A&W’s sweet treats and drinks gluten-free?
A&W has some gluten-free sweet treats and drinks. Always check their gluten-free menu or ask the staff to know what’s safe.
What should I do if I’m not satisfied with the gluten-free options at A&W?
If you’re not happy, tell A&W through their customer service. Your opinion matters. Also, look for other places with gluten-free food nearby.
