Tips for eating gluten-free in the workplace

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Eating Gluten- Free in the workplace does not have to be as difficult as you think. I know in the beginning it can seem daunting. It is not easy at times to have to explain that you have certain health needs pertaining to food. It can be tough to adjust to a different lifestyle, but once you get the hang of it, it will become easier to navigate. Just like at home, here are some simple tips to get started. 


Tip 1. Do you have a fridge in your office? Clear off a shelf to store gluten-free items. Keep them well-packaged, sealed and clearly labeled. Make sure to designate this section as gluten-free only. This way you can grab and go safely. 


Tip 2. Wash your dishes and utensils thoroughly with soap and water. You can also check with your office manager to see if the office will order extra supplies that you may need to keep a safe space in the kitchen area. If that is not possible, bring a few from home and store them separately from your co-workers. 


Tip 3. Do you have cabinet space? If so, ask your other co-workers if one of the cabinets can be a gluten-free zone. This cabinet can be a place where you can store your snacks and other items. They will be handy when you have that 3 pm snack attack and going to the vending machine is not an option. The plus to this option, you can fill it up with lots of healthy gluten-free options instead of the high sugar and salty items that are filled in the vending machines. 


Tip 4. Take a moment to wipe down any surfaces where you might prepare or place your meal. This will help to avoid mixing residual crumbs from gluten-containing foods. If you are unsure of the safety of a surface you are preparing your food or eating off, use a   napkin to place down, a disposable paper placemat, or even a flexible plastic cutting board that you can keep clean and separate from other utensils. This way your food does not have to touch spaces that gluten containing foods may have been around. 


You don't have to avoid co-workers in the lunch room, office kitchen, or eating area. You can create a safe space to enjoy lunch or munch on snacks throughout the day. It is crucial for your health not to isolate just because you have different health needs than others. Most individuals understand and would like to keep you safe and happy during work hours. You might even get a surprise gluten-free treat during office parties and celebrations.