Why can't some people consume gluten?

The two main reasons people don't eat gluten is either because they suffer from coeliac disease or have a gluten intolerance.

• Coeliac disease: An autoimmune disease in which the gluten attacks and causes permanent damage to the intestinal tissue and stomach lining.
• Gluten intolerance: Unlike coeliac disease, an intolerance isn't autoimmune and doesn't cause permanent damage.

Both do have debilitating symptoms that can be avoided by not eating gluten, including stomach pain, diarrhoea, constipation and fatigue.

How do caterers prevent cross contamination of foods?

Some people are incredibly sensitive to gluten and even a few breadcrumbs can cause symptoms, so they must stick to a very strict gluten free diet.

To ensure this doesn't happen, our catering partners can label any relevant items as gluten free and pack them in separate containers to food that does contain gluten. Please do let us know when you're ordering if there are any coeliacs or gluten intolerant people eating.

If there are any shared items items gluten free guests want as well, such as dips, sauces and spreads, we'd recommend letting them take their share first. This can avoid any potential cross contamination from other utensils that may be used.

How Using a catering company can help when Avoid gluten  it isn't all that obvious

Sometimes, gluten sneaks into our meals in places we'd least expect it: soy sauce (which often finds its way into marinades for meat), salad dressings and processed meats (including sausages).

Our professional catering partners know their dishes in and out and have been professionally preparing meals gluten free food for us for years. They know which items gluten sneaks into and have plenty of alternatives on hand to ensure everyone's able to safely consume their meal.

What are some gluten free finger food ideas?

Fresh fruit and veggie skewers, quality cured meats such as prosciutto, cheese and dips all make great gluten free finger foods. Corn chips, popcorn and plain potato chips are usually gluten- free too, and are easy options to place in bowls around the room for nibbles.

When it comes to hot foods, it's best to avoid anything that's battered unless it's noted as being gluten free, as it's likely been dredged in wheat flour.

What sort of foods can go on gluten free share platters?

Loads! Other than the bread and biscuits, most items that are usually found on share platters and grazing boards are gluten free. Simply replace any bread and biscuits with gluten free options or vegetables that work well with dips and cheeses, such as carrots, celery and capsicum.

For more about how to cater for gluten free diets and other dietary requirements, check out our special diets blog post.

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