It’s worth reiterating Nancy’s warning; make sure you’re buying the GF version, as the older recipe will still be on the shelves for some time I’m sure.

Rice Chex Going Gluten-Free [About.com]

Rice Chex page on GeneralMills.com

According to the grocer:

Our dedication to you as a valued Trader Joe’s customer is to provide you with helpful information to make informed buying decisions because we know that you have specific dietary concerns.

While not what I would call reader-friendly, the list is a long one, which should be exciting for anyone tired of the treasure hunt.

Gluten-free foods at Trader Joe’s Trader Joe’s labeling system

“That’s great Bill, but what does this have to do with the task at hand?”

Glad you asked. Hopefully, it’s a glimpse into the future of gluten-free shopping:

From the get-go, Amazon Fresh lets you filter products based on its nutritional characteristics. Unlike other eCommerce sites I’ve used, this filter can be applied at any time. Meaning, if you check that little gluten-free box when you first arrive to the site, you are presented with gluten-free items (774 items if you’re counting). This effectively makes Amazon Fresh a boutique gluten-free grocer. A quick glance at Peapod and I see no such feature.

Even though it’s virtual – not to mention only serving Seattle for the time being – it was a great feeling to peruse the site knowing everything on the shelf was OK for me to eat. Now if I could only say the same for my local Dominick’s.

“On several different occasions people have started crying,” said Herrera, who decided to offer the wheat-free crust nine months ago after a family member was diagnosed with celiac disease, the most severe form of intolerance.
“One woman gave me a big hug and said, ‘I haven’t had pizza for 20 years,’ ” said Herrera. “She was thrilled to be able to enjoy pizza again.”
Herrera’s gluten-free offering is part of a growing dining trend, both in Utah and nationwide.

A gluten-free slice of heaven [Salt Lake Tribune]

Even their crackers are made from flax seed, ground vegetables and nuts, then formed and dehydrated into a crispy crust for many menu items. The owner has a medical background and is used to patrons coming in with a long list of allergies and dietary restrictions. According to her, many actually find that after following her eating plans and frequenting the restaurant, many sensitivities disappear.

Cousins I.V. also offers many unique drinks, smoothie-like concoctions, that will inspire you to explore their menu further each time you visit.

Gluten Free Tea Party with Chef Sunshine of Rise & Shine Desserts
4:00–6:00 p.m. Free, Registration Required

Lakefront Brewery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is making sure that’s true for Celiacs as well. New Grist, made from Sorghum and Rice Extract is the first gluten-free beer recognized by the U.S. government.

But they aren’t satisfied just making the beer. They want to get to know Celiacs everywhere. The New Grist Web site features a social network where New Grist lovers and people living gluten-free can create profiles, share information, start message threads, and more. You can even start your own New Grist blog.

We’re members ourselves, so come say hello and toast to New Grist!

Our goal is to raise awareness of the gluten-free options available to individuals, restaurants, and grocery stores in order to increase the standard of living for people with celiac disease.

Have ideas to help your fellow celiac? Please share!

Know of a great spot that was gluten-free savvy? Or maybe an event or new gluten-free product? Tell us about it and we’ll get the word out!

What they’ve done:

1. Trained Staff
The entire staff, from host to server, seems knowledgeable about gluten allergies and can point out menu items that are safe for particular allergies as well as other special dietary needs.

Weber’s Gluten-Free Menu

2. Pink Slip Protocol
When a guest alerts the server to an allergy, they note the special request on a pink slip. That slip goes directly to the general manager and the chef for approval. If they can’t make it happen, they let you know. But if they can, such as gluten-free potatoes or a bun-less burger, that confirm the meal order with the server. The pink slip accompanies your order the entire way, from order, to kitchen, and back to table.

3. Certification
According to manager Sean Moody of Weber Grill Chicago, the restaurant has also received gluten-free certification from a Chicago-based gluten-free society, which requires food testing by the University of Illinois and facility inspection. Certification for gluten-free also requires staff education and continuing participation in gluten awareness programs.

4. Looking to the Future of Gluten-Free
Weber Grill Chicago’s Assistant General Manager, Robyn (a Celiac herself), is actually a board member of the local Celiac awareness society. Her personal stake in gluten awareness will likely ensure that Weber Grill in Chicago, as well as other restaurants, will continue to push for more certifications and general gluten awareness in the area.