Table of Contents
Are Dunkin Donuts Gluten Free
Dunkin Donuts is a popular chain of coffee and baked goods restaurants that serves millions of customers every day. For people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding gluten-free options at Dunkin Donuts can be a challenge.
According to Celiac.com, the donuts and breakfast sandwiches at Dunkin Donuts are not gluten-free.
However, there are a few items on the menu that are safe for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Gluten-Free Options at Dunkin Donuts
Here are some gluten-free options available at Dunkin Donuts:
- Coffee: All of Dunkin Donuts’ coffee is gluten-free, including their hot and iced coffee, espresso drinks, and frozen coffee beverages.
- Tea: All of Dunkin Donuts’ tea is gluten-free, including their hot and iced tea and their tea lattes.
- Flavor Shots and Swirls: Dunkin Donuts offers a variety of flavor shots and swirls that are gluten-free, including vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, and more. However, it is important to note that some flavor shots and swirls may contain gluten, so it is always best to check with the staff before ordering.
- Smoothies: Dunkin Donuts’ fruit smoothies are gluten-free, but it is important to note that the smoothie mix may be processed in a facility that also processes gluten-containing ingredients.
- Hash Browns: Dunkin Donuts’ hash browns are gluten-free, but it is important to note that they are fried in the same fryer as other gluten-containing items, so cross-contamination is possible.
It is important to note that while these items are considered gluten-free, cross-contamination is still possible, especially in a fast-food environment.
Customers with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities should use caution when ordering at Dunkin Donuts and always inform the staff of their dietary restrictions.
Cross Contamination at Dunkin’ Donuts
Cross contamination is a significant concern for individuals with gluten allergies or celiac disease.
It occurs when gluten-free and gluten-containing foods come in contact or are prepared on the same surface or using the same utensils. Dunkin’ Donuts does not have a separate kitchen area for gluten-free products, which increases the risk of cross-contamination.
According to Healthline, Dunkin’ Donuts does not guarantee that any of their products are entirely gluten-free. Cross contamination may occur during food production and preparation, so foods that you think are gluten-free may not be.
To be on the safe side, it’s always a good idea to let the person taking your order know that you have a gluten allergy or celiac disease.
It is essential to note that Dunkin’ Donuts has stated that they cannot guarantee that any of their products are entirely free of allergens. While they have taken measures to minimize the risk of cross-contamination, they cannot guarantee that their products will not come into contact with allergens.
Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions if you have a gluten allergy or celiac disease. Some steps that you can take to minimize the risk of cross-contamination include:
- Requesting that your food be prepared separately and using clean utensils
- Avoiding foods that are cooked in the same oil as gluten-containing products
- Asking for your drink to be made in a clean blender or shaker
- Checking the ingredients of any add-ins or toppings that you choose to add to your drink
By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of cross-contamination and enjoy a safe and delicious meal or snack at Dunkin’ Donuts.
Gluten-Free Options at Dunkin’ Donuts
Unfortunately, none of their donuts or breakfast sandwiches are gluten-free. However, they do offer a few gluten-free options for those with gluten sensitivities.
Gluten-Free Menu Items
Dunkin’ Donuts has a few menu items that do not contain wheat or gluten ingredients. These include:
- Hash Browns
- Snacking Bacon
- Omelet Bites (Bacon & Cheddar, Egg White & Veggie)
- Bacon, Egg & Cheese Wake-Up Wrap (on a gluten-free wrap)
Note that cross-contamination is possible due to shared cooking spaces.
Gluten-Free Drinks
If you’re looking for a gluten-free drink option at Dunkin’ Donuts, you’re in luck. All of their hot and iced coffee and espresso drinks are gluten-free. You can also customize your drink with a variety of milk and flavor options.
Other Options
If you’re looking for a gluten-free snack, Dunkin’ Donuts recently introduced a gluten-free fudge brownie.
Additionally, their oatmeal is made with gluten-free oats and can be customized with a variety of toppings.
It’s important to note that Dunkin’ Donuts does not claim to be a gluten-free establishment, and cross-contamination is possible. If you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease, it’s best to avoid Dunkin’ Donuts altogether.
Overall, while Dunkin’ Donuts does not have a wide selection of gluten-free options, they do offer a few menu items and drinks that can accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Comparing Dunkin’ Donuts with Other Brands
When it comes to gluten-free options, Dunkin’ Donuts is often compared to other coffee and donut chains like Starbucks and Panera. Here’s a brief comparison of Dunkin’ Donuts with these other brands:
Starbucks
Starbucks offers a range of gluten-free options, including several breakfast sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
However, their gluten-free baked goods are limited to one option: the Marshmallow Dream Bar.
In terms of coffee and drinks, Starbucks offers a variety of gluten-free syrups and milk alternatives. However, it’s important to note that their seasonal drinks may not always be gluten-free.
Panera
Panera has a more extensive gluten-free menu than Dunkin’ Donuts, with options like soups, salads, sandwiches, and bowls.
They also offer gluten-free bread and bagels for an additional charge.
However, it’s important to note that while Panera takes precautions to avoid cross-contamination, they are not a certified gluten-free facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dunkin Donuts’ hash browns gluten-free?
According to Healthline, Dunkin Donuts’ hash browns are not gluten-free. They contain wheat flour, which is a source of gluten.
Is Dunkin Donuts safe for celiacs?
No, Dunkin Donuts is not safe for celiacs as none of their food products are gluten-free at this time, according to Celiac.com. They did try to develop some gluten-free products, but abandoned that effort in 2014.
Do Dunkin flavors have gluten?
Some Dunkin flavors contain gluten while others do not. The unsweetened and sugar-free flavor shots such as French Vanilla, Hazelnut, Caramel, Toasted Almond, Blueberry, Raspberry, Coconut, and Pumpkin are gluten-free, according to Urban Tastebud. However, the flavor swirls are not gluten-free except for the caramel swirl.
Are the egg bites at Dunkin gluten-free?
No, the egg bites at Dunkin are not gluten-free as they contain wheat flour, which is a source of gluten, according to Gluten Bee.
Who has gluten-free donuts?
Some bakeries and cafes offer gluten-free donuts. However, it is important to check with the establishment to ensure that their gluten-free donuts are prepared in a safe environment and are not cross-contaminated with gluten-containing products.
Does anyone make gluten-free doughnuts?
Yes, there are companies that specialize in making gluten-free donuts such as Katz Gluten Free, The Gluten-Free Bakery, and Erin McKenna’s Bakery. It is important to check the ingredients and manufacturing processes to ensure that the products are truly gluten-free.
