What Exactly is a ‘Gluten-Free Burger’?

by | Jan 10, 2024 | Roofing Services

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No doubt you’ve seen “gluten-free” listed on restaurant menus and food packaging for many years now. After all, it’s hard to overlook!

But when you see it in front of something like burgers, it leaves you wondering: what exactly makes a burger gluten-free? Isn’t it just meat and a bun anyway?

Let’s break this down.

Avoiding Foods with Certain Proteins

Gluten refers to proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming these proteins causes negative health effects like abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue. Going gluten-free means strictly avoiding foods containing those proteins. This includes obvious bread and pasta, but also less obvious foods like soy sauce and salad dressings which often contain wheat.

Avoiding Gluten in Buns

Now onto burgers specifically. Traditional burger buns contain gluten. They’re often made with wheat flour, which contains gluten proteins. So in order for a burger to be truly gluten-free:

  • The bun must be made without wheat, barley or rye – using an alternative flour instead. Common replacements include rice flour, almond flour or even lettuce leaves.
  • The burger patty itself needs to be 100 percent beef with no breadcrumbs or wheat-based fillers mixed in. Watch out for pre-made patties containing questionable ingredients.
  • You need to verify other toppings are gluten-free too. Cheese and veggies are fine, but condiments like soy sauce often have wheat.

Gluten-Free Hamburgers in Garland TX

Therefore, a gluten-free burger swaps out the traditional flour-based bun for a gluten-free alternative. And all other ingredients must be gluten-free too. This allows someone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance to enjoy a burger safely.

It does take a little more effort and awareness when preparing or ordering. But the burger experience doesn’t have to be off limits for the gluten-free crowd! Now you know exactly what those two little words “gluten free” really mean when it comes to everyone’s favorite sandwich.

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