Dietary restrictions don’t cross the minds of everyday Americans. While people without them eat whatever they want, those with dietary restrictions are often left in the dust. This specifically applies to those who eat gluten free because of Celiac Disease or other autoimmune diseases.
Jackie Tucker, UMass Boston student, describes her experience of having Celiac in the U.S., saying, “I’m frequently nervous as there is no guarantee I can eat anywhere that is safe. I’ve noticed that in some states, I have a much harder time finding anything to eat than in Massachusetts (my home state).”
This is a common feeling by many Celiacs. Because it causes over 200 symptoms, according to celiac.org (1), it causes a huge mental burden on anyone with the disease. These “gluten-attacks” can also take months to get back to normal according to @noglutengabby on TikTok (2).
Tucker also says, “America overall is definitely far behind other countries in terms of Celiac safety, but at least restaurants and grocery stores in Massachusetts try.” Other countries are actually extremely far ahead of the United States in terms of Celiac safety.
Italy has founded an Italian Celiac Association to help citizens with Celiac Disease. They provide certifications to restaurants so patrons know if their food is safe. They also provide monthly stipends to citizens with Celiac to cover the extra costs of buying gluten free food. On average gluten free products are 242% more expensive according to nih.gov. The stipend helps cover this cost and any additional charges for buying gluten free at restaurants.
The culture surrounding gluten free food in Italy is also different. In the United States, people are met with a puzzled stare when they mention their Celiac disease and Celiacs are often told that being gluten free is just a fad diet.
In Italy, Celiac awareness is huge. Children are tested for Celiac at a young age and schools provide gluten free food for them. Adults aren’t ridiculed when they say they follow a gluten free diet. Because foods with gluten are such a huge part of Italian culture, Celiacs are met with sympathy when they explain their condition.
For any Celiacs visiting Italy sometime soon, or for those who want to, here are a couple places you can eat. Sgrano is a completely gluten free eatery providing delicious gluten free sandwiches. Gluten free bread and pastries are must-trys when visiting. Bar 50 Rosso is a traditional Italian breakfast place, providing several delicious gluten free pastries.
Grom is an entirely gluten free gelateria, with gluten free cones and gluten free flavors. Ristorante Quinoa is again entirely gluten free and provides gluten free dishes from around the world, with gluten free pizza and Pad Thai.
The gluten free food in Italy is also a different quality than the gluten free food in the U.S. Gluten free food in the U.S. tends to be heavy, dense, and falls apart easily. That’s usually how Celiacs are able to tell that their food is gluten free. In Italy though, the gluten free food is held to the same standards as regular food. The pizza dough is thick and airy. Croissants and flaky and light. Bread is crusty and stays together. It’s a Celiac’s dream.
If any Celiac ever has the opportunity to visit Italy, do it. It will change your life. Maybe try taking a gluten free cooking class when you’re there so there can be a taste of gluten free Italian food brought back to America.
- https://celiac.org/about-celiac-disease/symptoms-of-celiac-disease/
- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8By4Ae7/
