Tips for a Gluten Free Diet

Transitioning to college can be a big change, especially for those with dietary restrictions. Read our registered dietitian’s top tips for managing a gluten free diet at Iowa State University.

Gluten Free Diet
Tips
View daily menus with allergen and ingredient information at dining.iastate.edu/hours-menus/ to learn which options do not contain gluten. Tip: Use the “hide by allergen” feature for a quicker review!
Review menu labels in the dining center for quick allergen-information. Scan the QR code for a full ingredient list.
Go in with a plan. For a nutritionally-balance meal aim to include a source of protein, starch, fruits, and veggies. Gluten free starches that you will often see on campus include rice, quinoa, potatoes, corn tortillas, gluten free bread, and gluten free pasta.
If you have a wheat allergy or celiac disease, be mindful of high-risk areas, such as dessert stations, salad bars, and shared fryers, where there is a higher risk of cross contact. Never hesitate to ask our dining staff about the ingredients and preparation of menu items.

*Our dining staff are trained on special diets and cross contact prevention through FARECheck and make every effort to keep our guests safe. However, due to the nature of our commercial kitchens and shared fryers, we cannot guarantee no cross contact has occurred. Don’t hesitate to ask our cooks and dining staff if you have any questions regarding ingredients and/or food preparation.

  • Ann Parker012

    Ask Our Registered Dietitian

    Meal plan holders may email Registered Dietitian Ann Parker at diningrd@iastate.edu for assistance dining with gluten free dining.

Special Diet Pantry

Many students can self-manage their diet by using resources throughout campus like the Special Diet Pantry (SDP). It’s scheduled to open Fall 2025 within Seasons Marketplace. The SDP is an unrestricted space, but it may supplement a gluten free diet.

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Special Diet Kitchen

Students with documented medical dietary restrictions may consider requesting access to the Special Diet Kitchen (SDK) in Union Drive Marketplace. The SDK is a gluten free space where extra precautions are taken to prevent cross contact for those with food allergies.

Request Access