Tailgating at football games
is an age long tradition, especially here in the south, aka home of the SEC.
Fans come from far and near to enjoy and participate in huge pre-game parties
of various sizes known as tailgating.
For most, game day is
eagerly anticipated with the promise of light banter and camaraderie with
friends—and just maybe with a few friendly foes. Coolers, grills and makeshift
camp sites litter the landscape along with folks clad in pom-poms and spirit
garb galore.
Team supporters of all ages
from the tiniest arm babies to the oldest cheerleader graze their way through
nibbles usually prepared by a whole bunch of friends partying together. Don’t
tell anyone I told you this, but beer flows like ice water in paper cups.
For those with Celiac
disease or those who are gluten intolerant, the party scene can suddenly look
pretty darn dim. The youngest party goers have parents to navigate the gluten
infested waters of tailgating for them, but the older ones are pretty much left
to their own devices.
Hey, let’s be honest here. Most
of us associate hotdogs, hamburgers, chili dogs, chips, store bought dips,
cookies, cakes and more with a tailgate feast. Those of college age and older have
been known to consume tons of beer while attending this age old tradition. So,
what’s wrong with this picture?
First, beer is off limits to
those suffering from Celiac disease or who are gluten intolerant because beer
is made with barley malt. Barley contains gluten.
Second, all the common
basics such as hamburger buns, hotdog buns, glazes, and so much more contain
gluten. Unless someone understands this huge problem, everything available to
eat may literally contain gluten, holding the key to the ruin of an otherwise
terrific day.
Third, cross contamination
is a huge problem. Even though the Celiac or gluten intolerant may bring gluten
free foods, if these foods are served on the same table with gluten laden foods,
the risk of cross contamination is extremely high. Only a crumb of an item
containing gluten drops into a gluten free food is enough to make some very,
very sick. I am giving you permission to be selfish, keeping your food to
yourself.
So, what how can the person
with Celiac disease or who is gluten intolerant protect him/herself and still
participate in the festivities of pre-game partying safely? Fear not! I have
several ideas to keep these folks safe.
1.
Begin planning
with lots of time to spare. Waiting until the last minute to prepare gluten
free tailgate food does not necessarily give you enough time to adequately ensure
a safe game day.
2.
Decide on a plan
of action. Think portable such as gluten free chips, dip and granola bars,
naturally gluten free foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and homemade
gluten free fair such as cookies, cracker jacks and more.
3.
Bring your own
equipment. YES! Your own stuff. A
small grill dedicated to preparing your
own foods and your own cooking utensils will help make your day so much better.
4.
Bring tons of
spare paper plates, napkins and disposable eating utensils. I like to use
chinette serving pieces. With all of these items, when in doubt, throw it out.
Following these few tips
will keep you safe so that you can unleash the party animal in you just waiting
to get out. Happy tailgating!
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