People who suffer from celiac disease--a digestive disorder caused by an intolerance of gluten--need to avoid foods that contain the protein. According to the Children's Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation, the following grains should be avoided as part of a gluten free diet: barley, bran, bulgur, couscous, durum, einkorn, emmer, farina, faro, graham flour, kamut, matzo, orzo, panko, rye, seitan, semolina, spelt, triticale, udon, wheat, wheat bran, wheat germ and wheat starch. Gluten-free items can be found at fast food restaurants, but you should be careful to check the ingredients.
Breakfast
Breakfast dishes like omelets that feature meat, eggs or cheese by themselves are gluten free. Fried potatoes like tater tots and hash browns may be gluten free on their own, but seasonings and batters used to coat them may contain gluten. Many fast food restaurants offer yogurt parfaits with fruit and granola which can easily be gluten-free if ordered without the granola.
Burgers, Sandwiches and Tacos
Burgers and sandwiches served without a bun or bread are gluten free. Avoid fried chicken alone or on sandwiches because gluten one of the ingredients in the batter used to make fried items. Tacos made with corn tortillas are gluten free.
Salads
All fresh fruits and vegetables are gluten free which, means salads are a good option at fast food restaurants. Avoid salads with crispy toppings because these often contain gluten. Corn tortilla chips are gluten free. Check ingredient labels on salad dressings because many dressings contain gluten.
Sides
French fries, tortilla chips, fruit and coleslaw are gluten-free side dishes. Be aware that French fries are often deep-fried in the same oil as foods containing gluten, which can cause a reaction in extremely sensitive individuals. Onions rings are not appropriate on a gluten-free diet because they are usually coated in wheat flour.
Desserts
Milkshakes, ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet and sorbets are gluten free. Do not order frozen dairy treats in a cone because cones contain gluten.
Beverages
Water, coffee, tea, 100 percent fruit juice, milk and soft drinks are allowed on a gluten free diet.
Condiments
Gluten free sweeteners include sugar, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies. Other fast food condiments that are gluten free are ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, relish and pickles.
