Gluten refers to a group of storage proteins found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye that trigger an autoimmune disorder called celiac disease, or CD. Other grains like corn and rice also contain gluten, but they don't trigger gluten sensitivity in people with CD. The Celiac Sprue Association advises that the best treatment for CD is elimination of gluten from the diet. While many state fair foods contain significant amounts of gluten, there are tasty alternatives.
Unprocessed Foods
With the current emphasis on healthy eating, state fairs offer plenty of unprocessed foods to balance out the traditional lineup of starchy fried foods. According to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center, five of the six fresh food groups are gluten-free. They include fresh, unprocessed additive-free dairy products, meat and meat alternatives, fruits and vegetables.
Sweets
The Iowa State Fair website publishes an extensive listing of gluten-free sweets, including caramel corn, caramel apple slices, cotton candy, ice cream cones, milkshakes, kettle corn, snow cones and shaved ice. When buying from a fair vendor, it's a good idea to find out how these treats are prepared, to make sure there's no added gluten.
Snacks
Many snack foods served at state fairs incorporate gluten-free starches such as corn and potatoes, or protein sources like meat and nuts. Roasted corn, pork chop on a stick, French fries, tostados and tacos made with corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, and nacho chips are typically gluten-free.
Entrees
Hamburgers and cheeseburgers are gluten-free. By avoiding the bun, fair-goers can enjoy a gluten-free meal at the Iowa State Fair. Other meal options include shish kebab, shrimp and chicken on a stick and grilled vegetable platters. Many salads are gluten-free, but salad dressings, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise and other condiments may contain gluten.
Beverages
Most state fair beverages are gluten-free, including iced tea, fruit juice, fruit punch, lemonade, milk and sports drinks. Beer and other alcoholic beverages made by fermentation of grains do contain gluten, although some manufacturers are now selling gluten-free versions. Wine and distilled alcohols like rum, vodka, gin and whiskey are gluten-free, according to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness.
Gluten-Free Vendors
Traditionally, baked goods such as cakes, pies, cookies, brownies and cupcakes are made with wheat flour that contains gluten. However, some state fairs are now attracting gluten-free vendors. For example, the Minnesota State Fair boasts a bakery and café that guarantee gluten-free desserts.
