Fact Check: Are bdubs fries gluten free?

Are Buffalo Wild Wings Fries Gluten Free?

Introduction

The claim regarding whether Buffalo Wild Wings (BWW) fries are gluten-free has garnered attention, particularly among those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The question arises from the nature of the restaurant's cooking practices, specifically concerning cross-contamination in shared fryers. This article will explore available information on the gluten-free status of BWW fries, examining various sources and their reliability.

What We Know

1. Cooking Practices: Buffalo Wild Wings states that their fried items, including fries, are cooked in the same oil as other items that may contain gluten. This raises concerns about cross-contamination, as noted in multiple sources 19.

2. Gluten-Free Menu: BWW does offer a gluten-free menu that includes certain items, but it explicitly states that no items are certified gluten-free due to the risk of cross-contamination 47.

3. Customer Guidance: Some sources recommend that customers request the kitchen staff to take precautions, such as cleaning workspaces and changing gloves, to minimize the risk of gluten exposure 38.

4. Potato Nature: Potatoes themselves are naturally gluten-free, which means that fries made from potatoes do not inherently contain gluten. However, the preparation method is critical in determining their safety for gluten-sensitive individuals 6.

5. Variability in Reporting: Some sources suggest that while fries are technically gluten-free, they are not safe for those with celiac disease due to shared fryers 9. Others mention that alternative options, like buffalo chips or tots, may be safer choices 8.

Analysis

The evidence surrounding the gluten-free status of Buffalo Wild Wings fries presents a complex picture.

• Source Reliability: The primary sources of information include BWW's official allergen guides and gluten-free menus, which are generally reliable but may have inherent bias as they come directly from the restaurant chain 47. Third-party sources, such as gluten-focused websites and food blogs, can provide additional perspectives but may also carry biases based on personal experiences or anecdotal evidence 2369.

• Cross-Contamination Risks: The consensus across multiple sources is that while the fries themselves do not contain gluten, the risk of cross-contamination in shared fryers is a significant concern. This is especially important for individuals with celiac disease, who must avoid even trace amounts of gluten 19.

• Methodology of Claims: The claims about the gluten-free status of fries often rely on the assumption that the cooking oil does not contain gluten. However, the lack of certification and the reliance on shared fryers complicate the matter. More rigorous testing or certification from independent gluten-free organizations would bolster the claims made by BWW and other sources.

• Conflicting Information: Some sources assert that BWW fries are not safe for gluten-sensitive individuals due to the shared fryer situation, while others imply that they can be consumed with caution 89. This inconsistency highlights the need for clearer communication from the restaurant regarding their practices.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly False

The claim that Buffalo Wild Wings fries are gluten-free is "mostly false" due to the significant risk of cross-contamination in shared fryers with gluten-containing items. While the fries themselves are made from gluten-free potatoes, the cooking practices employed by BWW raise serious concerns for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The restaurant does not certify any of its items as gluten-free, which further complicates the matter.

It is important to note that while some sources suggest that fries can be consumed with caution, the variability in reporting and the lack of independent verification of gluten-free status contribute to uncertainty. Individuals with severe gluten sensitivities should approach this claim with caution and consider alternative options.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding food safety and gluten-free claims, especially when it comes to dining out, as personal experiences and anecdotal evidence can vary widely. Always consult with restaurant staff and consider your own health needs when making dietary choices.

Sources

1. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten-Free Menu 2025 - nogluten.com
2. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu Items and Options - glutenbee.com
3. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu Items - mamaknowsglutenfree.com
4. Nutrition & Allergy Information | Buffalo Wild Wings - buffalowildwings.com
5. Nutrition & Allergen Guide - Buffalo Wild Wings - buffalowildwings.sa
6. 12 Gluten-Free Buffalo Wild Wings Menu Items and - spoonuniversity.com
7. PDF Buffalo Wild Wings Allergen & Preparation Guide - ctfassets.net
8. Gluten-Free at Buffalo Wild Wings - 2025 - findmeglutenfree.com
9. Buffalo Wild Wing's Gluten-Free Menu - celiac-disease.com
10. 11 Gluten-Free Buffalo Wild Wings Menu Items & How To Order Them - spoonuniversity.com