Fact Check: Are bdubs fries gluten free?

Are Buffalo Wild Wings Fries Gluten-Free?

Introduction

The claim in question is whether the French fries served at Buffalo Wild Wings (B-Dubs) are gluten-free. This inquiry is particularly relevant for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, who must avoid gluten to prevent adverse health effects. The answer is not straightforward, as it involves considerations of cross-contamination and preparation practices.

What We Know

1. Preparation and Allergen Information: According to Buffalo Wild Wings' official allergen and preparation guide, no items on their menu are certified gluten-free. They explicitly state that they cannot guarantee any item is free from allergens, including gluten, due to shared cooking equipment and preparation areas 12.

2. Cross-Contamination Risks: Multiple sources indicate that Buffalo Wild Wings fries are cooked in the same oil as other fried items, which raises concerns about cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods. For instance, a gluten-free menu guide notes that while potatoes themselves are gluten-free, the frying process can introduce gluten from other fried foods 359.

3. Consumer Experiences: Reviews on platforms like Find Me Gluten Free suggest mixed experiences, with an average rating of 3 stars out of 5. Many reviews highlight concerns about cross-contamination, which can be a significant issue for those with gluten sensitivities 4.

4. Recommendations for Ordering: Some sources provide tips for minimizing cross-contamination risks, such as requesting that kitchen staff change gloves, clean surfaces, and use separate utensils when preparing gluten-free orders 59.

5. General Gluten-Free Options: Buffalo Wild Wings does offer a gluten-free menu that includes various items, but fries are often mentioned with the caveat of potential gluten exposure due to shared frying practices 610.

Analysis

The reliability of the sources varies. The official Buffalo Wild Wings allergen guide 12 is a primary source and is critical for understanding the restaurant's policies regarding allergens. However, it is essential to note that this source may have inherent biases, as it is produced by the restaurant itself and aims to protect its liability.

Consumer review platforms like Find Me Gluten Free 4 provide anecdotal evidence but can be subjective and influenced by individual experiences. These reviews may not represent the overall safety of the food for all gluten-sensitive individuals.

The gluten-free menu guides 359 offer useful insights but should be approached with caution. They often rely on interpretations of the restaurant's policies and may not be officially sanctioned by Buffalo Wild Wings. Additionally, they may not fully account for the variability in preparation practices across different locations.

Overall, the methodology behind the claims regarding the gluten-free status of fries at Buffalo Wild Wings is complicated by the lack of certification and the risk of cross-contamination. Further independent testing or verification from health organizations could provide more definitive answers.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Buffalo Wild Wings fries are gluten-free is false. The evidence indicates that the fries are not certified gluten-free and are cooked in shared oil with other gluten-containing items, leading to a significant risk of cross-contamination. The official allergen guide from Buffalo Wild Wings explicitly states that they cannot guarantee any item is free from allergens, including gluten. Additionally, consumer experiences reflect concerns about the potential for gluten exposure, further supporting this conclusion.

It is important to note that while some individuals may choose to consume these fries and report no adverse effects, this does not negate the inherent risks associated with cross-contamination. The variability in preparation practices across different locations and the subjective nature of consumer reviews also highlight the limitations in the available evidence.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding gluten-free options and consult with healthcare professionals if they have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns.

Sources

1. Buffalo Wild Wings Nutrition & Allergy Information: Buffalo Wild Wings
2. Buffalo Wild Wings Allergen & Preparation Guide: Buffalo Wild Wings PDF
3. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten-Free Menu 2025: No Gluten
4. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu Items and Options: Gluten Bee
5. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu Items: Mama Knows Gluten Free
6. 11 Gluten-Free Buffalo Wild Wings Menu Items and How to Order Them: Spoon University
7. Buffalo Wild Wings Nutrition & Allergen Guide: Buffalo Wild Wings
8. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu: BWW Gluten Free
9. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu Guide 2023: Eating Works
10. Buffalo Wild Wings Gluten Free Menu: Raintree Restaurants