Foods to Absolutely Avoid if You Suspect Gluten Sensitivity or Celiac Disease

47. Meal Delivery Kits & Pre-Portioned Prep Boxes: Convenient, but Risky

Meal kits may seem like a modern gluten-free solution—but unless they’re explicitly certified, they’re often filled with hidden gluten. Pre-marinated meats, spice blends, sauces, and breaded toppings in these boxes may use wheat-based thickeners or breadcrumbs, and there’s rarely transparency about cross-contamination in packaging facilities. Even gluten-free labeled recipes may include risk-prone ingredients like “soy sauce glaze” or “seasoned rice blend.” If you’re using a kit, vet the company’s gluten-free policy—or stick to DIY versions where you control every ingredient from scratch to plate.

48. Instant Gravy Mixes: Comfort with a Catch

That quick packet of instant gravy may warm your soul, but it could wreck your gut. Many gravy mixes use wheat flour as the primary thickener, along with gluten-containing flavor enhancers and stabilizers. Even savory-sounding versions like “beef” or “herb” often rely on barley malt or hydrolyzed wheat protein to mimic depth. And cross-contamination is nearly guaranteed in multipurpose manufacturing plants. If you’re craving rich, comforting gravy without the gut-wrenching aftermath, consider making your own using cornstarch, arrowroot, or certified gluten-free blends. It’s not just about taste—it’s about trust in every pour.