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McDonalds Gluten Free – Everything You Need To Know

Explore the options for McDonalds gluten free meals in the UK, where you can find tasty choices without the worry of gluten.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the gluten-free options available on the McDonald’s menu.

We’ll look at what you can enjoy and how to adapt your order for a safer coeliac dining experience.

Nevertheless, with a fast-food chain famed for its burgers, fries, nuggets, and breakfast muffins, what is gluten free at McDonald’s, or is their menu a complete no-go for anyone with coeliac disease?

Well, as we’ll soon learn, the McDonald’s gluten free menu is surprisingly plentiful, giving you options such as ordering your burgers bunless, or opting for breakfast muffins without the English muffins.

Moreover, for coeliacs or folks with severe gluten allergies, their iconic hash browns and French fries are also totally gluten free at McDonald’s, assuming, of course, they’re cooked in dedicated fryers.

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McDonald’s Allergen Policy (Gluten Free)

Navigating fast food dining options as a coeliac can be quite a challenge. Understanding allergen information is essential, and McDonald’s UK does its best to provide clear information.

McDonald’s UK does not offer a specific gluten-free menu. Instead, they provide an allergen menu that details which items may contain gluten.

According to their official policy, McDonald’s states that they cannot guarantee any food is gluten-free due to the risk of cross-contamination in their kitchens.

This means that while some menu items do not contain gluten ingredients, the potential for cross-contact exists because of shared cooking equipment.

The allergen menu highlights that several items are free from gluten-containing ingredients, such as French fries, hash browns, and certain drinks.

However, the company emphasises that they cannot make claims about the safety of these items for individuals with coeliac disease or severe gluten sensitivities.

In summary, if you’re looking for gluten-free options at McDonald’s UK, it’s essential to be aware of their allergen policy and understand the risks involved. Always check with staff about preparation methods and cross-contamination to make informed choices when dining out.

This information was correct at the time of printing, January 2025.

If you are here for McDonald’s, then you should definitely see what gluten-free menu options are available at Burger King, Costa, Nando’s, Subway, Greggs, Pizza Hut, Pizza Express, Jimmy John’s, Red Robin, Waffle House, Outback Steakhouse, Firehouse Subs, Panda Express, Applebee’s, Chick-fil-A and KFC.

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Burgers

McDonald’s UK does not currently offer a gluten-free burger bun, which limits options for those with coeliac disease.

However, there are still opportunities for you to enjoy delicious gluten free McDonald’s burgers when ordering them without the bun (aka, a ‘bunless’ burger).

Burgers and Their Gluten-Free Status

All McDonald’s burgers are made with gluten-free ingredients, other than the burger buns. The beef patties, cheddar cheese, grilled onions, red onion rings, pickle slices and lettuce are all naturally gluten-free.

Bunless Burger Options

While McDonald’s does not officially serve “bunless burgers,” customers can easily request their burgers without the buns. This allows for a safer option for those avoiding gluten.

Simply inform the staff when ordering, and they will accommodate your request.

For example, you could order:

• A Big Mac without the bun and enjoy the beef patties, lettuce, and special sauce in a box.
• A Quarter Pounder with Cheese served without the sesame seed bun.

In summary, while McDonald’s does not provide gluten-free buns, ordering burgers without the buns is a viable option for those looking to enjoy their meals.

Burger menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ Big Mac – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Quarter Pounder with Cheese – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Double Big Ma – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Bacon Double Cheeseburger – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Double Cheeseburger – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Cheeseburger – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Hamburger – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Triple Cheeseburger – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ McPlant – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)
❌ Vegetable Deluxe – contains gluten (✅ Can be ordered bunless)

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McNuggets, Selects & Veggie Dippers

When it comes to dining at McDonald’s in the UK as a coeliac, navigating the menu can be quite a challenge.

While the fast-food giant does not offer a dedicated gluten-free menu, there are still some options available for those of us who need to avoid gluten.

Here’s a breakdown of the gluten-free status of their Chicken McNuggets, Selects, and Veggie Dippers.

Chicken McNuggets

Unfortunately, McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets are not gluten-free. They are coated in a breading that contains wheat flour, making them unsuitable for anyone with coeliac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Chicken Selects

Similar to the nuggets, McDonald’s Chicken Selects also contain gluten. The breading used for these select pieces includes wheat flour, which means they are not safe for coeliac diners.

Veggie Dippers

The Veggie Dippers at McDonald’s are indeed gluten-free. Which means they are suitable for a gluten-free diet.

McNuggets, Selects & Veggie Dippers menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ Chicken McNuggets – not gluten-free (contain wheat flour)
❌ Chicken Selects – not gluten-free (contain wheat flour)
✅ Veggie Dippers

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Wraps & Salads

Unfortunately, all wraps at McDonald’s are not gluten-free. The tortilla wraps themselves contain wheat, making them unsuitable for anyone with coeliac disease. Therefore, if you’re craving a wrap, it’s best to look elsewhere or opt for something else on the menu.

While many salad ingredients are naturally gluten-free, McDonald’s has specific warnings regarding cross-contamination:

• Side Salad: Technically gluten-free but carries a “may contain” warning due to potential cross-contamination from crispy onions used in the kitchen.
• Grilled Chicken Salad: Also has a “may contain” warning for gluten.
• Grilled Chicken and Bacon Salad: Similar to the above, this salad is not guaranteed to be gluten-free due to handling practices.

Salads cross-contamination warning

As with other menu items at McDonald’s, there is always a risk of cross-contamination. The handling of ingredients in shared spaces can lead to traces of gluten being present in salads that are otherwise gluten-free.

In summary, while McDonald’s offers some salads that could be suitable for coeliacs, the risk of gluten contamination means they should be approached with caution.

Wraps are not an option at all for those avoiding gluten. Always stay vigilant and prioritize your health when dining out!

Wraps & Salads menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ Wraps – contains gluten
⚠️ Side Salad – may contain gluten (due to cross-contamination)
⚠️ Grilled Chicken Salad – may contain gluten (due to cross-contamination)
⚠️ Grilled Chicken and Bacon Salad – may contain gluten (due to cross-contamination)
❌ Cripsy chicken salads – contains gluten (in the batter)

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Fries & Sides

When it comes to enjoying fries and sides at McDonald’s in the UK as a coeliac, some options can fit into a gluten-free diet.

Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect:

Fries

McDonald’s French Fries in the UK are gluten-free. They do not contain any gluten-containing ingredients and are cooked in dedicated fryers, which significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

However, it’s essential to note that while the fries themselves are gluten-free, they may be prepared in the same kitchen as other items that contain gluten. This means there is still a potential for cross-contamination, so it’s wise to ask staff about their procedures when ordering.

Sides

Several sides at McDonald’s are also gluten-free or can be considered safe options:

• Hash Browns: These are gluten-free and cooked in dedicated fryers, making them a safe choice for coeliacs.
• Fruit Bags: A naturally gluten-free option that provides a refreshing side.
• Carrot Sticks: Another healthy, gluten-free side option.
• Shaker Side Salad® with Balsamic Dressing: This salad is gluten-free but should be approached with caution regarding cross-contamination.

In summary, while McDonald’s offers some gluten-free options in their fries and sides menu, being cautious is key.

Fries & Sides menu gluten-free breakdown

✅ French Fries (cooked in dedicated fryers)
✅ Hash Browns (cooked in dedicated fryers)
✅ Fruit Bags
✅ Carrot Sticks
⚠️ Shaker Side Salad® with Balsamic Dressing – gluten-free (with cross-contamination risk)

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Breakfast Menu

When it comes to breakfast at McDonald’s, coeliacs can find a few options, albeit with some limitations. While there are no gluten-free bread products available, several items can be enjoyed without the bread.

Here’s a closer look at what you can have for breakfast:

Breakfast Options

While McDonald’s does not offer gluten-free bread, you can still enjoy several items from their breakfast menu by ordering them without the bread component (going “bunless”).

Here are the gluten-free options:

• Mighty McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.
• Breakfast Roll: Order without the roll.
• Bacon Roll: Order without the roll.
• Double Bacon & Egg McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.
• Sausage & Egg McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.
• Bacon & Egg McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.
• Double Sausage & Egg McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.
• Egg & Cheese McMuffin: Order without the English muffin.

Naturally Gluten-Free Items

In addition to the modified sandwiches, there are naturally gluten-free items on the breakfast menu:

• Hash Browns: These are gluten-free and safe for coeliacs as they are cooked in dedicated fryers.
• Eggs: All types of eggs served are gluten-free.
• Pork Sausage Patty: This is also gluten-free and can be included in your breakfast order.

Summary of Options

• Breakfast Items (without bread):
  • Mighty McMuffin (without muffin)
  • Breakfast Roll (without roll)
  • Bacon Roll (without roll)
  • Double Bacon & Egg McMuffin (without muffin)
  • Sausage & Egg McMuffin (without muffin)
  • Bacon & Egg McMuffin (without muffin)
  • Double Sausage & Egg McMuffin (without muffin)
  • Egg & Cheese McMuffin (without muffin)
• Gluten-Free Items:
  • Hash Browns
  • Eggs
  • Pork Sausage Patty

In conclusion, while breakfast at McDonald’s can be a bit tricky for those of us with coeliac disease, there are still options available. By ordering items without their bread components and being cautious about cross-contamination, you can enjoy a meal that fits your dietary needs.

Breakfast Menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ Breakfast Wrap with Ketchup – contains wheat
❌ Breakfast Wrap with Brown Sauce – contains wheat
❌ Mighty McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Breakfast Roll (✅ without roll)
❌ Bacon Roll (✅ without roll)
❌ Double Bacon & Egg McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Sausage & Egg McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Bacon & Egg McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Double Sausage & Egg McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Egg & Cheese McMuffin (✅ without English muffin)
❌ Cheesy Bacon Flatbread – contains wheat
❌ Muffin with Jam – contains wheat
❌ Pancakes & Syrup – contains wheat
❌ Pancakes & Sausage – contains wheat
✅ Hash Browns
✅ Eggs
✅ Pork Sausage Patty
✅ Pineapple Stick

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Vegetarian

When it comes to dining out as a coeliac, navigating the menu at McDonald’s can feel a bit daunting, especially if you’re vegetarian.

However, there are some gluten-free options that can make your experience enjoyable and tasty. Here’s a breakdown of what you can choose from their vegetarian menu:

Veggie Dippers

The star of the show for vegetarians is undoubtedly the Veggie Dippers. These crispy, golden dippers are not only gluten-free but also vegan, making them a tasty choice.

Hash Browns

Another safe bet is the Hash Browns, which are gluten-free and can be enjoyed alongside your Veggie Dippers. They are cooked in dedicated fryers, ensuring they remain safe for coeliacs.

Sides

You can also opt for the French Fries, which are gluten-free as they are cooked in dedicated fryers using non-hydrogenated vegetable oil. Pairing these with your Veggie Dippers makes for a satisfying meal.

Salads

For something lighter, consider the Shaker Side Salad with balsamic dressing. This is a refreshing option that complements your meal nicely while keeping it gluten-free.

Drinks

All soft drinks at McDonald’s are gluten-free, so you can enjoy a fizzy drink without worry. Just steer clear of any seasonal or limited-time beverages that might have cross-contamination warnings.

Note: Unfortunately, McDonald’s does not currently offer gluten-free buns for their burgers or sandwiches, which can be disappointing for many coeliacs longing for a classic burger experience.

However, you can still enjoy a burger by ordering it without the bun, such as the McPlant or any other burger option without bread.

In summary, while dining out at McDonald’s as a coeliac vegetarian may not provide a full-fledged burger experience, there are still tasty and safe options to enjoy. With a little communication and awareness, you can have a pleasant meal out with friends or family without feeling left out.

Vegetarian menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ McPlant – (✅ without the bun)
❌ Vegetable Deluxe – (✅ without the bun)
✅ Veggie Dippers
❌ The Spicy Veggie One
✅ Side Salad
✅ Fruit Bag
✅ Hash Browns
✅ French Fries
✅ Carrot Sticks
✅ Balsamic Dressing

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Vegan

McDonald’s has made strides in offering vegan options, and for those following a gluten-free diet, there are several choices available that cater to both dietary needs.

Here’s a review of the gluten-free options on the vegan part of their menu:

McPlant Burger

The McPlant is a standout option for vegans and is also gluten-free when ordered without the bun. This burger features a patty made from Beyond Meat, topped with vegan sauce, mustard, ketchup, onions, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and vegan cheese.

It’s cooked using dedicated utensils to avoid cross-contamination, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegetable Deluxe

The Vegetable Deluxe burger is another option that can be enjoyed gluten-free when you skip the bun. This burger includes red pepper and pesto veggie dippers along with vegan sandwich sauce and lettuce.

It’s a hearty choice that still aligns with a gluten-free diet.

Veggie Dippers

The Veggie Dippers are not only vegan but also gluten-free. Made from yellow split peas, tomato, and sundried tomato pesto among other ingredients, these dippers are crispy and satisfying.

They can be ordered in 2 or 4-piece options and are prepared in non-hydrogenated vegetable oil to ensure they remain gluten-free.

Sides

McDonald’s fries are also gluten-free as they are cooked in dedicated fryers using non-hydrogenated vegetable oil.

Drinks

All soft drinks at McDonald’s are vegan-friendly and gluten-free, so you can enjoy a refreshing beverage without any concerns.

In summary, McDonald’s offers a variety of vegan options that can be enjoyed safely by those who need to avoid gluten. With choices like the McPlant burger (without the bun), Veggie Dippers, and various sides, there’s something for everyone.

Vegan menu gluten-free breakdown

❌ McPlant – (✅ without the bun)
❌ Vegetable Deluxe – (✅ without the bun)
✅ Veggie Dippers
❌ The Spicy Veggie One
✅ Fruit Bag
✅ French Fries
✅ Carrot Sticks
✅ Pineapple Stick

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McCafé

Here’s a review of what you can expect from the McCafé menu:

Hot Beverages

Most of the hot drinks available at McCafé are gluten-free, making them a safe choice for coeliacs. Here are the options:

• Flat White
• Latte
• Cappuccino
• White Coffee
• Americano
• Espresso
• Toffee Latte
• Hot Chocolate
• Tea

These beverages are typically free from gluten ingredients, but it’s always wise to double-check with staff about any specific flavourings or syrups that might contain gluten.

Iced Beverages

The iced drinks at McCafé also offer gluten-free choices, including:

• Iced Latte
• Frozen Coca-Cola Classic

However, as of recent updates, some iced beverages like the Frozen Strawberry Lemonade and the Caramel Iced Frappé may carry a “may contain” warning for gluten due to shared equipment. It’s advisable to inquire about these items before ordering.

Smoothies

Smoothies such as the Mango Pineapple Smoothie and the Strawberry Banana Smoothie are generally gluten-free, but again, check for any cross-contamination risks as they may contain gluten.

Desserts

While many desserts at McDonald’s may contain gluten, some options are safe for coeliacs:

• McFlurry with M&M’s Candies: This classic dessert does not contain gluten ingredients.
• Hot Fudge Sundae: A delicious treat that is also gluten-free.
• Hot Caramel Sundae: Another dessert option without gluten.

In summary, McDonald’s offers a variety of gluten-free beverages and desserts on their McCafé menu, which is nice to see after reading Burger King’s hot drink menu!

McCafé menu gluten-free breakdown

✅ Tea
✅ Flat White
⚠️ Frozen Strawberry Lemonade – may contain gluten
⚠️ Caramel Iced Frappe – may contain gluten
⚠️ Mango & Pineapple Smoothie – may contain gluten
✅ Toasted Marshmallow Latte (limited time only)
✅ Hot Chocolate
✅ Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate (limited time only)
✅ Americano
✅ Iced Latte
✅ Toffee Latte
✅ Latte
✅ Cappuccino
✅ White Coffee
✅ Espresso

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Milkshakes & Cold Drinks

When it comes to enjoying a refreshing drink at McDonald’s, coeliacs can find several gluten-free options on the Milkshakes & Cold Drinks menu.

Here’s a detailed look at what you can safely indulge in:

Milkshakes

All of McDonald’s milkshakes are gluten-free, which is great news!

✅ Banana Milkshake
✅ Chocolate Milkshake
✅ Strawberry Milkshake
✅ Vanilla Milkshake

Cold Drinks

In addition to milkshakes, McDonald’s offers a variety of cold drinks that are also gluten-free:

✅ Coca-Cola Classic
✅ Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
✅ Diet Coke
✅ Sprite Zero
✅ Fanta Orange
✅ Fanta Orange Zero
✅ Oasis
✅ Oasis Zero Summer Fruits
✅ Tropicana Orange Juice
✅ Robinsons Fruit Shoot
✅ Strawberry Flavour Milk
✅ Banana Flavour Milk
✅ Chocolate Flavour Milk

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Condiments & Sauces

When dining at McDonald’s, it’s essential to know which condiments and sauces are safe for coeliacs.

Fortunately, there are several gluten-free options available that can enhance your meal without compromising your dietary needs. Here’s what you can enjoy:

Gluten-Free Condiments

✅ Tomato Ketchup
✅ Garlic Mayo Dip
✅ BBQ Dip
✅ Sweet Curry Dip
✅ Sweet & Smokey BBQ Dip
✅ Sour Cream & Chive Dip
✅ Sweet Chilli Dip
✅ Rich Tomato Dip
✅ Balsamic Dressing
✅ Lurpak Spreadable (butter)
✅ Strawberry Jam
✅ Pancake Syrup
✅ Golden Syrup

Condiments to Avoid

❌ Sweet & Sour Dip (contains wheat and barley)

In summary, McDonald’s offers a variety of gluten-free condiments and sauces that can complement your meal without worry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions that I found while researching gluten-free McDonalds menu options:

Is McDonald’s gluten free?

McDonald’s UK doesn’t offer a dedicated gluten‑free menu, and although items like French fries, hash browns, certain fruit bags and salads contain no gluten ingredients by recipe, they’re all prepped with shared equipment. As such, you should be extra cautious with cross-contamination.

Are McDonald’s chicken nuggets gluten free?

Nope! The famous Chicken McNuggets are coated in a wheat‑based batter and, as a result, they contain gluten by recipe. They’re also fried alongside other wheat‑containing items in shared fryers, with shared fryer oil, so they’re definitely not safe for coeliacs or anyone with severe gluten allergies.

How can I order a gluten-free burger at McDonald’s?

You can order a regular burger and ask for no bun. This is gluten-free as the ingredients of the burgers are coeliac-friendly.

Are McDonald’s fries safe for coeliacs?

Yes, McDonald’s fries are gluten-free as they use dedicated fryers.

Can I get a gluten-free milkshake at McDonald’s?

Yes, all of the milkshakes at McDonald’s are gluten free.

Where is the McDonald’s allergen menu?

You can view the official McDonalds allergen guide here.

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To Sum Up

If you’ve found yourself at a service station with an empty stomach and the iconic golden arches of McDonald’s are calling your name, you’ll be pleased to know that there are gluten-free options available on the menu.

While you won’t find a dedicated McDonald’s gluten free menu, many items could still be enjoyed safely by coeliacs, or if you have severe gluten allergies, if you order correctly.

For instance, you can opt for burgers like the Big Mac or Quarter Pounder without the bun, as well as breakfast items such as the Sausage and Egg McMuffin served without the muffin.

Additionally, sides like French fries and hash browns are gluten-free, making them perfect accompaniments to your meal.

However, it’s essential to remain cautious about cross-contamination. While many items are free from gluten ingredients, they are prepared in kitchens that handle gluten-containing foods.

This means that even though fries and hash browns do not contain gluten themselves, they may be cooked in the same oil as other products, which could lead to cross-contact.

In summary, McDonald’s provides a variety of gluten-free options across different categories, including burgers (without buns), breakfast items (without bread), sides, and drinks.

Stay safe and gluten-aware, my fabulous coeliac friends! 💖🥗

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