Thanksgiving with Celiac: What People Don’t Realize

Olivia Merva ’29
EE Staff Writer

For many families, Thanksgiving is a day centered around food, tradition, and gathering at the same crowded table. But for people with celiac disease, the holiday comes with a challenge most others never have to think about, staying safe while surrounded by dishes that can easily make them sick. Although many assume celiac is a gluten-free preference, it’s actually a serious autoimmune disorder where even a crumb of gluten can trigger days of pain, fatigue, or other symptoms. Thanksgiving, a holiday built around shared plates, can be stressful. 

What most people don’t realize is how many Thanksgiving staples contain hidden gluten. Stuffing is an obvious one, but the risk goes beyond that. A turkey roasted with traditional bread stuffing can contaminate the meat, even if a person with celiac avoids the stuffing itself. Many canned broths, spice mixes, and gravy contain gluten. Even pie fillings or vegetable casseroles can include wheat-based thickeners. Cross contamination like using the same spoon for multiple dishes or placing gluten-free items next to gluten ones can make a supposedly “safe” plate dangerous. 

A challenge many people overlook is how easily gluten can spread in a busy holiday kitchen. When multiple dishes are being prepared at once, crumbs or flour can get onto counters, cutting boards, or utensils. A serving spoon used in a regular dish and then placed in a gluten-free one can contaminate the entire plate. Even toasters, baking sheets, and shared containers can introduce gluten without anyone realizing it. These small details matter because even tiny amounts of gluten can be unsafe for someone with celiac. 

Even with these challenges, some families try to make the holiday easier by adjusting their traditions. In my family, a few accommodations help keep things safer. It’s just as simple as keeping a dedicated space in the kitchen to ensure no cross contamination. Another strategy is bringing our own side dishes and desserts. These small changes don’t alter the holiday, but they make a huge difference in reducing stress and helping everyone enjoy the meal together.

Thanksgiving is meant to be a time of togetherness, and including people with celiac disease doesn’t require changing the heart of the celebration, just paying attention to a few small details. With simple steps like checking ingredient labels, using separate utensils, and keeping certain dishes gluten free from start to finish, families can make the holiday safe without sacrificing tradition. These small actions not only prevent accidental gluten exposure but also show that everyone at the table matters. When people understand how easy it is to adapt, the holiday becomes more welcoming for everyone, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the meal comfortably