If you are Coeliac or you travel with someone who is, you know planning a trip gluten-free It's not always straightforward. But there's good news: more and more destinations are aware and coeliac disease is better understood in many countries, making it possible to enjoy food without worry.
With spring well underway and summer just around the corner, it's a great time to start planning your gluten-free getaways.
Italy: the land of pasta... and of gluten-free options
It may seem paradoxical, but the country of pasta and pizza is one of the safest destinations for coeliacs. Italy has worked hard to normalise coeliac disease and offers a wide range of gluten-free options.
What makes Italy such a safe destination?
- High social awareness
- Specific training in restoration
- Associazione Italiana Celiachia (AIC) Certification: strict protocols and certified restaurants are in place to guarantee safety.
- Wide range of options: from pizza and pasta to desserts.
Finland and Sweden: coeliac disease integrated into everyday life
The Nordic countries are a model of integration. In Finland and Sweden, more than 3% of the population has coeliac disease, which has meant that it has become completely normalised.
Why are they so safe?
- Public awareness campaigns and ongoing education about coeliac disease.
- Systematic testing carried out by the public health service, enabling early diagnosis.
- Supermarkets and restaurants prepared, with dedicated sections and menus that clearly indicate allergens.
Japan: a challenging but entirely possible undertaking with planning
Japan is a stunning destination, but being coeliac here requires planning. Although rice is the staple diet and the Japanese are very attentive and respectful of allergies, they are not familiar with gluten, so it needs to be explained clearly to avoid the risk of cross-contamination.
Please be aware that soy sauce (shoyu) contains wheat and is present in almost everything. Avoid ramen or udon noodles, tempura, and panko (breadcrumbs) as they normally contain gluten.
Australia: strict regulation and peace of mind
Australia is one of the countries with the strictest regulations on gluten-free labelling, which makes it easier to identify safe products.
Advantages:
- Supermarkets have extensive sections of certified gluten-free products.
- Legislation mandates that labelled products strictly comply with standards, thereby avoiding unpleasant surprises.
- Large restaurants and chains often have adapted and clear menus.
With a little planning, your trip can be a gastronomic experience that is as rich as it is safe. There's no need to give up on trying the local cuisine or enjoying the most typical desserts of each country.
And if you want to eat in Valencia while planning your holidays, at Miracle we always have a table ready for you and yours.
