certified gluten free but...

[pschwab]

We have been completely gluten free in our home for the past 2.5 years since my son was diagnosed with celiac. We have been super strict about what foods he can eat, and haven't taken any "risks" with him with questionable items. I'd like some advice from the more experienced people on this site. My husband purchased some prepackaged cookies online. They are labeled gluten free, also have the certified gluten free label on the back, and all the ingredients that could have potential cross contamination (like oats) are called out as gluten free. BUT the cookies are also made in a facility that processes wheat. We have not given him anything processed in a facility that also processed gluten since his diagnosis for fear of cross contamination. We know two other families with celiac superstar kiddos who are nowhere near as strict as us and their kids seem fine (I've not been bold enough to question their blood work as I feel that would come across as judging). Are we being crazy and way too restrictive? Would it be safe to give him a product like the one I discussed above?

For reference to our specific kiddo: he was diagnosed 2.5 years ago with classic stomach issues, ttg levels came back at 301, confirmed with genetic testing. After 6 months gluten free ttg levels were 76, after 1 year gluten free ttg levels were 26. His last blood test this February came back with ttg levels of 16 (normal on our test is less than 20). All his other levels (iron, vitamin d, etc) are normal now and he exhibits no gastro issues. He is 4.5 years old now and I'd love for him to continue to be a healthy kiddo with no health issues due to the celiac.

So keep being crazy picky about his food or pull back on the reigns a bit?

[RMJ]

Could you call the company and see if they use shared equipment?  And if so, how they assure that it is clean enough before use for non-gluten free products?  With the gluten-free certification I wouldn’t be concerned about a shared facility.  I would want to know how they handle shared equipment, if any.

[pschwab]

I have called or emailed companies in the past and feel comfortable doing that. I guess I’m wondering, in general, how experienced celiacs deal with gluten free items manufactured in facilities with shared equipment? Are you saying call them all? I’m happy to stick with that if it’s the safest option. Thanks!

[dfixit]

I’ve been gluten-free for 23 years. My advice is stay away from processed foods. Eat Whole Foods only. What how much rice you ingest as I became rice intolerant. Corn and sugar products cause joint pain and preservatives increase my BP

Most juices have a preservative in them but Costco stocks Kirkland apple and grape juice fresh pressed, not from concentrate. My favorite drink is seltzer water and grape juice mixed 50/50.