Terms & Definitions

• Cross-contact occurs when something that is otherwise gluten free comes into contact with something that has been exposed to gluten, which results in the gluten free item becoming unsafe for a person with celiac disease to consume. Cross-contact cannot be fixed by simply removing the gluten containing item or adjusting cooking methods. The food, dishes and utensils with which it was served need to be replaced.

• Cross-contamination technically refers to the transfer of harmful bacteria between people, foods and surfaces which can lead to food born illness; this can occur with 100% gluten free foods and surfaces because it is the bacteria that causes illness, not gluten. If cross-contamination occurs, steps can be taken and methods employed to prevent food born illnesses from developing: increase cooking temperature/time, not mixing raw and cooked meat, proper temperature for food storage, for example.

• Shared kitchen, a kitchen that prepares/serves both gluten containing and gluten free food.

Anne Barbo Moon

Disclaimer:

While we have ten+ years’ experience of navigating the world as the parents of a child with celiac, we are not physicians, dietitians, or other licensed medical professionals. The material and content contained in the Services is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for consultation, diagnosis or medical treatment by a licensed medical professional. Please consult your doctor for any medical or health-related questions. The information contained in the Services should NOT be used to disregard medical or health-related advice from a physician or licensed medical professional.