No, Salt of the Earth is not a dedicated gluten-free facility and may not be safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Therefore, it cannot be definitively stated that Salt of the Earth's products are entirely gluten-free.
This is crucial information for people who must avoid gluten due to conditions like:
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption.
- Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): A condition where gluten causes symptoms without the autoimmune response of celiac disease.
- Wheat Allergy: An allergic reaction to wheat proteins, which often contain gluten.
Because Salt of the Earth is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, there is a risk of cross-contamination. This means that even if an ingredient itself is gluten-free, it could come into contact with gluten during preparation, storage, or cooking.
Why Cross-Contamination Matters:
- Even trace amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms in individuals with celiac disease or NCGS.
- Shared equipment, surfaces, or utensils can easily transfer gluten.
- Airborne gluten particles can also pose a risk.
Recommendation:
If you have celiac disease or a severe gluten allergy, it's best to avoid Salt of the Earth unless they can guarantee that your food will be prepared in a way that prevents cross-contamination. When in doubt, always inquire directly with the establishment regarding their gluten-free procedures and practices.
