Why Applebee's Gluten-Free Menu Options Are Misleading - Tasting Table
Briefly

Applebee's has long marketed itself as a neighborhood grill known for its affordable menu, but concerns have arisen over its 'gluten sensitive' label. The chain admits it uses shared cooking and prep spaces, which raises the risk of cross-contamination with gluten. While items may be marked as gluten-sensitive, customers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance still face health risks due to potential traces of gluten. Online communities report instances of reactions, highlighting the inadequacy of the labeling system for those with severe dietary restrictions.
According to Applebee's website, the chain restaurants use "shared cooking and prep areas, including common fryer oil," so even though certain foods are tagged with the tiny, black and white "GS" label, there is no guarantee that it's entirely gluten-free. For people with serious gluten intolerances or celiac disease, even small traces of gluten can lead to serious health issues or medical emergencies.
Customers at Applebee's may think they're safe ordering the Neighborhood Nachos as an appetizer, since Applebee's claims it's part of the "gluten sensitive" category, but in reality, those nachos may have been fried in the same oil as the Crunchy Onion Rings.
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