For children with celiac disease or gluten intolerance – or those living a gluten-free lifestyle for other special needs – finding food options that are safe to eat but still but satisfying can be a challenge. While grocery stores are stocking more gluten-free options, some are pricey, skimp on taste and not worth the splurge. Not sure which gluten-free foods to pick up on your next shopping trip? Metro Parent asked southeast Michigan moms to share their kid-approved gluten-free favorites.
Sunbutter Creamy Sunflower Spread
“Sunbutter Creamy is my favorite nut-free gluten-free spread. The kids love it because, when in a peanut-free school, they still get to do ‘peanut’-type lunches. It tastes just like peanut butter.” – Melissa Anne, Madison Heights
Ian’s Fish Sticks
Pair these with organic baked sweet potato fries and broccoli with melted cheddar cheese, and “this dinner option provides protein, good fats (omega-3 fatty acids), beta carotene with other vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and fiber.” – Lana Coxton, dietitian/nutrition support clinician, Tri-County Celiac Support Group, Northville
Oatmega Bars
“It’s really the amount of protein and sugar (5 grams of sugar and 14 grams of protein). They taste so amazing – there is no way you would want another protein bar. The chocolate mint is like a Thin Mint Girl Scout cookie!” – Brittany Trinity Harvey, Washington Township
Dr. Praeger’s Spinach Littles
“Most have veggies incorporated in them, taste yummy and have kids’ options like Spinach Littles and Broccoli Littles, which are nuggets shaped like dinosaurs and stars. Even my oldest – who we do not keep gluten-free – loves them. Most of the products have microwave options, so it is also a convenience thing on days we need a quick meal but a healthier option. It’s almost a sneaky way to get some veggies in on pickier eaters.” – Lauren Goltz, New Baltimore
Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix
“Love the Krusteaz gluten-free pancake mix. It doesn’t even taste gluten-free. In fact, my kids like it better than regular mix.” – Rebecca Devantier Calappi, St. Clair Shores
King Arthur Flour Chocolate Cake Mix
“Taste and texture just like the real deal.” – Adrienne Meldrum, St. Clair
Snyder’s of Hanover Honey Mustard & Onion Pretzels
“My daughter loves the flavor – they definitely don’t skimp on that. The texture is not compromised being gluten-free. And they are an easy go-to snack.” – Nicole Hoover-Dyson, Chesterfield Township
Ronzoni Pasta
“Gluten-free pasta with rice as first ingredient (not corn) tastes better.” – Genevieve Hubz Polakoff, Royal Oak
liveGfree White Bread
“We like the liveGfree line that Aldi carries. We buy their snacks and white bread. Their bread is the best white bread – and so reasonably priced!” – Jessica Ross, Trenton
Kinnikinnick Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
“You will feel like you’re at the cider mill.” – Emily Bogart, Royal Oak
Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips
“Light, crispy, grain-free – and great flavor.” – Megan Ankerson, West Bloomfield
