Flight date: December, 2024
Not long after I learned I had Celiac and went strictly Gluten Free, I set off an a previously planned around the world trip. Obviously, that was a lot to take on still learning the ropes but while GF life has changed my travels, I was and remain determined not to let it stop them. This post shares my experience flying Gluten Free from London (LHR) to New York (EWR) with United Airlines.
Because long haul economy is not fun but collecting airline points is, I was able to take these flights in Business Class so things may differ if you’re looking at an economy trip but generally what I have seen front or back, gluten free food is pretty similar, even if on fancier plates.
Quick note: As a Celiac, gluten free isn’t a choice — it’s a requirement I’d love to not have. My immediate symptoms are thankfully relatively minor, but obviously I aim to avoid any & all gluten and cross-contamination. This post is simply my personal experience: your gluten free requirements & risks may differ from mine. Always follow your doctor’s advice and always confirm before eating!
On the Flight
My overall rating: 9/10
At nearly 10 hours travel time, I’m really glad United got my meal right as backpacking granola did not seem like it would have been enough. While fairly bland (the GF meals are always bland, even in fancy seats), the meals were quite well done and things like fruit and gluten free bread really helped step up the meals.
How safe did it seem: 9/10
With the exception of the mixed nuts that had no info (so skipped), everything the crew brought out to me was clearly gluten free and unlike some other flights I’ve taken, they left wrappers on any specific GF items which was a wonderful help in knowing everything was indeed good. They did have a few certified self service snacks as well so didn’t need to augment with my own supplies (I get snacky on flights).
How did it taste (by GF flying & business class standards): 8/10
In my pre-Celiac diagnosis days, United’s food was solid though not amazing and that holds just as true now. The dishes weren’t the best GF airline food I’ve had but I really appreciated getting breakfast at breakfast time and not chicken at 9am, breads, and even a little dessert making it one of my better GF meals overall.
How were the portions: Ok. Two meals on the flight was perfect though a few more snacks choices would have nice.
What was the highlight: The brownie at lunch was really solid but the fruit plate was my win of the day.
What I skipped: The pre-meal nuts. Too much of an unknown for me.
What it lacked: A second serving of bread would have been wonderful.
How do you book a United Gluten Free Meal: United lets you configure meals online or via app, even on a booking through another airline. Use the Manage By Booking feature.