Welcome to Miss GF Manners, where I help you handle awkward gluten-free moments with grace and boundaries.
Email me your etiquette questions (jenny@goodforyouglutenfree.com), and I’ll answer them thoughtfully — and with the nuance and sensitivity our community deserves.
Here’s this week’s question:
Dear Miss GF Manners,
I follow a strict gluten-free diet for health reasons. Is it rude to bring my own gluten-free food when I’m invited to someone’s home for a meal? What about events and social gatherings? Asking for… me.
Sincerely,
Always Prepared
Dear Always Prepared,
It is never rude to bring your own gluten-free food. It’s how you stay safe, and at the end of the day, the responsibility to protect your health falls on you.
That said, I do have a few words of wisdom.
When you can, communicate with your host, especially if it’s friends or family. They may already be planning to make something for you or might be willing to adjust the menu or bring in something safe. A simple conversation ahead of time about what they’re serving can go a long way. It shows respect for their effort while still allowing you to advocate for yourself.
If it’s a work event or something you paid to attend, you have every right to ask about accommodations. In most cases, a meal is included in the cost, and event organizers often have a way to provide a gluten-free option if you ask in advance.
For weddings and special events, it really comes down to what you feel comfortable with. In many cases, it’s worth asking ahead of time since they are paying for your meal, and advocating for yourself is important. But if you don’t feel comfortable doing that or aren’t sure who to ask, bringing your own food is completely acceptable, just in case.
The bottom line is this: be thoughtful and communicative when it makes sense, but never feel bad for doing what you need to do to stay safe.
Oh, and if you do bring your own food, be subtle. You don’t want to make a scene or make someone feel bad for not thinking about your dietary needs in advance, especially if you didn’t communicate your needs ahead of time.
With Care,
Miss Gluten Free Manners
Got a question for Miss GF Manners? Email jenny at jenny@goodforyouglutenfree.com
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