=You are at the buffet and notice that someone has accidentally used the designated gluten-free spoon to scoop a gluten-containing food. They then return the spoon to the gluten-free dish, causing cross-contact. What do you do?

“It’s best to be proactive and address this situation before hand. If you are eating at someone’s home, ask them ahead of time to set aside some of each gluten-free dish so that you don’t have to take a risk by eating buffet-style. If you are eating at a restaurant, arrive early and see if you can be the first one to go through the buffet. If not, ask them to serve you from the back to avoid risk. You shouldn’t have to keep watch over the gluten-free dish and you never know what may have happened when you weren’t looking.”

– Jennifer North, Beyond Celiac Vice President

“If you are in a restaurant: Hail the server and request that they remove the dish from the buffet line. Contact the manager and explain the situation. Request that they replace it with a new bowl, fresh product, and utensils.

If you are a guest in a home: If you are the only guest that needs to have a gluten-free meal, side step the option, and either eat something else that’s safe or discreetly ask the host if there’s more of the dish in the kitchen. If you are not sure if others’ health may be in jeopardy, speak to the host about the situation to have it remove and replaced.”

– Beckee Moreland, Beyond Celiac Director of GREAT Kitchens