My research on gluten free airline food can be summarized in three words: "pack your own". Airline food is unsatisfactory under the best of circumstances, and relying on the airlines for your celiac friendly food is unwise. In rare cases, the airline office may promise gluten free meals, but often there is no suitable food on the right airplane at the right time.

When I fly, I pack several food bars in my carry-on luggage. All my food bars are the same. That way I can eat when I am genuinely hungry but will be less likely to overeat simply because I am bored. I avoid pretzels and other salty items. The airline will keep me hydrated, but I do need to be careful.

Click on www.gopicnic.com which provides a wide variety of pre-packaged picnic style meals that do not require refrigeration or cooking. They are packaged in sturdy cardboard and so will "survive" being packed in your luggage. Be cautious while you are visiting this site — everything is clearly labeled but all the meals are not gluten free. Apparently, these meals are only available on-line.

Published 06/23/09