Can Pizza Hut do gluten free?

Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people choosing to avoid gluten for medical reasons or simply as a lifestyle choice. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, adhering to a strict gluten-free diet is essential. But for many, dining out at restaurants like Pizza Hut that serve gluten-containing items can present challenges.

So an important question for gluten-free consumers is: Can Pizza Hut accommodate gluten-free diets? Here is a comprehensive look at what gluten-free options are available at Pizza Hut.

Does Pizza Hut have gluten-free crust?

Yes, Pizza Hut does offer gluten-free crust as an option for their pizzas. In 2012, Pizza Hut introduced a gluten-free pizza crust in select locations. The gluten-free crust was launched nationwide in the United States in 2014. So at participating Pizza Hut locations across the US, customers can opt for a Udi’s gluten-free crust when ordering their pizza.

Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust is 10 inches and prepared in store daily. It contains no gluten ingredients. However, Pizza Hut kitchens are not entirely gluten-free environments, so there is a chance of cross-contamination. The company advises those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity to exercise caution.

What gluten-free crust brands does Pizza Hut use?

Pizza Hut uses Udi’s gluten-free pizza crusts. Udi’s is a popular brand that specializes in gluten-free baked goods, including pizza crusts, breads, bagels, and more. Pizza Hut chose Udi’s crusts for their pizza because the crusts are tasty while still being gluten-free and meeting strict quality standards.

Pizza Hut worked closely with Udi’s to develop a custom gluten-free pizza crust that would meet their flavor and texture standards and hold up to Pizza Hut ingredients and cooking methods. The Udi’s crusts are pre-made and then shipped to Pizza Hut locations to use on their gluten-free pizzas.

What other gluten-free options does Pizza Hut offer?

In addition to their gluten-free pizza crust, Pizza Hut also offers some other gluten-free menu options:

  • Gluten-free pasta – Pizza Hut locations with pasta on the menu offer a gluten-free penne pasta option made with corn and rice
  • Salads – Pizza Hut salads are gluten-free without croutons
  • Dressings and dipping sauces – Many Pizza Hut dressings and marinara sauces are gluten-free, but some contain gluten so check labels

However, many popular Pizza Hut menu items like breadsticks, desserts, and gluten-containing sauces/toppings would not be gluten-free. Those with celiac disease or sensitivity should be cautious and inquire about ingredients.

Are there any additional fees for gluten-free crusts?

Yes, most Pizza Hut locations charge an additional fee to substitute the gluten-free pizza crust. The extra cost is typically $2-3 more than their standard pizza crusts. This fee covers the higher cost of procuring gluten-free crusts. So those wanting gluten-free crusts should be prepared for a small upcharge.

How do you order a gluten-free pizza from Pizza Hut?

Ordering a gluten-free pizza from Pizza Hut is easy. Just follow these steps:

  1. Call or visit your local Pizza Hut and ask if they offer the gluten-free pizza crust option. Not all locations carry it.
  2. When placing your order, specify that you need a gluten-free crust.
  3. Clearly tell the staff that the order requires a gluten-free crust and that you have a gluten allergy so proper precautions can be taken.
  4. Confirm that the staff knows to prepare your pizza using a new pan and utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
  5. You can build your gluten-free pizza however you want with toppings and sauces (that are gluten-free).
  6. When you pick up your pizza, double check that they have marked the box as “gluten-free” so you know you received the correct order.

With proper precautions, Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust allows those avoiding gluten to still enjoy delicious pizza. Just make sure to clearly communicate your needs to the staff.

What precautions does Pizza Hut take against cross-contamination?

According to Pizza Hut, they take the following precautions to reduce the risk of gluten cross-contamination when preparing gluten-free orders:

  • Use new pans and utensils to make gluten-free pizzas
  • Prepare gluten-free pizzas in a designated gluten-free zone of the kitchen
  • Add gluten-free toppings before other toppings
  • Cut gluten-free pizzas with a separate pizza cutter
  • Package gluten-free orders in closed boxes with gluten-free stickers

However, their kitchens are not completely gluten-free environments, so those highly sensitive should use caution. Pizza Hut does not recommend their gluten-free crust for those with celiac disease.

What do experts say about Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust?

Many gluten-free experts and consumer reviews praise Pizza Hut’s Udi’s gluten-free crust as a tasty option that can allow those avoiding gluten to still enjoy pizza. The crust gets high marks for its flavor and texture that resembles regular pizza crust.

However, because Pizza Hut kitchens are not completely gluten-free, there is an increased risk of cross-contamination. Some experts advise those with celiac disease or who are highly sensitive refrain from eating it. But for those simply choosing to eat gluten-free, experts say Pizza Hut’s gluten-free pizza is a good option to satisfy a pizza craving.

Is Pizza Hut gluten-free pizza safe for celiacs?

According to Pizza Hut, their gluten-free pizza is not recommended for those with celiac disease. Since wheat flour is heavily used in their kitchens, there is an increased risk of gluten exposure through cross-contamination. Even with precautions in place, trace amounts of gluten could get into gluten-free orders.

Some celiacs report eating Pizza Hut’s gluten-free pizza without issues. But the risks may be too high for many with celiac, especially those highly sensitive. There have been some consumer reports of getting sick from their gluten-free pizza. Overall, healthcare providers advise those with celiac disease to use extreme caution or avoid it altogether.

Is Pizza Hut gluten-free pizza healthy?

While Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust allows those avoiding gluten to eat pizza, it may not necessarily be the healthiest option. The gluten-free pizza crust from Udi’s is relatively high in saturated fat, calories, and sodium compared to other gluten-free crust brands.

And gluten-free or not, pizza often lacks nutrients and contains high amounts of calories, fat, and sodium. Toppings like processed meats can make pizzas less healthy overall.

Occasionally enjoying Pizza Hut’s gluten-free pizza can be OK for most healthy diets. But making it a regular meal option is not recommended for optimal nutrition and health.

Does Pizza Hut have vegan and dairy-free options?

In addition to gluten-free crust, Pizza Hut also offers some vegan and dairy-free options for those with multiple dietary needs. While their specialty pizzas contain cheese and meat, you can request a pizza with just tomato sauce and veggie toppings on a gluten-free crust for a vegan and dairy-free option.

Some of Pizza Hut’s veggie toppings like onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms are vegan. And many of their sauces and dressings are dairy-free. Just be sure to check labels since some contain cheese, milk, or egg ingredients.

What gluten-free pizza alternatives are there?

Beyond Pizza Hut, there are many other options for enjoying safe gluten-free pizza:

  • Local pizzerias – Many independently owned pizzerias offer gluten-free pizzas and take steps to avoid cross-contamination. Check pizzerias in your area.
  • Gluten-free pizza chains – Chains like Blaze Pizza, Pieology, and MOD Pizza offer gluten-free crusts and topping options across all locations.
  • Grocery store take-and-bake pizzas – Brands like Amy’s, Against the Grain, and Calise & Son’s sell gluten-free frozen and refrigerated pizzas at many grocery stores.
  • Gluten-free pizza delivery – National delivery brands like Domino’s, Papa John’s, and Little Caesars also offer gluten-free pizza delivery.
  • Make your own – Pre-made gluten-free crusts and dough let you custom-make safe gluten-free pizzas at home.

Trying different brands can help you find your favorite gluten-free pizza for a Friday night treat!

Is the gluten-free crust at Pizza Hut thinner?

Pizza Hut’s gluten-free Udi’s pizza crust is noticeably thinner than their standard pizza crusts. Most customer reviews mention the thinness of the crust compared to a more substantial, bready texture of regular pizza crust.

A crispier, thinner crust is common with many gluten-free pizza crusts. The use of primarily rice and tapioca flours in gluten-free crusts gives them a lighter texture. Without the chew and structure that gluten provides, most end up thinner.

The positive is that the thin gluten-free crust gets crispy in the oven. But some customers feel it is too thin and can get soggy under heavy toppings. Overall, the consensus is Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust is tastier when kept simple without overloaded toppings.

Does Pizza Hut have dairy-free cheese options?

Unfortunately, Pizza Hut locations do not currently offer any dairy-free cheese substitutes as an alternative to their regular mozzarella cheese. All of their standard pizzas contain regular dairy cheese made from cow’s milk.

Some Pizza Hut locations may be willing to leave the cheese off a pizza entirely for a dairy-free option. But they do not have any cheese substitutes like dairy-free Daiya cheese available.

Those wishing to enjoy Pizza Hut pizza with non-dairy cheese will need to request a pizza without any cheese and add their own dairy-free cheese at home before baking.

Can you order just a gluten-free pizza crust?

For the most part, Pizza Hut locations do not allow ordering only a plain gluten-free pizza crust without toppings or cheese. Their gluten-free pizzas all come with at least tomato sauce and must meet a minimum order size.

This prevents waste since the gluten-free crusts are perishable and Pizza Hut needs to ensure they use each crust ordered in a timely manner. Unused crusts at the end of the day have to be discarded.

In some cases, a location may allow special ordering just a cheese gluten-free crust pizza. But the availability can vary, so it’s best to call your local store and check if they might accommodate such an order.

Is Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust fried?

No, Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust is not fried. The Udi’s gluten-free pizza crusts are pre-made and delivered to Pizza Hut stores frozen. To prepare them, employees thaw the crusts and then bake them in the pizza oven alongside regular pizzas.

The baking process gives the crust a light crispiness on the outside. But it does not go through any frying. The gluten-free crust gets baked directly on the oven surface the same way as their classic Hand-Tossed crust.

Can you request gluten-free at Pizza Hut if highly sensitive?

Those with celiac disease or who are highly sensitive to trace gluten are advised to avoid eating Pizza Hut’s gluten-free pizzas due to the risk of cross-contamination. Their kitchens contain high amounts of airborne gluten, and processes may not eliminate contamination fully.

However, some locations may be willing to take extra precautions for customers who explain they have celiac or are highly gluten sensitive. Steps like using all fresh ingredients, extensive sanitizing, and preparing the pizza away from other gluten-containing pizzas may be possible.

It depends on the specific location and staff. Those who are highly sensitive can call ahead, explain their severity of their condition, and see if they’re willing to go the extra mile to accommodate them.

Conclusion

For those avoiding gluten, Pizza Hut can be a tempting option to enjoy pizza again. Their partnership with Udi’s has made safe gluten-free crusts available in restaurants across the country. While tasty, their level of gluten-free may not be suitable for all.

Individuals should weigh the potential risk of cross-contamination against their own sensitivity levels. And don’t forget the nutrition – going gluten-free doesn’t automatically make pizza a healthy option! But overall, Pizza Hut’s gluten-free crust has opened up more possibilities for gluten-free diners.

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