Harris Teeter, a popular grocery store chain in the southeastern United States, offers a wide selection of gluten-free products for customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Many Harris Teeter locations have designated gluten-free sections to make shopping easier for gluten-free customers.
What is gluten and gluten-free?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause negative health effects like gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, and more. The gluten-free diet, which avoids all foods containing gluten, is the only treatment for celiac disease. People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may also benefit from a gluten-free diet to alleviate symptoms.
Gluten-free products are made without any wheat, barley, or rye. Common gluten-free grains and starches include rice, corn, potatoes, tapioca, and quinoa. Reading ingredient labels is important, as gluten can hide in many unsuspected products like soy sauce.
The gluten-free trend
While only around 1% of Americans have celiac disease, the gluten-free diet has become increasingly popular. Some follow it to alleviate gluten sensitivity symptoms. Others believe it is a healthier diet overall, though there is no evidence that gluten-free foods are healthier for those without a medical need to avoid gluten.
The rising demand for gluten-free foods has led more food manufacturers and restaurants to offer gluten-free options. Grocery stores like Harris Teeter have expanded their selections to serve gluten-free customers.
Harris Teeter’s gluten-free offerings
Most Harris Teeter locations now have designated gluten-free sections with a diverse range of products:
- Gluten-free baking mixes, breads, bagels, tortillas, pasta, and baked goods
- Gluten-free snacks like chips, pretzels, granola bars, and crackers
- Gluten-free cereal, oats, and granola
- Gluten-free flours like almond, coconut, rice, and chickpea flour
- Gluten-free condiments like soy sauce and salad dressings
In addition to pre-packaged gluten-free products, Harris Teeter in-store bakeries and delis offer freshly made gluten-free items like bread, pizza crusts, cookies, and more. Harris Teeter’s selection of gluten-free products has grown considerably in recent years to meet increasing demand.
Locating the gluten-free section
The gluten-free section is typically housed in the grocery aisle, though the exact location varies by store. Many stores have it in the health foods, diet foods, or natural foods section. Others place it near specialty baking goods. Signage like “gluten-free foods” is posted to help customers locate it easily.
If a store does not have a designated gluten-free section, gluten-free items may be integrated on shelves alongside regular products. The growing selection makes it easier than ever for gluten-free shoppers to find diverse options at Harris Teeter.
Gluten-free labels
Harris Teeter clearly labels gluten-free items with a “gluten free” callout on the front of the packaging. Items are also labeled if they are produced in a facility that processes wheat, barley, rye, or oats, which is helpful information for gluten-free shoppers concerned about cross-contamination.
Additional gluten-free grocery options
In addition to the designated gluten-free section, many naturally gluten-free whole foods like produce, dairy, eggs, meat, fish, nuts, and legumes are available throughout the store. Harris Teeter’s butcher counters, delis, and seafood departments offer fresh meat, cheese, and fish options. The produce section contains many fruits, vegetables, and other produce that is naturally gluten-free.
Are all Harris Teeter locations gluten-free friendly?
The majority of Harris Teeter stores have robust gluten-free selections and designated gluten-free sections. However, offerings can vary slightly by location.
Customers can call their local Harris Teeter ahead of time to inquire if they have gluten-free offerings and a gluten-free section. The customer service desk may also be able to provide information.
Harris Teeter’s website has a store locator that shows the locations of all stores carrying gluten-free items. This is the easiest way to identify nearby stores with gluten-free sections.
Tips for shopping the gluten-free section
Here are some tips for smoothly navigating Harris Teeter’s gluten-free section:
- Read labels carefully and look for a “gluten-free” label on the front. Also check the ingredients for any sources of gluten.
- Watch out for cross-contamination. Choose products labeled “gluten-free” that were processed in a facility free of gluten sources.
- Try new products and brands! The section features many specialty gluten-free brands you won’t find elsewhere.
- Ask for help locating items. Harris Teeter employees are used to assisting gluten-free customers find what they need.
- Make a list beforehand so you know exactly what to look for.
- Stock up on gluten-free pantry essentials like pasta, baking mixes, crackers, cereal, and bread.
Harris Teeter’s gluten-free grocery options make shopping easier
Harris Teeter provides a wide array of gluten-free products to accommodate customers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Extensive gluten-free selections and designated sections in stores allow customers to conveniently identify and purchase foods that fit their dietary needs and restrictions. Harris Teeter’s selection of quality gluten-free items has expanded vastly, keeping pace with increasing customer demand. For those adhering to a strict gluten-free diet, Harris Teeter offers a one-stop shop to find diverse gluten-free grocery options.
