Gluten free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people adopting a gluten free lifestyle for health or dietary reasons. For those who follow a gluten free diet, finding quick and convenient gluten free meal options can be challenging. Many popular grab-and-go foods like sandwiches typically contain gluten, making grocery stores and restaurants tricky to navigate.
Publix is a popular grocery store chain across the southeastern United States. With thousands of locations across seven states, Publix aims to meet the diverse needs of its customers by offering extensive product variety. For those on a gluten free diet, Publix provides an array of gluten free products and prepared foods. But does Publix offer pre-made gluten free sandwiches specifically? Let’s take a closer look.
Gluten Free at Publix
Across its product categories, Publix has worked to expand its selection of gluten free items due to increasing consumer demand. In the bakery section, you can find an assortment of gluten free breads, bagels, muffins, cookies, and more. The grocery aisles contain many certified gluten free packaged foods, including pastas, crackers, cereals, and baking mixes. Publix also denotes gluten free items with ‘GF’ shelf tags for easier identification.
However, when it comes to fresh prepared foods like sandwiches, the availability of gluten free options varies by location. Some Publix stores offer pre-packaged gluten free sandwiches and wraps in the refrigerator section, while others have limited or no gluten free sandwiches available.
Deli Sandwiches
The deli department is one area of Publix stores that commonly offers made-to-order sandwiches. However, the process of preparing deli sandwiches poses some challenges when it comes to preventing cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.
Publix deli meats and cheeses are gluten free, but sandwich breads contain gluten. The deli environment also involves shared surfaces, utensils, and ingredients that may come into contact with gluten. While some Publix locations indicate certain sandwiches can be made on gluten free bread, cross-contamination is still a risk.
Pre-Packaged Sandwiches
For customers seeking a safer gluten free sandwich option, some Publix stores carry pre-packaged gluten free sandwiches in the refrigerator section. Brands like Udi’s and Canyon Bakehouse offer packaged sandwiches made with certified gluten free bread and gluten free fillings.
Common gluten free sandwich varieties at Publix may include:
- Turkey, cheddar, and avocado
- Ham and Swiss
- Roast beef and cheddar
- Caprese style with mozzarella, tomato, basil
The availability of these gluten free sandwiches varies by location. Larger Publix stores and those in areas with more demand for specialty products tend to have a wider selection. Refrigerated gluten free sandwiches are typically priced around $4-6 per package.
Gluten Free Sandwich Alternatives
For customers of stores that don’t carry packaged gluten free sandwiches, there are some alternatives in the Publix deli. First, you can purchase gluten free bread or rolls from the bakery section and use it to make your own sandwich at home. Publix also sells some gluten free wrap varieties that can be filled and folded into a sandwich-like option.
You may also be able to find some suitable gluten free salads or sides that can act as a sandwich fill-in. Some options include:
- Fresh mozzarella and tomato salad
- Chicken salad
- Egg salad
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
These items are typically gluten free at Publix, but you’ll want to check labels and ingredients or ask at the deli counter about preparation practices to confirm.
Does Publix Offer Custom-Made Gluten Free Sandwiches?
Given the cross-contamination challenges of most deli environments, Publix generally does not recommend or offer the assembly of custom-made gluten free sandwiches. Some customers report being able to special order gluten free sandwiches at certain Publix locations, but this is not advertised or endorsed across all stores.
Your safest option is to purchase a certified gluten free pre-packaged sandwich or find a suitable gluten free salad or side item. If you require a custom sandwich, it may be best to prepare it yourself at home with verified gluten free ingredients.
Ordering Gluten Free Sandwiches Online
Publix offers online grocery ordering and delivery through Instacart in select areas. When ordering online, you can add item notes requesting gluten free sandwich options to be picked up or delivered. However, availability is still dependent on the individual store’s inventory.
You may be able to order a pre-packaged gluten free sandwich variety if your local store carries it. But customized sandwich requests would need to be avoided for safety. Double check with the store by phone before finalizing any online orders if gluten free is a necessity.
Catering Gluten Free Sandwiches
For larger sandwich orders, Publix provides catering services for parties, office meetings, and events. Again, the availability of gluten free sandwich options varies by location. Some catering departments offer certified gluten free sandwich platters, while others may not accommodate gluten free.
Your safest option is to work directly with your local Publix catering department to determine if they can provide for gluten free dietary needs. Be specific about your requirements so they can advise you on options, ingredients, and preparation protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
Other Gluten Free Meal Options at Publix
Beyond sandwiches, Publix has expanded its selection of ready-to-eat gluten free prepared foods in recent years. Some examples include:
- Rotisserie chicken (plain)
- Freshly prepared entrée salads with gluten free dressings
- Freshly prepared sushi varieties with gluten free ingredients
- Gluten free frozen heat-and-eat meals
- Gluten free pizza (at select Publix GreenWise locations)
Again, availability varies by location. Be sure to read labels, check ingredients, and ask questions to verify the gluten free status of any prepared foods.
Tips for Finding Gluten Free Sandwiches at Publix
Here are some tips to help you locate gluten free sandwich options at Publix grocery stores:
- Check the refrigerated section for pre-packaged gluten free sandwich brands
- Look for gluten free tags on refrigerated items or ask staff for help locating
- Visit larger Publix locations which tend to have more gluten free variety
- Check Publix’s online store inventory to see if your local store carries gluten free sandwiches
- Ask at the bakery for fresh gluten free bread to use in sandwiches made at home
- Avoid custom deli sandwiches due to cross-contamination concerns
- Double check ingredients and preparation of any salad or side items for gluten free suitability
Are Publix Gluten Free Sandwiches Healthy?
When evaluating the health profile of Publix’s gluten free sandwiches, there are a few factors to consider:
- Bread: Gluten free bread often contains rice flour, potato starch, tapioca and other highly refined flours. These increase the carbohydrate content and offer less nutrition compared to whole grains.
- Fillings: The quality of fillings can vary greatly. Some sandwiches have fresh veggies and lean meats like turkey and roast beef. Others contain more processed meats and cheeses higher in sodium and saturated fat.
- Preservatives: Pre-packaged sandwiches tend to contain preservatives to prolong freshness. Making your own allows you to limit additives.
- Sodium: Pre-packaged sandwiches and deli meats tend to be high in sodium. Opt for lower sodium fillings and condiments to help reduce salt content.
Overall, gluten free sandwiches at Publix can be healthy if you choose varieties with whole food fillings over highly processed options. Balance sandwiches with fresh fruits, vegetables, and gluten free grains for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
The availability of pre-made gluten free sandwiches at Publix supermarkets varies quite a bit across locations. Some stores offer respectable varieties of packaged gluten free sandwiches and wraps, while others have minimal or no options. Deli-made sandwiches involve high risk of cross-contamination. Your best options are to purchase certified gluten free pre-packaged sandwiches where available, make your own at home with gluten free bread, or find suitable gluten free salads and sides that can work as a sandwich alternative. With growing demand for gluten free foods, customers can expectPublix to continue expanding its selection of convenient gluten free grab-and-go options like sandwiches.
| Publix Store Location | Gluten Free Sandwiches Available |
|---|---|
| Store #001 | Yes – Udi’s and Canyon Bakehouse brands |
| Store #002 | No – No pre-packaged GF sandwiches |
| Store #003 | Limited – Canyon Bakehouse wraps only |
| Store #004 | Yes – Udi’s, Canyon Bakehouse, and Publix GreenWise brands |
| Store #005 | No – No pre-packaged GF sandwiches |
