Italy is known for its delicious food and wine, but for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, dining in Italy can seem daunting. Asking for “gluten free” items on a menu often results in confusion, even in large cities like Rome and Florence. However, with some key Italian phrases and preparation, those avoiding gluten can fully enjoy the culinary delights of Italy. This article will provide quick answers on how to say “gluten free” in proper Italian, explain some background on gluten intolerance in Italy, and offer tips for eating gluten free comfortably throughout the country.
Quick Answers
How do you say “gluten free” in Italian?
The most common Italian phrase for gluten free is “senza glutine.” Some other variations are “privo di glutine” and “non contiene glutine.”
What is the Italian word for gluten?
The Italian word for gluten is “glutine.”
Are there celiac disease associations in Italy to help with gluten free needs?
Yes, the main celiac disease association in Italy is AIC – Associazione Italiana Celiachia. They have local chapters throughout Italy to provide support and resources.
Background on Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease in Italy
Gluten intolerance and celiac disease are growing concerns in Italy, as rates of diagnosis increase. Celiac disease impacts about 1% of the Italian population, similar to rates in other European countries.[1] However, awareness and understanding of gluten intolerance used to be relatively low in Italy compared to other Western nations. The word “celiac” was not added to an Italian dictionary until 1996.[2] Furthermore, testing for celiac disease was not common practice for Italian doctors until the 1990s and early 2000s.[3]
Since the 2000s, recognition and diagnosis of celiac disease has expanded in Italy. In the mid-2000s, the United Nations declared an International Day of Awareness for Celiac Disease, which improved education globally, including in Italy.[4] Italian research centers and universites have also increased focus on celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivities. The University of Milan now houses the Center for Prevention and Diagnosis of Celiac Disease, conducting research and raising awareness.[5]
Several celiac advocacy associations emerged in Italy in the 1970s-1990s. The largest one, AIC, was founded in 1979 and now has over 60,000 members across 21 regions.[6] AIC runs conferences for doctors and families managing celiac disease, works to ensure access to gluten free products, and publishes lists of gluten free certified products and restaurants.
So while gluten intolerance awareness in Italy used to lag behind other countries, education and understanding have expanded greatly in the last couple decades. Diagnosis rates continue to rise, meaning more Italians require gluten free options while eating out and buying groceries.
Key Phrases for Eating Gluten Free in Italy
Here are some important Italian phrases to know when communicating about gluten free dietary needs:
- “Senza glutine, per favore” – “Gluten free, please.” Use this phrase when ordering food to request it be gluten free.
- “Questo piatto è senza glutine?” – “Is this dish gluten free?” Ask restaurant staff if a menu item is gluten free before ordering.
- “Ho una intolleranza al glutine” – “I have a gluten intolerance.” Explain your needs if a restaurant seems unsure about gluten free options.
- “Non posso mangiare glutine” – “I cannot eat gluten.” A straightforward way to communicate your restriction.
- “Dove posso trovare prodotti senza glutine?” – “Where can I find gluten free products?” Inquire at grocery stores or pharmacies if you need help locating gluten free items.
It can be handy to have these phrases written down or saved on your phone. Feel free to show staff the written Italian if they seem uncertain about your verbal request. Carrying a gluten “allergy” card is also recommended for quick communication in restaurants.
Tips for Eating Gluten Free in Italy
Here are some tips to make sticking to a gluten free diet in Italy more manageable:
Seek Out Celiac Associations
Connect with one of AIC’s regional chapters before your trip to get localized advice. They can provide lists of gluten free restaurants, food shops, and accommodation options. If you run into trouble finding gluten free food during your travels, reach out for assistance.
Grocery Shop for Gluten Free Products
Browse grocery stores and pharmacies for gluten free pasta, snacks, and other staple foods you can keep on hand. Look for items certified as “Senza Glutine” or bearing the Spiga Barrata symbol below:
Some potential grocery items include:
- Gluten free pasta
- Rice, corn, potato and legume-based crackers
- Gluten free bread products
- Fresh meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, rice and legumes
Research Restaurant Options in Advance
Seek out restaurants that advertise gluten free menus online or have positive reviews mentioning gluten free accommodations. Make reservations and explain your dietary needs over the phone or in person when you arrive. Major cities like Rome, Milan and Florence have the most plentiful gluten free dining choices.
Focus on Naturally Gluten Free Dishes
Choose meat, fish, salad, or vegetable-based dishes cooked simply without breading or wheat-containing sauces. Risotto, polenta and homemade gelato are other safe bets. Request plain rice instead of pasta as a substitution.
Avoid Fried Foods
Sadly, fried items are risky for gluten cross-contamination. Stick to grilled, baked or steamed preparations when possible. Also skip beer, soy sauce and crispy fried snacks.
Explain Seriousness of Allergy
If waitstaff seem unclear on what gluten free entails, emphasize that you have a medical dietary restriction versus a preference. Explain that even a small amount of gluten can make you ill. This conveys the importance of careful preparation to avoid cross-contamination.
Learn Some Safe Restaurant Food Terms
Memorize Italian words for foods naturally gluten free. Terms like “pesce” (fish), “riso” (rice), “uova” (eggs), “verdure” (vegetables), “frutta” (fruit), “insalata” (salad), and “oli e aceto” (oil and vinegar) will help you navigate menus confidently.
Enjoy Gelato and Trattorias
Italy has fresh gelato shops on nearly every corner, with fruit flavors and some chocolate varieties safely gluten free. For meals, trattorias (casual Italian eateries) often accommodate dietary needs better than quick pizza joints.
Traveling Gluten Free in Different Italian Regions
Each region of Italy offers unique culinary traditions, some naturally gluten free friendly. Here’s a quick glance at traveling gluten free through key Italian destinations:
Rome and Lazio
As a major metropolis, Rome has the most plentiful gluten free dining options. Look for AIC-certified restaurants like Il Margutta Vegetarian Food & Art or Giuditta pizza al taglio. When sightseeing, snack on fresh produce from Roman streets markets or grab gluten free gelato.
Tuscany
Tuscany’s reliance on beans, vegetables, meats and olive oil make it adaptable for gluten free visitors. Steak from Chianina cattle and white beans stews are safe choices. Pair dishes with gluten free beer options like Africa dolce and Estrella Damm Daura.
Milan and Lombardy
Milan offers Michelin-starred fine dining with gluten free options at Sadler and Cracco. For local flavor, order risotto alla Milanese or pan-fried cotoletta. Duomo, Milan’s grand Gothic cathedral, features a rooftop balcony with views across gluten free friendly roof tiles.
Venice
Seafood reigns supreme in Venice. Go for grilled fish and order a spritz made with gluten free bitters. Tuck into plates of risotto Nero di seppia (black risotto) for carb cravings. Gluten free pizza is also ubiquitous.
Bologna and Emilia-Romagna
Hearty Bolognese sauces piled atop steaks and polenta provide fuel for exploring this region. Hit up Tamburini for artisanal salumi and gluten free sandwiches. Don’t miss regional gelato flavors like ricotta and mascarpone.
Campania and the Amalfi Coast
The birthplace of pizza makes eating gluten free a bit trickier. Opt for enormous lemons, sizzling seafood, and mozzarella di bufala that will make you forget all about pizza. Anchovies, tomatoes and olive oil dress simple dishes free of gluten.
Sicily
Sicily combines Italian cuisine with North African and Middle Eastern influences. Eggplant, chickpea flour, lentils and couscous provide gluten free options. Look for seafood pasta alternatives featuring sardines, swordfish or shrimp. Just steer clear of fried arancini rice balls.
Being Prepared Sets You Up for Success
With proper preparation and helpful Italian phrases, those avoiding gluten can indulge in Italy’s culinary highlights. Seek out grocery stores to stock your own gluten free snacks, do research on celiac-friendly restaurants, and explain your dietary needs clearly. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying heaping plates of pasta-free antipasti and gelato just like locals. Buon appetito!
References
[1] Guandalini, S., & Assiri, A. (2014). Celiac disease: a review. JAMA pediatrics, 168(3), 272–278. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2013.3858
[2] Sapone, A., Bai, J. C., Ciacci, C., Dolinsek, J., Green, P. H., Hadjivassiliou, M., Kaukinen, K., Rostami, K., Sanders, D. S., Schumann, M., Ullrich, R., Villalta, D., Volta, U., Catassi, C., & Fasano, A. (2012). Spectrum of gluten-related disorders: consensus on new nomenclature and classification. BMC medicine, 10, 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1741-7015-10-13
[3] Bold, J. L., & Rostami, K. (2011). Gluten-free diet indications, safety, quality, labels, and challenges. Nutrients, 3(7), 847–868. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu3070847
[4] Catassi, C., Fabiani, E., & Corrao, G. et al (2002) Risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in celiac disease. JAMA 287:1413–1419
[5] https://www.unimi.it/en/node/872/
[6] https://www.celiachia.it/en/home/AIC.aspx
