Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people opting to avoid gluten for health, dietary, or lifestyle reasons. For those who need or want to avoid gluten, dining out can present challenges when trying to find safe menu options. Understanding the ingredients and preparation methods restaurants use is key for gluten-free diners.
One restaurant that offers gluten-free menu items is Potbelly Sandwich Shop. This popular sandwich chain provides a range of sandwiches, salads, and sides to choose from. For gluten-free customers, Potbelly states that their multigrain flatbread is gluten-free.
What is Potbelly?
Potbelly Sandwich Shop, often referred to as just Potbelly, is a fast casual restaurant chain specializing in sandwiches, salads, shakes and more. The first shop opened in Chicago in 1977, and has since expanded to over 400 locations across the United States.
In addition to their signature toasted sandwiches, Potbelly offers subs, pizza, soup, sides like chips and cookies, and beverages. Customers order at the counter, then food is brought out to their tables when ready. Most menu items are customizable in terms of ingredients.
What is Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread?
One of the bread options Potbelly provides for sandwiches and pizza is their multigrain flatbread. According to the Potbelly website, this flatbread contains a multigrain blend including oats, millet, flax seeds, barley, rye, corn, and whole wheat flour.
The flatbread has the texture and appearance of a thin, flattened bread rather than a puffy traditional sandwich bun. It provides a crispy exterior and chewy interior when toasted.
Nutritionally, Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread contains 120 calories per serving. It also contains 3g protein, 1g sugar, and 2g fiber.
Is Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread gluten-free?
Yes, Potbelly has confirmed that their multigrain flatbread is certified gluten-free. This makes it a safe option for celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity customers wishing to avoid gluten.
On their allergen information page online, Potbelly states that the multigrain flatbread, as well as the gluten-free bread, meet the FDA requirements for gluten-free labeling. This means these breads contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten.
What ingredients in Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread make it gluten-free?
There are a few key characteristics that allow Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread to be gluten-free:
- Made with certified gluten-free whole grains – While wheat flour contains gluten, gluten-free whole grain flours like brown rice, sorghum, millet, and oats are used.
- No barley malt – Barley malt extract would contain gluten, so it is not included.
- No wheat flour – No wheat flour of any kind is used.
- Made in a gluten-free facility – Potbelly produces the flatbreads in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen to prevent cross-contamination.
By carefully selecting gluten-free ingredients and following strict production procedures, Potbelly can ensure no gluten makes its way into their multigrain flatbreads.
What menu items feature the gluten-free flatbread?
Potbelly allows the multigrain gluten-free flatbread to be substituted in place of regular bread or buns for many menu items, opening up more options for gluten-free diners. Some examples include:
- Sandwiches – Any of Potbelly’s signature hot sandwiches can be made on the gluten-free flatbread.
- Pizza – Create a personal pizza on a gluten-free crust.
- Salads – Add a gluten-free multigrain flatbread instead of regular croutons.
- Pick Your Pair – Choose the gluten-free flatbread as one of your sides.
The multigrain flatbread can also be ordered on its own as a snack or side. Keep in mind that when ordering substitutions, cross-contamination is still a risk from shared surfaces, utensils, and ingredients. As always, remind staff that you need gluten-free preparations.
What other gluten-free options are available at Potbelly?
In addition to the multigrain flatbread, some other gluten-free choices at Potbelly include:
- Sandwiches on gluten-free bread – Pick any sandwich to be served on Potbelly’s certified gluten-free bread.
- Salads – Most salad greens and many accompanying ingredients like eggs, cheese, and dressing are naturally gluten-free.
- Soup – Some soups like the chicken noodle are gluten-free.
- Smoothies & shakes – Dairy and fruit-based options without gluten ingredients.
- Sides – Options like chips, applesauce, and chicken tenders can be gluten-free.
- Cookies – Certain locations offer gluten-free cookie varieties that are kept in separate display cases.
Be sure to clearly communicate any gluten-free needs with staff to avoid cross-contamination. Also check labels and allergen information, as ingredients can vary by location.
Key takeaways on Potbelly’s gluten-free flatbread
For those looking for gluten-free fare at Potbelly Sandwich Shop, key facts to remember include:
- Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread is certified gluten-free and contains less than 20ppm of gluten.
- It can be substituted for regular bread or buns in sandwiches, pizza, and other menu items.
- Ingredients like gluten-free whole grain flours, no wheat, and preparation in a gluten-free facility keep it gluten-free.
- Other gluten-free options are available including bread, soups, salads, shakes and cookies depending on location.
- Always inform staff of gluten-free needs to prevent cross-contamination.
- Check directly with your local Potbelly for details on gluten-free offerings.
Is Potbelly flatbread healthy?
For those following a gluten-free diet, Potbelly’s multigrain flatbread can be a healthier bread option compared to some gluten-free packaged breads. Here is how Potbelly’s flatbread stacks up nutrition-wise:
Pros
- Provides fiber – Contains 2g of fiber per serving, from whole grains.
- Low in calories – At just 120 calories per flatbread, it fits into any diet.
- Low in sugar – With only 1g of sugar per flatbread, it avoids blood sugar spikes.
- Contains protein – About 3g plant-based protein per serving gives lasting energy.
- Made from whole grains – Packed with nutrients from whole gluten-free grains.
Cons
- May be high in sodium – Contains 330mg sodium per flatbread.
- Low in nutrients – Doesn’t provide much beyond carbs, fiber, and protein.
- Lower protein than some breads – 3g protein per flatbread is less than some sliced breads.
Ultimately, Potbelly’s multigrain gluten-free flatbread can fit into a balanced, gluten-free diet. It provides a vessel for sandwich fillings and toppings without spiking blood sugar. For optimal nutrition, pair it with protein and nutrient-dense vegetables.
Does Potbelly offer vegan and dairy-free options?
In addition to gluten-free offerings, Potbelly also provides menu options for vegan and dairy-free diets. Some choices include:
Vegan Options
- Oats & honey granola with almond milk
- Mediterranean salad without feta cheese
- Hummus with multigrain chips
- Veggie sandwich on gluten-free flatbread
- Smoothies made with juice, fruit, and greens
Dairy-Free Choices
- Sandwiches without cheese
- Salads without cheese or dressing
- Oats & honey granola with non-dairy milk
- Chips and guacamole
- Fruit smoothies made with juice or non-dairy milk
When ordering, let staff know of any vegan or dairy-free needs. Some menu items like cookies may contain hidden animal products. Check with your location on options and preparation procedures.
Conclusion
For those avoiding gluten, Potbelly Sandwich Shop can be a good dining option thanks to their certified gluten-free multigrain flatbread. By substituting this flatbread in sandwiches, pizza, salads, and more, gluten-free diners have many menu choices. Potbelly also offers some additional gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options.
When dining at Potbelly, be sure to communicate with staff to prevent cross-contamination and verify ingredients at your location. Their gluten-free flatbread provides a versatile foundation to build delicious gluten-free meals.
