Quick Answer
The cauliflower crust offered at Donatos Pizza is certified gluten-free. Donatos uses a cauliflower blend to create a gluten-free pizza crust that can be substituted for traditional crusts on most pizzas. This provides a gluten-free option for customers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The cauliflower crust is prepared separately from other items containing gluten, and the pizzas are assembled on gluten-free surfaces to prevent cross-contamination. Donatos states that the cauliflower crust has been certified gluten-free to less than 10 parts per million by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG).
What is Donatos Pizza?
Donatos is a pizza delivery and carryout restaurant chain headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1963 by Jim Grote, Donatos has over 150 locations in 7 states, predominantly in the Midwest region. Donatos is known for its thin crust pizza loaded with toppings from edge to edge. Its signature pizzas include the Deluxe, House Special, and Create Your Own pizzas with a variety of meat, veggie, and cheese topping options. Donatos also offers oven-baked subs, salads, wings, and desserts.
Does Donatos offer gluten-free options?
Yes, Donatos now provides a gluten-free cauliflower pizza crust as an alternative to its traditional thin crust. The cauliflower crust can be substituted for the regular crust on most Donatos pizzas for an upcharge. Donatos states that the cauliflower crust is certified gluten-free to less than 10 parts per million by the Gluten Intolerance Group. It is prepared separately from other menu items containing gluten to prevent cross-contamination. Donatos kitchen staff change gloves, wash hands, and use sanitized surfaces and utensils when preparing the gluten-free cauliflower pizzas.
What is the cauliflower crust made of?
According to Donatos, the cauliflower pizza crust is made with a blend of riced cauliflower, tapioca flour, eggs, water, olive oil, salt, and yeast. Cauliflower is a gluten-free vegetable that provides a neutral, thick base for a pizza crust when pulsed into rice-like crumbs. Tapioca flour is also naturally gluten-free and adds structure along with the binding properties of egg and yeast. The minimal, clean ingredients create a versatile crust for any pizza toppings.
Is cauliflower nutritious?
Cauliflower is highly nutritious and an excellent ingredient for a gluten-free crust base. Some of the nutrients found in one cup of cauliflower include:
- 25 calories
- 5 grams of carbohydrates
- 2 grams of fiber
- 2 grams of protein
- Vitamin C: 77% of the RDI
- Vitamin K: 20% of the RDI
- Folate: 14% of the RDI
- Pantothenic acid: 7% of the RDI
- Vitamin B6: 7% of the RDI
- Manganese: 5% of the RDI
- Potassium: 5% of the RDI
Cauliflower is particularly high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. It also contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that may help reduce inflammation and lower cancer risk.
Is the Donatos cauliflower crust certified gluten-free?
Yes, Donatos states that its cauliflower pizza crust has been certified gluten-free to less than 10 parts per million by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG). The GIG is an organization that provides gluten-free certification and food safety services to restaurants. For a product to receive GIG certification, it must contain less than 10 ppm of gluten, a level generally considered safe for those sensitive to gluten. Donatos cauliflower crust has met these standards, making it a certified gluten-free menu option.
What does gluten-free certification involve?
For a restaurant like Donatos to receive gluten-free certification for a menu item like the cauliflower crust, it has to pass a series of audits and inspections. Here is an overview of the certification process:
- Application submitted to the GIG including ingredient lists and preparation procedures.
- Initial inspection of the facilities and kitchen operations.
- Testing of products to ensure gluten levels below 10 ppm.
- Evaluation of employee training procedures regarding gluten-free prep.
- Final certification is issued if all standards are met.
- Periodic audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
Certification provides assurance that a restaurant adheres to strict protocols to avoid cross-contamination and safely prepare gluten-free items. Donatos cauliflower crust has gone through this rigorous process to earn its gluten-free designation.
What pizza toppings can be made gluten-free?
Most classic pizza toppings are naturally gluten-free. With the certified gluten-free cauliflower crust from Donatos, the following pizza toppings can be included for a gluten-free pizza:
- Cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, cheddar
- Sauces like pizza sauce or olive oil
- Meats like pepperoni, sausage, chicken
- Vegetables like mushrooms, onions, tomatoes
- Fruits like pineapple
Other potential gluten-free toppings are ham, bacon, basil, spinach, bell peppers, and artichokes. Be sure to confirm gluten-free status when choosing less common toppings. Avoid malt vinegars, beer-battered toppings, and soy/wheat-based meat substitutes.
Common Allergens
While gluten-free, those with other food allergies should be aware the cauliflower crust contains eggs and is prepared in kitchens that use milk, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, and soy. Donatos cannot guarantee against cross-contact for highly sensitive allergies besides gluten.
What items at Donatos are not gluten-free?
While the cauliflower crust is gluten-free, the traditional Donatos pizza crust contains wheat flour and is not safe for those avoiding gluten. In addition, these items prepared by Donatos contain gluten:
- Breadsticks
- Chicken Tenders
- Oven-Baked Subs
- Desserts like CinnaSquares
- Dressings/Sauces containing soy sauce or malt vinegar
Some toppings like breaded chicken tenders or beer-battered mushrooms are also not gluten-free. Check the ingredients carefully and ask for gluten-free alternatives if needed. Besides the certified cauliflower crust, french fries are Donatos’ only other gluten-free side option.
What precautions does Donatos take against gluten cross-contact?
Donatos implements careful precautions in its kitchens to prevent cross-contact between gluten-containing and gluten-free items:
- Gluten-free cauliflower crusts stored separately from regular crusts
- Pizza preparation surfaces cleaned and sanitized before gluten-free pizza prep
- Workers change gloves and wash hands thoroughly before handling gluten-free pizzas
- Gluten-free pizzas baked on separate racks lined with parchment paper
- Gluten-free finished pizzas stored and served separately from other pizzas
However, the same ovens are used to bake all pizzas. Donatos cannot guarantee a 100% gluten-free environment for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. There is still a slight risk of cross-contact.
How can you order a gluten-free pizza from Donatos?
Follow these steps to order a certified gluten-free pizza with a cauliflower crust from Donatos:
- Choose your gluten-free crust option when selecting a pizza.
- Build your pizza with gluten-free toppings or select a signature pizza to be made gluten-free.
- Specify that you need your pizza to be prepared gluten-free.
- Order online, over the phone, or at the counter and emphasize the gluten-free requirements.
- Pick up your pizza from the designated gluten-free area.
- Check your order to ensure it has the gluten-free cauliflower crust.
Always clarify the need for gluten-free with the staff to ensure proper procedures are followed in the kitchen. Check your pizza when picking it up as well.
Is the cauliflower crust more expensive?
Yes, the cauliflower crust does come at an additional charge due to the higher cost of ingredients and special handling. Pricing varies by location, but expect to pay $2-3 extra for a cauliflower gluten-free crust compared to a standard crust. This reasonably covers the difference in food costs. Some locations may offer periodic special discounts on gluten-free crusts as well.
Does the cauliflower crust taste good?
Most reviews of the Donatos cauliflower pizza crust are very positive. Customers say it has a great flavor and crunchy, crisp texture that mimics traditional pizza crust well. The addition of egg and yeast gives it some rise for a fluffier bite. It browns and crisps nicely in the oven. Some say it has a hint of sweetness and savory flavor from the cauliflower base that complements pizza toppings. The taste and texture make it one of the better gluten-free crust options from a pizza chain.
Sample Reviews
“This GF crust has been my favorite so far! Crispy on the edges, holds up well, and tastes pretty good too.”
“I was so excited that Donatos finally came out with a cauliflower crust and it exceeded my expectations. Perfect substitute when my family orders pizza!”
“Tastes like normal pizza crust! My son who has to be GF loves it.”
Should you still tip on a more expensive gluten-free order?
Yes, you should still tip at least the standard percentage on a gluten-free Donatos order, even if it is more expensive than a regular order. Here are some reasons why:
- Serving gluten-free dishes requires extra time and effort from the staff.
- Kitchen staff must carefully follow protocols to avoid cross-contamination.
- Gluten-free ingredients themselves are more expensive.
- It is standard practice to tip based on the total food and beverage cost before discounts or coupons.
The typical tip expectations for good service in a pizza restaurant are:
- 15-20% tip for dine-in service
- 10-15% tip for takeout/delivery orders
Reward the staff for taking the extra care to safely prepare your gluten-free pizza. They work hard to provide delicious options for special dietary needs.
Is the cauliflower crust healthier than regular crust?
The Donatos gluten-free cauliflower pizza crust does have some nutritional advantages over a traditional wheat-based crust:
| Nutrition Per Slice | Cauliflower Crust | Regular Crust |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 110 | 140 |
| Fat | 3g | 2g |
| Carbs | 19g | 23g |
| Fiber | 2g | 1g |
| Protein | 4g | 5g |
- Fewer calories and carbs per slice compared to flour-based crust
- Higher in fiber due to cauliflower, tapioca, and eggs
- Has protein from eggs and some fat for satiety
The cauliflower crust makes a pizza a bit more nutritious for those following a gluten-free diet. It has fewer highly-processed ingredients than flour-based crusts.
Can kids eat the cauliflower crust?
Yes, children and kids can safely enjoy the Donatos gluten-free cauliflower pizza crust. Since there are no major allergen concerns beyond gluten, it is perfectly kid-friendly. Here are some tips for getting kids to enjoy cauliflower crust pizza:
- Stick to kid-friendly toppings like cheese, pepperoni, and sauce.
- Cut the pizza into small pieces that are easy to pick up and eat.
- Serve it alongside fresh fruit, carrots, or cucumbers for balance.
- Try letting them eat it with their hands for fun finger food.
- Prompt them to notice the crunch; kids often enjoy foods with interesting textures.
The mild flavor of the cauliflower lets the tasty toppings shine through. Pizza night at home can still be fun and inclusive for gluten-free kids with Donatos’ cauliflower crust!
Does Donatos have other gluten-free menu options besides pizza?
Unfortunately, most of the Donatos menu contains gluten beyond the cauliflower pizza crust option. The only other naturally gluten-free meal is the regular french fries. Donatos does not have gluten-free breadsticks, subs, desserts, or salad dressings.
Some steps you can take to make other Donatos menu items gluten-free include:
- Order salads and add your own gluten-free dressing
- Choose pizza toppings carefully to ensure they are gluten-free
- Ask for a lettuce wrap sandwich instead of a sub
- Order chicken wings instead of breaded chicken tenders
- Choose gelato for dessert instead of CinnaSquares if available
While options are limited, the certified gluten-free cauliflower crust does open up possibilities for enjoying pizza at Donatos with gluten-related dietary restrictions. Carefully checking the menu for other gluten-free choices is still recommended.
Should you tell the Donatos staff about your gluten allergy every time?
Definitely yes, it is extremely important to inform Donatos staff about your gluten allergy or sensitivity each time you order, even if ordering the gluten-free cauliflower crust pizza. Here’s why you should remind them:
- Alerts them to use proper precautions to avoid cross-contact.
- Confirms your order will be prepared gluten-free.
- Ensures no mix-ups with regular crust or toppings.
- Helps new staff learn proper procedures to safely handle gluten-free requests.
- Shows that you care about their attention to your dietary needs.
Don’t assume they will remember your needs each visit. Politely emphasize that you require a gluten-free pizza every time for your health and safety. This is the best practice for good communication and service.
Conclusion
The cauliflower gluten-free pizza crust from Donatos offers those avoiding gluten a tasty way to enjoy pizza from a popular national chain. Made from simple, nutritious ingredients, the cauliflower crust provides a crispy, lightly sweet base for classic pizza toppings. Donatos has taken steps to earn certification from the Gluten Intolerance Group, showing its commitment to safely preparing gluten-free menu options. While choices are still limited, the cauliflower crust pizza provides a delicious option you can feel good about enjoying. Just be sure to clearly communicate your gluten-free needs to Donatos staff every time you visit. With the proper precautions, Donatos cauliflower crust makes pizza night possible again for gluten-free diners.
