GS is an abbreviation seen on some items on the Applebee’s menu. It stands for “Gluten Sensitive” and indicates dishes that are made without gluten-containing ingredients for guests looking to avoid gluten in their diet.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For most people, consuming gluten is not a problem. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause negative health effects and symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, fatigue and more. That’s why gluten-free diets have become popular, both for those medically required to follow them and those who simply feel better when avoiding gluten.
Why Does Applebee’s Label Gluten-Sensitive Menu Items?
Applebee’s labels certain menu items as “GS” or gluten-sensitive as a convenience for guests who are looking to avoid gluten due to celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity or other health reasons. The “GS” label indicates that an item is made without gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, barley, rye and malt. This makes it easier for gluten-sensitive diners to quickly identify dishes that align with a gluten-free diet when scanning the Applebee’s menu.
Common Gluten-Containing Foods
Here are some examples of ingredients and foods that typically contain gluten:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Rye
- Malt
- Bread
- Pasta
- Couscous
- Beer
Gluten-Free Alternatives
Here are some gluten-free ingredient substitutes:
| Gluten-Containing | Gluten-Free Alternative |
|---|---|
| Wheat flour | Rice flour, almond flour, coconut flour |
| Bread | Gluten-free bread |
| Pasta | Zucchini noodles, rice noodles, quinoa pasta |
| Barley | Rice, quinoa, buckwheat |
| Couscous | Quinoa, rice |
| Beer | Gluten-free beer, wine, cider |
How Applebee’s Prepares GS Menu Items
At Applebee’s, menu items marked as “GS” are prepared using gluten-free ingredients and procedures to avoid cross-contamination with gluten. Here are some key steps they take:
- Use designated gluten-free cooking equipment and prep areas.
- Avoid adding thickening agents containing gluten like wheat flour.
- Use gluten-free substitutions like rice flour when needed.
- Clean cooking surfaces thoroughly before prepping GS items.
- Use separate fryer oil to cook GS menu items.
Keep in mind that while these steps are taken, kitchens are busy environments and cross-contamination is always a possibility. Applebee’s does not claim to be a 100% gluten-free facility. Guests with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity should use their best judgement on whether to consume menu items labeled GS.
Examples of GS Items on the Applebee’s Menu
Here are some popular gluten-sensitive dishes commonly found on Applebee’s menus:
Apps and Sides
- Boneless Wings – GS
- Crispy Onion Rings – GS
- Fiesta Lime Chicken – GS
- Crispy Shrimp – GS
- Steamed Broccoli – GS
Salads
- Oriental Chicken Salad – GS
- Southwest Chicken Salad – GS
- Caesar Salad with Chicken – GS
- House Salad – GS
Main Dishes
- Classic Bacon Cheeseburger – GS
- Whiskey Bacon Burger – GS
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers – GS
- Wood Grilled Chicken – GS
- Grilled Salmon – GS
Tips for Ordering GS Items at Applebee’s
Here are some tips for customers ordering gluten-sensitive meals at Applebee’s:
- Scan the menu online first to identify GS options.
- Ask your server which dishes can be prepared gluten-free.
- Specify that you need your meal prepared gluten-free.
- Avoid breaded items unless labeled GS.
- Opt for grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
- Order a salad with gluten-free dressing.
- Request sauces and condiments on the side.
- Ask about possible cross-contamination.
Cross-Contamination Risks
While Applebee’s takes steps to avoid cross-contamination, being a shared kitchen there are some risks, such as:
- Fried items cooked in shared fryer oil as non-GS food.
- GS items prepared on same surfaces/equipment as gluten-containing food.
- GS ingredients stored next to gluten-containing ingredients.
- GS items plated near or touching gluten-containing food.
So those very sensitive should use caution and check with management about their protocols and precautions in place.
Dining Safety Tips for Gluten-Sensitive Guests
Here are some general tips for safely dining out with gluten-sensitivity:
- Research restaurant’s menu and gluten-free options online first.
- Call ahead to ask about prep procedures if highly sensitive.
- Ask wait staff detailed questions about menu items.
- Request food be prepared in a clean pot, pan or area.
- Ask for sauces, dressings and condiments to be served on the side.
- Check labels on packaged foods like salad dressing.
- Skip fried items, unless confirmed to be cooked in dedicated fryer.
- Opt for naturally gluten-free foods like grilled/broiled meats, fish and vegetables.
Being Your Own Advocate
Unfortunately, restaurant staff don’t always understand the seriousness of gluten-related conditions. Some key ways diners can self-advocate include:
- Educating staff on the danger of gluten cross-contact.
- Asking detailed questions about food prep and cooking practices.
- Sending food back if you suspect cross-contamination.
- Speaking to a manager if you don’t feel accommodated.
- Providing feedback to restaurants after dining.
- Thanking restaurants who take extra care to accommodate safely.
Coping If Glutened
Being “glutened” means getting exposed to gluten when trying to avoid it. If this happens, tips include:
- Drinking extra water to help flush gluten from your system.
- Taking digestive enzymes or activated charcoal supplement.
- Getting rest to allow your body to heal.
- Eating easy-to-digest foods like broth, rice, applesauce.
- Avoiding high fiber foods which can irritate the gut.
- Calling your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
The Takeaway on Applebee’s GS Menu Items
GS symbol next to a menu item at Applebee’s means it’s prepared without gluten-containing ingredients. However, cross-contamination is possible in their shared kitchens. The best approach is to ask your server detailed questions about prep and cooking procedures for the GS meal you wish to order to ensure it aligns with your needs and sensitivity level. With good communication and smart menu choices, Applebee’s can be an enjoyable dining option for those avoiding gluten.