#22: The Hidden Gluten Dangers in Your Kitchen
That wooden spoon in your drawer might be making you sick. When I was diagnosed with celiac disease, I learned the hard way that gluten can hide in more than just crumbs—it sticks to wood, plastic, nonstick pans, and even toasters. In this episode, I share the common kitchen tools that can cause hidden gluten exposure and what to replace them with to stay safe. If you're still having symptoms on a gluten-free diet, this might be the missing piece.
Let's Recap: Hidden Gluten Dangers in Your Kitchen
Diagnosed with Celiac? Here's What I Learned as an Engineer
When I was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2011, I tackled it like the engineer I am—step by step. I analyzed everything about gluten-free living and rebuilt a life I could enjoy. One thing many people miss? The need to replace some kitchen tools, even if they look clean. It’s not overkill—it’s science.
Why Clean Isn’t Always Safe
Gluten is a stubborn protein. Soap and water don’t always remove it—especially from porous or scratched surfaces. I learned this the hard way: tools that seemed clean still made me sick. My dietician warned me about wooden utensils, but I soon discovered many more hidden risks in my kitchen.
Tools That Can Make You Sick (Even If They Look Fine)
Wooden utensils and cutting boards:
Wood absorbs everything it touches—including gluten. Once it’s in the grain of the wood, it’s nearly impossible to remove completely.
Plastic cutting boards:
Over time, knives create grooves in the surface. Gluten hides in these tiny cuts and doesn’t wash out.
Toasters:
Those crumbs in the bottom? They’re gluten bombs. Gluten sticks to the interior and heating elements, making it impossible to fully clean. When we travel, we bring our own gluten-free toaster or ask for a new one.
Hidden Contamination in Cookware
Nonstick pans:
Even without visible damage, the surface can develop tiny cracks where gluten gets stuck. I kept getting sick until I switched to stainless steel pans, which are fully non-porous and easier to clean.
Cast iron pans:
They can be saved with full resurfacing and re-seasoning—but it takes effort and precision.
Other risky items:
Woven metal colanders (gluten hides in the mesh)
Shared condiment containers (double-dipping with gluten-covered utensils spreads contamination)
Setting Up a Safe Kitchen
Sometimes creating a gluten-free kitchen means:
Having separate storage or prep areas
Using color-coded utensils
Setting clear boundaries with family or roommates
These changes might feel over the top at first, but they bring real peace of mind. You’ll feel safer, reduce symptoms, and avoid the stress of wondering where hidden gluten might be.
Small Changes, Big Impact
If you're newly diagnosed—or cooking for someone who is—understanding where gluten hides is essential. Replacing some kitchen items might cost a bit upfront, but it’s an investment in your health and healing. With a little science and thoughtful setup, your kitchen can become a safe, stress-free place to enjoy gluten-free living.
