Canny Summer Tips for Gluten-Free Travelers: An Interview with Jules Shepard, Founder & CEO of gfJules.

July 24th, 2024

Traveling can be a joyful and fulfilling experience, but for those with dietary restrictions like celiac disease, it can also be a source of anxiety. Ensuring that you have safe, gluten-free options while exploring new destinations is paramount. Jules Shepard, the CEO and Founder of gfJules, has been at the forefront of the gluten-free community for years. As the creator of the top-rated gluten-free flour and baking mixes company in the U.S., she’s not only revolutionized gluten-free baking but also become a trusted voice for those navigating gluten-free living.

In an exclusive interview, Jules shares her invaluable insights and top tips for gluten-free travelers, ensuring that your summer adventures are safe, enjoyable, and delicious.

A Journey of No Compromise: The Birth of gfJules

Jules Shepard’s journey to founding gfJules began in the 1990s after being diagnosed with celiac disease. Frustrated with the dry, gritty, and often tasteless gluten-free options available at the time, she took matters into her own hands. “I found it unfair and unjust to anyone living gluten free to have to live with such compromise,” Jules explains. After two years of experimenting in her kitchen, she perfected an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend that allowed her to continue her passion for baking without sacrificing taste or texture.

This determination to create a no-compromise product became the foundation of her company, gfJules. “It’s founded on my mission to make everyone’s gluten-free life safe, successful, and delicious,” she shares. Jules’ deep personal understanding of the challenges faced by those living gluten-free has enabled her to craft products that resonate with consumers, leading gfJules to be consistently voted #1 in consumer choice awards.

Top Three Essential Tips for Gluten-Free Travelers

As summer travel season heats up, Jules offers her top three essential tips for gluten-free travelers:

1. Pack Your Own Safe Foods: “If flying, pack plenty of your own safe foods for the flight,” Jules advises. While non-liquid perishables are generally allowed on planes, it’s essential to check restrictions, especially for overseas flights. Homemade gluten-free muffins, protein bars, and even leftovers can be lifesavers on long flights. Jules warns against relying on airline meals unless they are labeled and prepackaged, as these are the only foods regulated by the FDA for accurate gluten-free labeling.
2. Travel with Gluten-Free Oats: A versatile and filling option, certified gluten-free oats are a must-have for any traveler. “Adding boiling water to instant oats is a great way to get a filling, nutritious meal in nearly any hotel room,” Jules suggests. Alternatively, you can prepare overnight oats by adding milk to oats in a jar and refrigerating them for breakfast the next morning.
3. Use Gluten-Free Apps: Finding safe dining options on the go can be a challenge, but gluten-free apps like the Gluten Dude App or Find Me Gluten Free make it easier. “These apps are great for finding a restaurant with gluten-free options near you,” Jules notes. Additionally, a quick Google search for “gluten-free restaurant near me” can help you locate safe dining options wherever you are.

Traveling with Non-Gluten-Free Companions

Traveling with companions who don’t follow a gluten-free diet doesn’t have to be a hurdle. Jules emphasizes inclusivity: “The gluten-free muffins you’re packing should be delicious enough that everyone should want one!” When dining out, look for inclusive restaurants that offer both gluten-free and non-gluten-free options in a safely segregated manner. The aforementioned apps and Google reviews can help identify suitable options in nearly every town. And as a backup, always have snacks on hand to avoid going hungry.

Researching and Selecting Safe Dining Options

Jules recommends starting your search for safe dining with trusted gluten-free dining apps. “The most trusted app I know is the Gluten Dude App,” she says, noting that it thoroughly vets restaurants for cross-contamination risks. Find Me Gluten Free is another popular, crowd-sourced option. When traveling internationally, Google Maps can be especially useful. “Simply open Google Maps and type in ‘gluten-free restaurant near me,’ then read the reviews and options provided,” Jules advises.

Embracing Local Cuisines While Staying Gluten-Free

One of the joys of travel is exploring local cuisines, and being gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out. Jules highlights several cuisines that are more naturally gluten-free, such as Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Sushi, and Latin American. “These cuisines tend to rely less on wheat flour, making them easier to navigate,” she explains. However, she cautions that sauces and flavorings may still contain gluten, so vigilance is key.

Must-Have Snacks for Gluten-Free Travelers

To avoid dietary mishaps while on the road or in the air, Jules stresses the importance of carrying gluten-free protein bars at all times. “The number one must-have item any gluten-free traveler should carry with them at all times is a bevy of gluten-free protein bars,” she says. These portable snacks can be a lifesaver in situations where safe food options are scarce. On a trip to Italy, Jules relied on KIND Bars, which saved her from going hungry when safe meals weren’t available.

Traveling gluten-free doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful planning, the right tools, and a little creativity, you can enjoy safe and delicious meals no matter where your travels take you. Jules Shepard’s expert tips provide a roadmap for gluten-free travelers, ensuring that your summer adventures are memorable for all the right reasons. So pack your bags, grab your gluten-free snacks, and get ready to explore the world with confidence.