The local gluten-free community celebrated the third annual “Gluten Free Food Truck Night” on Saturday, May 23. People who cannot consume gluten, for several reasons, were thrilled at the plethora of options this event provided.
Lorin Smith (@goodglutenfreegrub) started this event three years ago as a way for gluten-free eaters to feel they belong in a community and to provide options for those on gluten-free diets. Among the many vendors in attendance were Chicken Boy, The Meat, Mac Attack and Bacio D’Italia.
“I’ve had Celiac Disease for 10 years, so when I go to festivals and events, I am typically not able to eat anything. I wanted to start something for people to come and not have to stress about finding a food truck, waiting in the line, having to ask all their questions and not being able to eat there,” said Smith.
Why be gluten-free?
Celiac Disease is a severe autoimmune disease where gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine. The only known treatment for this disease is a strict gluten-free diet.
However, a strict gluten-free diet can be difficult to maintain when culture is shaped and shared through food. This can cause gluten-free eaters to feel left out of regular social events. Smith wants those who are gluten-free to know that they are a part of a community.
“The community is everything. I’ve known the gluten-free community is massive for years because I’ve had my Instagram and done other community events. I love this community and I feel so blessed to use my platform for good.”
Smith continues to use her platform to spread positivity, provide proper Celiac education and educate her followers on the long-term effects of untreated Celiac disease.
Although, Celiac is not the only reason someone may be on a gluten free diet. Individuals may go gluten free out of intolerances, preference or a variety of reasons. Megan Jensen, who attended the event, has a severe gluten allergy.“The options here are great,” said Jensen. “We came last year and I saw I could eat everything and didn’t have to worry about getting sick.”
Jensen also appreciates the community aspect of this food truck night. “It helps people connect over their shared ‘we can’t eat anything’ problem,” said Jensen.
Familial Support
Many people attending the event were there in support of a family member or loved one, but did not require a gluten free diet themselves. J.R. Crum, for instance, came with his daughter and his grandson, both of which have Celiac. “They’re able to taste a lot of different kinds of foods that are gluten free. It just gives them more options,” said Crum. “It’s also just a great place to be. Everybody here has the same problem- I can learn a lot.”
Although he doesn’t eat gluten free himself, Crum acknowledges the social toll it can take, particularly on kids. “It’s a big hit for my grandson, who just turned 18. Getting pizza with his friends is tough and everything like that. It is really tough,” said Crum.
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Dining and Cooking