By Shawn Kirkpatrick
Opelika Observer
They’ve been ahead of the gluten- free movement with their Gluten Free Menu. Niffer’s at the Tracks has offered the menu for more than four years.
“Both of our owners are very health conscious, and one has gluten intolerance,” said Anna Dobbel of Niffer’s Management. “She is so severely allergic to gluten she can’t even touch things that have gluten in it. I think that was probably the inspiration for the menu. Plus, Niffer’s has always offered healthier choices, like vegetarian and vegan options.”
According to the Celiac Foundation’s website, gluten is a general name for the proteins found in wheat, semolina, graham, rye, malt and barley. Gluten helps foods maintain their shape, acting as glue that holds food together. Cutting out gluten may seem like a difficult task, especially when eating out. Dobbel said they want to give customers options, changing up the menu from time to time.
“Our products are clean products without the wheat. There is no seasoning on anything on the menu, to keep it absolutely clean, no matter what the tolerance,” Dobbel said. “The food is cooked on a separate grill, or in a separate pan, so it doesn’t come in contact with other proteins.”
Niffer’s gluten-free menu is extensive. It offers grilled chicken or tilapia, several salads with chicken, as well as burgers. “We have gluten-free sides, beers, soups, appetizers and buns for the burgers,” Dobbel added. “We want people to be aware that we have the gluten-free menu. Just ask for it.”
To learn more about celiac disease, visit celiac.org.