The GFML (Gluten-Free Meal) is designed to eliminate wheat, rye, barley, and oats from your in-flight dining.
While most airlines offer gluten-free options, the quality and safety levels vary significantly between carriers.
The GFML is designed for travellers with coeliac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those following gluten-free diets.
These meals eliminate all grains containing gluten, including wheat, rye, barley, oats, and their derivatives, such as flour, starches, and semolina.
Most airlines offer meals that focus on naturally gluten-free ingredients, such as rice, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, as sources of carbohydrates.
You’ll receive grilled meats or fish, steamed vegetables, rice dishes, and specially sourced gluten-free bread.
Note that airline catering facilities often prepare multiple meal types in the same kitchens, using shared equipment and surfaces that may contain gluten residue.
While airlines make efforts to accommodate gluten-free requirements, the level of precaution varies dramatically between carriers.
Some airlines have dedicated gluten-free preparation areas, while others avoid obvious gluten-containing ingredients but do not prevent cross-contamination.
What’s included
- Grilled meats, poultry, and fish
- Rice and rice-based dishes
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Corn and potato-based sides
- Dairy products (cheese, yoghurt)
- Gluten-free bread or crackers (when available)
- Quinoa and other gluten-free grains
- Natural herbs, spices, and seasonings
What’s never included: Wheat, rye, barley, oats, regular bread, pasta, soy sauce (contains wheat), beer, regular crackers, breaded items, or foods containing gluten-derived ingredients.
Dietary notes: Designed to be gluten-free, but cross-contamination risks vary by airline. It is not automatically dairy-free or suitable for other allergies. People with severe coeliac disease should consider bringing their food due to contamination risks.
How to Order
It is available on most airlines worldwide, but quality and safety standards vary significantly.
Must be pre-ordered at least 24-48 hours before departure.
During booking โ Select the special meal option and choose GFML
After booking โ Call the airline or manage booking online
Travel agent bookings โ Contact your agent
Alternatives
FPML (Fruit Platter) โ Naturally gluten-free, though limited nutrition
Bring your gluten-free food โ The safest option for severe coeliac disease
Pack gluten-free snacks โ Essential backup for delays or meal failures
Discover Airline Options
Find specific meal information for your airline.
FAQs
Is GFML safe for people with coeliac disease?
Safety varies significantly by airline. Some carriers have excellent protocols, while others have minimal measures in place to prevent cross-contamination. Research your specific airline and consider bringing your food for severe coeliac.
Do airlines understand cross-contamination?
Some do, many don’t. Premium airlines and those with large gluten-free passenger volumes typically have better understanding and protocols.
Should I trust airline gluten-free bread? Use caution.
Some airlines source certified gluten-free bread, while others may not meet coeliac-safe standards. Ask about certification when ordering.
What if I react to the gluten-free meal?
Unfortunately, this happens. Always travel with appropriate medications and have a backup food plan. Report reactions to the airline to help improve their protocols.
Can I bring my gluten-free food through security?
Yes, solid gluten-free foods are allowed through security. This is often the safest option for people with severe coeliac disease.
