Noodles and Company is a popular chain known for its diverse array of noodle dishes, salads, and soups. For those with dietary restrictions or food allergies, navigating a restaurant menu can be daunting. However, Noodles and Company offers a comprehensive allergen menu designed to help customers make safe and informed food choices. This article delves into the details of the Noodles and Company allergen menu, offering insights into the various options available for those with specific dietary needs.
Introduction
Dining out with food allergies or dietary restrictions can often feel like a game of culinary roulette. The fear of cross-contamination or hidden ingredients can make what should be an enjoyable experience into a stressful ordeal. Fortunately, Noodles and Company understands these concerns and has developed an extensive allergen menu to ensure that all customers can enjoy their meals without worry. This detailed guide will walk you through the allergen-friendly options available, highlighting key dishes, safe choices for different allergens, and tips for a safe dining experience at Noodles and Company.
Allergen Information
Overview of Common Allergens
The allergen menu at Noodles and Company categorizes dishes based on common allergens such as:
- Gluten
- Dairy
- Soy
- Nuts
- Shellfish
- Eggs
- Fish
Each menu item is clearly labeled with its corresponding allergen information, making it easier for customers to identify safe choices.
Classic Noodles
- Japanese Pan Noodles: Contains wheat, gluten, and soy.
- Pad Thai: Contains peanuts.
- Spicy Korean Beef Noodles: Contains wheat, gluten, and soy.
Gluten-Sensitive Options
While Noodles and Company is not a gluten-free restaurant, it offers several gluten-sensitive options. It’s important to note that cross-contamination is a possibility, so those with celiac disease should exercise caution.
- Gluten-Sensitive Pipette Mac: Contains dairy.
- Pad Thai with Shrimp: Contains peanuts and eggs.
Dairy-Free Choices
For those avoiding dairy, there are several options:
- Japanese Pan Noodles: Dairy-free.
- Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): Typically dairy-free depending on the sauce.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
The menu offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian choices, many of which can be customized to fit specific dietary needs.
- Japanese Pan Noodles: 100% vegan.
- Zucchini Pesto with Grilled Chicken: Can be made vegan by omitting the chicken and dairy-based pesto.
Menu Categories
Asian Noodles
- Grilled Orange Chicken Lo Mein: Contains wheat, gluten, and soy.
- Japanese Pan Noodles: Contains wheat, gluten, and soy.
- Pad Thai: Contains peanuts.
Zoodles and Other Noodles
- Cauliflower Rigatoni Fresca with Shrimp: Contains dairy, wheat, and gluten.
- Zucchini Orange Chicken: Contains wheat, gluten, and soy.
Salads and Soups
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: Contains eggs, dairy, wheat, and gluten.
- Tomato Basil Bisque: Contains dairy.
Perfect Bowls
- Paleo-friendly: Zucchini in Roasted Garlic Cream Sauce (contains dairy, soy).
- Keto-friendly: Zucchini Alfredo Montamore with Grilled Chicken (contains dairy, wheat, gluten).
- Vegetarian: Japanese Pan Noodles with Tofu (contains soy, wheat, gluten).
- Gluten-Sensitive: Gluten-Sensitive Pipette Mac (contains dairy).
Tips for Safe Dining
- Review the Allergen Menu: Always check the allergen menu available on the Noodles and Company website before ordering. It is regularly updated to reflect any changes in ingredients or recipes.
- Communicate with Staff: Inform the restaurant staff about your allergies so they can take extra precautions in preparing your meal.
- Customize Your Order: Many dishes at Noodles and Company can be customized to fit your dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for ingredient substitutions or omissions.
- Check for Cross-Contamination: While the restaurant takes precautions, it’s important to be aware that cross-contamination can occur, especially with allergens like gluten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat at Noodles & Company if you are lactose intolerant?
Yes, you can. There are several options at Noodles & Company that are lactose-free. However, it’s important to inform the staff about your lactose intolerance so they can take extra precautions to avoid cross-contamination. Some dairy-free options include Japanese Pan Noodles and Zucchini Noodles with customizable toppings and sauces.
Are there gluten-free options at Noodles & Company?
Yes, there are gluten-free options available. The gluten-sensitive menu includes dishes like Pad Thai with Shrimp and Gluten-Sensitive Pipette Mac. However, Noodles & Company is not a gluten-free kitchen, so cross-contamination is possible. Customers with celiac disease should exercise caution.
What allergens are covered in the Noodles & Company allergen menu?
The allergen menu at Noodles & Company covers common allergens such as gluten, dairy, soy, nuts, shellfish, eggs, and fish. Each menu item is clearly labeled with its corresponding allergen information to help customers make informed choices.
Can I customize my order based on allergen preferences?
Yes, you can customize your order at Noodles & Company to fit your allergen preferences. Many dishes can be modified by omitting certain ingredients or substituting others. It’s always a good idea to communicate your specific needs to the staff.
Are there vegan options on the Noodles & Company menu?
Yes, there are vegan options available. All noodles, except egg noodles, are vegan. Dishes like Japanese Pan Noodles and customized salads with vegan dressings and toppings are great options. You can also modify dishes like Penne Rosa to be vegan by omitting dairy products.
How can I access the Noodles & Company allergen menu?
The Noodles & Company allergen menu can be accessed online through their official website. You can find it under the “Nutrition, Allergen & Dietary Lifestyle Calculator” section. This tool allows you to filter menu items based on specific dietary needs and allergens.
Are there allergen-friendly options for kids on the Noodles & Company menu?
Yes, the allergen menu includes options for kids. For example, Kids’ Apples are allergen-free, and other items like Kids’ Buttered Noodles and Kids’ Grilled Chicken are clearly labeled with potential allergens.
How often is the Noodles & Company allergen menu updated?
The allergen menu is updated regularly to reflect any changes in recipes or ingredients. It’s recommended to check the most recent allergen information on the Noodles & Company website before dining.
Does Noodles & Company provide information about cross-contamination?
Yes, Noodles & Company provides information about cross-contamination. While they take precautions to prevent it, cross-contact with allergens can occur in a shared kitchen environment. It’s important for customers with severe allergies to communicate their concerns to the staff.
Are there dairy-free alternatives at Noodles & Company?
Yes, there are several dairy-free alternatives available. Dishes like Japanese Pan Noodles and certain salads can be prepared without dairy. Always check the allergen menu and inform the staff of your dietary restrictions.
Can I find nutritional information for Noodles & Company dishes?
Yes, full nutritional information for all dishes is available through the “Nutrition, Allergen & Dietary Lifestyle Calculator” on the Noodles & Company website. This tool allows you to view detailed nutritional content and customize dishes based on your dietary needs.
What are the best options for someone with a soy allergy at Noodles & Company?
For someone with a soy allergy, it’s important to avoid dishes containing soy. Options like the Pad Thai without tofu or any soy-containing ingredients, and certain salads without soy-based dressings are safer choices. Always consult the allergen menu and inform the staff.
Are there nut-free options at Noodles & Company?
Yes, there are nut-free options. Dishes like the Spaghetti & Meatballs and Tomato Basil Bisque do not contain nuts. However, due to the risk of cross-contamination, it’s crucial to inform the staff about your nut allergy.
Can I get a PDF version of the Noodles & Company allergen menu?
Yes, a PDF version of the allergen menu is available for download on the Noodles & Company website. This allows customers to easily review allergen information offline.
What should I do if I have a severe allergy and want to dine at Noodles & Company?
If you have a severe allergy, it’s essential to communicate this to the staff when you order. They can take extra precautions to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. Reviewing the allergen menu beforehand and discussing your concerns with the restaurant can help ensure a safer dining experience.
Are there allergen-friendly dessert options at Noodles & Company?
Yes, there are a few allergen-friendly dessert options. However, most desserts like the Chocolate Chunk Cookie and Rice Crispy contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. It’s important to check the allergen menu and choose accordingly.
Conclusion
Noodles and Company makes it easier for individuals with food allergies or dietary restrictions to enjoy a meal out with their comprehensive allergen menu. By understanding the allergen content of each dish and communicating your needs clearly, you can enjoy a safe and delicious dining experience. Always refer to the most current allergen information available on the Noodles and Company website and don’t hesitate to ask the staff for assistance.
