Chuck E. Cheese to have gluten-free offerings!

Chuck E. Cheese started test marketing a gluten-free pizza and chocolate cupcake option in a few select locations in the midwest.

copyright, Chuck E. Cheese

Hallelujah!  In my book, if you have a child under 10, this potentially qualifies as a reason to rejoice!  Just since the new year we've been to two Chuck E. Cheese birthday parties, which were a whole lot of fun, but because of the gluten issue meant that youngest was not able to partake in the pizza and birthday cake.  Thankfully, he's a good sport and understands that eating there is just not an option so doesn't feel like he's missing out on anything (well, at least not missing out on too much).  After the first party, he was pining for a Chuck E. Cheese party of his own; thankfully, we were able to dissuade him from the notion with a way cool Angry Birds birthday party at home (see my Angry Birds pinterest).  Even though it would be hard to top Angry Birds, he's still hoping for that Chuck E. Cheese party on his next birthday.  And now, with this announcement from the grand mouse himself, it just might be a possibility. 

In my opinion there are several things Chuck E. Cheese is doing right in how they're handling their gluten-free products.  They provide both pre-made pizza and cupcake in a sealed pouch which can be used for heating and serving.  The pouch is not opened until it is served at the table so this completely takes care of any issues with cross-contamination from cooking utensils, kitchen surfaces or from those preparing the food.  Brilliant! 

Here's hoping their test goes well and gluten-free kids can soon enjoy ALL that Chuck E. Cheese has too offer.