The Chipotle allergen menu is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate the restaurant’s offerings while avoiding potential allergens. No doubt, dining out can be a challenging experience for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions.
However, Chipotle Mexican Grill has taken steps to make it easier for customers to enjoy their meals safely. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to use Chipotle’s allergen menu effectively and discover the various allergy-free meal options available at Chipotle.
Table of Contents
Chipotle Allergen Menu
| Menu Item | Common Allergens |
|---|---|
| Barbacoa | None |
| Bowl | Dairy ( cheese, sour cream) |
| Burrito | Wheat (tortilla), Dairy (cheese, sour cream) |
| Carnitas | None |
| Chicken | None |
| Chips & Guacamole | None |
| Chips & Queso | Dairy (queso) |
| Chips & Salsa | None |
| Fajita Veggies | None |
| Guacamole | None |
| Quesadilla | Wheat (tortilla), Dairy (cheese) |
| Queso | Dairy |
| Salad Bowl | Dairy (cheese, sour cream) |
| Salsa | None |
| Sofritas | Soy |
| Steak | None |
| Tacos | Wheat (tortilla), Dairy (cheese, sour cream) |
Don’t forget to check out the Full Chipotle menu with prices.
| Menu Items | Dairy (D) | Soy (S) | Gluten (G) | Sulphites (Su) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barbacoa | ||||
| Black Beans | ||||
| Brown Rice | ||||
| Carnitas | ||||
| Chicken | ||||
| Chipotle Honey Vinaigrette | Su | |||
| Crispy Corn Tortilla | ||||
| Fajita Vegetables | ||||
| Flour Tortilla (Burrito) | G | Su | ||
| Flour Tortilla (Taco) | G | Su | ||
| Fresh Tomato Salsa | ||||
| Guacamole | ||||
| Monterey Jack Cheese | D | |||
| Pinto Beans | ||||
| Queso Blanco | D | |||
| Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa | ||||
| Romaine Lettuce | ||||
| Sofritas | S | Su | ||
| Sour Cream | D | |||
| Steak | ||||
| Supergreens Lettuce Blend | ||||
| Tomatillo Green-Chili Salsa | ||||
| Tomatillo Red-Chili Salsa | ||||
| Tortilla Chips | ||||
| White Rice |
The following information are as stated by Chipotle Mexican Grill:
Wheat & Gluten Information
Wheat and gluten are grouped together because all gluten-containing items on our menu also contain wheat.
Sulphites Disclosure
The only source of sulphites in our food comes from vinegar, where they naturally occur at levels below 10 parts per million (ppm). At this concentration, federal regulations do not require sulphites to be listed as ingredients. However, to maintain transparency, we label items containing vinegar as potential allergens for customers with heightened sensitivities.
Egg Usage
Eggs are not included in our recipes, except at locations that serve breakfast.
For Customers Avoiding Pork
Our carnitas are prepared using pork.
Cross-Contact Notice
Although we take precautions during food preparation, individual menu items may come into contact with one another. While we do not intentionally include eggs, mustard, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, shellfish, or fish in our recipes, we cannot guarantee that traces of these allergens are completely absent in our restaurants. Additionally, limited-time menu options or test items may contain allergens not listed here.
For more details about food allergens, please visit the Food Allergy Research & Education website at www.foodallergy.org. More information about our ingredients is available on our Ingredient Information page.
Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease
If you are sensitive to gluten, avoid our flour tortillas. For customers with high gluten sensitivity, we can change gloves upon request—please let us know when placing your order. Note that items made from corn, such as corn tortillas (chips and crispy corn shells) and corn salsa, may have trace gluten due to cross-contact with gluten-containing grains during harvesting and processing.
Vegan & Vegetarian Choices
Our Sofritas are fully vegan and vegetarian-friendly. Vegans should avoid meats, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, queso, sour cream, and chipotle-honey vinaigrette. Most other options—including tortillas, vegetables, rice, beans, salsas, chips, and guacamole—are suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
For vegetarians who consume dairy, our shredded Monterey Jack cheese and queso are made using vegetable-based rennet, and our sour cream consists of 100% cultured cream.
Understanding the Chipotle Allergen Menu
The Chipotle allergen menu is a comprehensive guide that lists all ingredients used in their dishes and identifies common allergens present in each item. This is essential for customers with food allergies or sensitivities, as it allows them to make informed decisions about their meals.
Gluten-Free Options at Chipotle
For those following a gluten-free diet, Chipotle offers numerous options. The allergen menu clearly indicates which items contain gluten, making it easy to avoid these ingredients. Some gluten-free choices at Chipotle include:
- Corn tortillas
- All meat and seafood options (except flour-tortilla-marinated meats)
- Rice (both white and brown)
- Beans (black and pinto)
- Fajita vegetables
- All salsas
- Cheese
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
It’s important to note that while these items are gluten-free, there is always a risk of cross-contamination in the kitchen. If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, inform the staff about your dietary needs.
Navigating Common Food Allergies
The Chipotle allergen menu addresses the eight major food allergens recognized by the FDA:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
For each menu item, the allergen chart indicates which of these allergens are present. This information allows customers with specific food allergies to easily identify safe options.
For example:
- Dairy-free options include all meats, beans, rice, fajita vegetables, and most salsas.
- Egg-free choices encompass most of the menu, as eggs are only present in the vinaigrette.
- Nut-free options are abundant, as tree nuts and peanuts are not used in most Chipotle dishes.
It is crucial for individuals with food allergies to comprehend the potential health implications associated with various allergens.
These substances can trigger a spectrum of reactions, ranging from minor discomfort to severe, potentially fatal anaphylaxis. The health consequences linked to these allergens include:
- Peanuts: Severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur, manifesting symptoms such as breathing difficulties and swelling.
- Tree Nuts: Similar severe reactions can result from tree nut allergies, which often cross-react with peanut allergies.
- Milk: Allergic responses to milk can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin eruptions, and in extreme cases, anaphylaxis.
- Eggs: Allergies to eggs may lead to skin reactions, digestive problems, and respiratory distress.
- Soy: While severe reactions are less frequent, soy allergies can provoke skin, digestive, and respiratory symptoms.
- Wheat: A range of symptoms, from skin rashes to gastrointestinal discomfort, may result from wheat allergies.
- Fish: Respiratory symptoms are common in fish allergies, which can also cause severe reactions and anaphylaxis.
- Shellfish: Allergies to shellfish, encompassing both crustaceans like shrimp and mollusks such as clams, can result in severe reactions and anaphylaxis.
Recognizing these allergens and their associated health risks is vital for those with food allergies. This awareness emphasizes Chipotle’s dedication to providing precise allergen information to its patrons, enabling them to make safe and informed dining choices.
Creating Your Perfect Allergy-Free Meal
With the help of the Chipotle allergen menu, you can build a delicious and safe meal that suits your dietary needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your allergy-free Chipotle meal:
- Choose your base: bowl, salad, or corn tortilla (for tacos or burrito)
- Select your protein: most options are allergen-free, except the flour-tortilla-marinated meats
- Add rice and beans: both are free from common allergens
- Include fajita vegetables for added nutrition and flavor
- Choose your salsa: most are allergen-free, but double-check the chart
- Add toppings: guacamole is a great option for most allergies
Remember to communicate your allergies to the staff when ordering, and request that they change gloves and use clean utensils to minimize cross-contamination risks.
The Chipotle Commitment to Food Safety
Chipotle takes food safety seriously, especially when it comes to allergens. The company has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of customers with food allergies:
- Regular staff training on food allergens and proper handling procedures
- Clear labeling of ingredients and allergens in-store and online
- Willingness to accommodate special requests, such as preparing food in a separate area
- Commitment to transparency through the detailed allergen menu
While these efforts significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions, it’s important to remember that Chipotle prepares food in an open kitchen, and there is always some risk of cross-contact.
Tips for Dining Out with Food Allergies
When dining at Chipotle or any restaurant with food allergies, consider these tips:
- Always inform the staff about your allergies
- Ask for the manager if you have concerns or questions
- Request that staff change gloves and use clean utensils
- Avoid peak hours when the risk of cross-contamination may be higher
- Consider bringing your own utensils if you’re particularly sensitive
- Double-check the allergen menu before each visit, as ingredients may change
For more information on managing food allergies while dining out, visit the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chipotle offer completely allergen-free meals?
While Chipotle can’t guarantee completely allergen-free meals due to shared preparation areas, they do offer many allergen-friendly options and take precautions to minimize cross-contamination.
How often does Chipotle update its allergen information?
Chipotle updates its allergen information regularly, especially when there are changes to ingredients or recipes.
Can I trust Chipotle’s allergen menu if I have severe allergies?
While Chipotle’s allergen menu is a helpful guide, always inform staff about severe allergies. They may need to take extra precautions.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction at Chipotle?
If you experience an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. After ensuring your safety, inform the restaurant manager about the incident.
Are Chipotle’s cooking oils free from common allergens?
Chipotle uses rice bran oil for cooking, which is free from the top 8 allergens.
Are Chipotle chips gluten free?
Yes, Chipotle’s chips are gluten-free. They’re made from corn and fried in rice bran oil.
Is Chipotle chicken gluten-free?
Yes, Chipotle’s chicken is gluten-free.
Is Chipotle sauce gluten free?
Most of Chipotle’s sauces and salsas are gluten-free, but always check the allergen menu to be sure.
Is Chipotle peanut tree nut free?
Yes, Chipotle doesn’t use peanuts or tree nuts in their food.
How many ingredients are in Chipotle’s menu?
Chipotle prides itself on using simple ingredients. Their entire menu consists of just 53 ingredients.
Is Chipotle good with food allergies?
In my experience, Chipotle is generally good with handling food allergies. They provide clear allergen information and staff are trained to handle allergy requests. However, always inform them of your specific needs.
Chipotle’s Allergen Menu (Conclusion)
The Chipotle allergen menu is so invaluable for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions. By understanding how to use this resource effectively, you can enjoy a safe and delicious meal at Chipotle.
Remember to always communicate your needs to the staff and stay informed about the ingredients in your food. With careful planning and the right information, you can savor your Chipotle experience without compromising your health or dietary requirements.
Have you used the Chipotle allergen menu before? Share your experiences and tips for navigating food allergies at Chipotle in the comments below!
We are following the updates and the information is relevant in 2025!
PLEASE NOTE: It is important to note that the information presented is derived from publicly available sources and may not be entirely accurate. For the most precise nutritional data, it is advisable to consult the official Chipotle website or contact them directly.
Pricing may fluctuate depending on your geographical location. To obtain the most current and specific pricing information, it is recommended to verify through the Chipotle website or mobile application for delivery to your particular area.