When it comes to dining out with food allergies, knowledge isn’t just power—it’s safety. That’s why the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu is such an essential resource. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, lactose intolerant, or managing a nut allergy, understanding what’s in your food can be the difference between a great meal and a health risk. This guide will break down everything you need to know about Noodles and Company’s allergen-friendly approach, their menu layout, and how to order safely.
Noodles and Company Allergen Menu
| Menu Item | Milk | Egg | Wheat/Gluten | Soy | Peanuts | Tree Nuts | Fish | Shellfish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Mac & Cheese | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Japanese Pan Noodles | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Pad Thai | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Penne Rosa (with cheese) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Spaghetti & Meatballs | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Zucchini Rosa (no cheese) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Cauliflower Rigatoni Fresca | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Buttered Noodles | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| The Med Salad (no cheese) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
The Noodles and Company Allergen Menu is a detailed guide that identifies which common allergens are present in each of their dishes. This includes major allergens like gluten, milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. It’s designed to help customers with food allergies or dietary restrictions make safe and informed choices.
Unlike a typical menu, this allergen chart uses a grid format, showing allergens across rows and menu items down the columns. It’s available both online and in-store, making it convenient whether you’re planning ahead or ordering on the spot. Noodles and Company is transparent about cross-contact risks, too—an important distinction for anyone with severe allergies.
By checking the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu, you can quickly spot which items are safe and which to avoid. It’s a proactive step that shows the company’s dedication to inclusive dining, allowing everyone to enjoy their globally inspired noodle bowls with peace of mind.
Read Noodles and Company Allergen Chart
Reading the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu might look intimidating at first, but it’s simpler than you think. The chart is organized to show which allergens are present in each dish. Across the top, you’ll see allergen categories like milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. On the left, the various dishes—from appetizers to main entrées—are listed.
If a dish contains a specific allergen, a symbol or letter is marked in the corresponding box. For example, an “X” under the milk column next to Wisconsin Mac & Cheese indicates that dish contains dairy. Blank spaces usually mean the allergen is not present, but you should always double-check with staff in case of cross-contact.
Another useful aspect is that the chart is updated regularly. That’s why Noodles and Company encourages guests to check the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu online before every visit. Ingredients can change, and this ensures you always have the latest, most accurate information.
Top Allergens Covered by the Menu
The Noodles and Company Allergen Menu covers the top 8 allergens identified by the FDA, making it a comprehensive tool for most allergy concerns. These include:
- Milk: Common in creamy sauces and cheeses
- Eggs: Found in pasta, dressings, and baked items
- Wheat/Gluten: A key ingredient in traditional noodles and breads
- Soy: Present in many Asian-inspired dishes and dressings
- Peanuts: Less common but still monitored
- Tree Nuts: Such as cashews or almonds in specialty dishes
- Fish and Shellfish: Occasionally present in limited-time offerings
In addition to these, the menu often includes symbols for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-sensitive options. It’s worth noting that gluten-sensitive does not always mean gluten-free, as cross-contamination in kitchens is always a possibility.
The allergen information allows you to confidently scan your options. Still, because ingredients and kitchen procedures can evolve, Noodles and Company advises all guests to consult the allergen menu regularly and communicate dietary needs clearly with the staff.
Popular Noodles and Company Alergen Dishes
Understanding the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu becomes easier when you apply it to actual dishes. Let’s look at some fan favorites and the allergens they typically contain:
Mac & Cheese Allergen Info
One of the most popular items, Wisconsin Mac & Cheese, contains milk, wheat, and eggs. It’s a no-go for those with dairy or gluten intolerance unless modifications are made.
Zoodles & Caulifloodles Dishes
Zoodles (zucchini noodles) and Caulifloodles (cauliflower-infused noodles) are great low-carb and gluten-sensitive options. While the noodles themselves are gluten-free, the toppings or sauces might not be. Check the allergen chart carefully to verify the full dish.
Asian Noodle Favorites
Dishes like Japanese Pan Noodles often include soy, wheat, and sometimes sesame, which is not always listed unless required by state regulations. These items are flavorful but high-risk for soy or wheat-sensitive diners.
The Noodles and Company Allergen Menu breaks these details down so you’re not guessing. It’s especially helpful if you’re trying to make substitutions or identify ingredients that can trigger an allergic reaction.
Tips for Ordering If You Have Food Allergies
| Tip | Explanation | Practical Example |
|---|---|---|
| Inform the staff about your allergies | Always tell your server about your allergies before ordering to avoid accidental exposure. | “I am allergic to peanuts; can you make sure my meal doesn’t contain any?” |
| Ask detailed questions about menu items | Clarify ingredients, cooking methods, and potential cross-contamination risks. | “Does this dish contain any dairy or gluten? How is it prepared?” |
| Request allergen-free modifications | See if dishes can be safely modified or substituted to avoid allergens. | “Can you leave out the cheese or substitute the sauce?” |
| Avoid high-risk foods | Steer clear of common allergens unless confirmed safe (e.g., nuts, shellfish, gluten, dairy). | Choosing a salad without nuts or avoiding fried items cooked in shared oil. |
| Check for cross-contact risks | Ask if the kitchen uses shared equipment or prep areas that might contaminate your food. | Is this cooked in a fryer that also fries seafood or breaded items? |
| Bring allergy cards or notes | Carry written allergy info to show staff clearly what you must avoid. | Handing the server a card that lists your allergens. |
| Double-check before eating | Confirm your meal again when it arrives to ensure it meets your allergy needs. | “Can you confirm this dish does not have any nuts or dairy?” |
| Know emergency procedures | Be prepared to act quickly if allergic reactions occur; carry any necessary medication like an EpiPen. | Always have your EpiPen or allergy meds handy while dining out. |
Is Noodles and Company Allergy-Friendly?
The short answer is yes—with caution. The Noodles and Company Allergen Menu provides a solid foundation for safe dining, and the company clearly aims to accommodate allergy-sensitive guests. However, it’s not a certified allergen-free facility.
Noodles and Company kitchens use shared cooking surfaces, utensils, and oil. Even if a dish doesn’t contain a particular allergen, there’s a possibility it could come into contact with one. This is why the allergen menu includes disclaimers and encourages diners to inform staff of any serious allergies.
For mild to moderate food sensitivities, the allergen menu is generally enough to help you avoid problematic ingredients. For those with life-threatening allergies, it’s essential to have a conversation with the restaurant staff before ordering.
Still, compared to many other fast-casual restaurants, Noodles and Company stands out for its transparency and regularly updated allergen menu, giving allergy-conscious diners more confidence in their choices.
Final Thoughts
In a world where dining out can be stressful for people with allergies, the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu offers a breath of fresh air. It’s a well-structured, easy-to-use resource that allows guests to understand what they’re eating, make substitutions, and minimize risks.
From gluten-sensitive pasta lovers to dairy-free diners, the allergen chart covers most dietary needs. The brand’s digital tools and staff training further reinforce its commitment to safety and inclusivity. Of course, no system is perfect—cross-contact remains a concern—but Noodles and Company is doing more than most in the fast-casual industry to address those concerns.
If you or a loved one has food allergies, don’t skip the Noodles and Company Allergen Menu next time you dine. It might be the most important item on the menu.
FAQs
Q1: Is allergen info available for all Noodles and Company dishes?
Yes, Noodles and Company provides detailed allergen information for each of their menu items. This information helps customers identify potential allergens in dishes so they can make safe dining choices. You can usually find the allergen details on their official website, in their mobile app, or by asking restaurant staff in person.
Q2: Are there gluten-free options available at Noodles and Company?
Noodles and Company offers some gluten-free options to accommodate customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, it’s important to note that the kitchen uses shared equipment, which means there is always a chance of cross-contact. Therefore, if you have a gluten allergy, make sure to inform the staff when ordering to minimize any risks.
Q3: Can I customize my meal to avoid certain allergens?
Many dishes at Noodles and Company can be customized to exclude specific allergens. For example, you might be able to request certain ingredients to be left out or substituted. It’s crucial to communicate your allergies clearly to the server or staff so they can ensure your meal is prepared safely without the allergens you need to avoid.
Q4: Is there a cross-contact risk with shared equipment?
Like most restaurants, Noodles and Company does use shared kitchen equipment, which means cross-contact with allergens is possible. Although the staff follows safety procedures to reduce contamination, it is important to inform them about your allergies so they can take extra care when preparing your meal.
Q5: Is Noodles and Company safe for people with nut allergies?
While Noodles and Company offers some dishes that do not contain nuts, nuts and nut oils are used in their kitchen. Because of this, there is a risk of cross-contact. Customers with nut allergies should notify the staff and review allergen information carefully before placing an order.
Q6: How can I find the most updated allergen menu for Noodles and Company?
The most up-to-date allergen menu for Noodles and Company is available on their official website and mobile app. Additionally, you can ask the restaurant staff directly when visiting. Checking the current allergen menu before ordering helps you make the safest choices based on your dietary needs.
Q7: How to manage severe allergies at Noodles and Company?
If you have a severe allergy, it’s best to inform the staff clearly about your condition before ordering. Carry your emergency medication, such as an EpiPen, at all times while dining out. You may also consider calling ahead to discuss your allergies with the restaurant to ensure they can accommodate you safely.
