Hi! I’m Michelle and I have coeliac disease. I was diagnosed in 2020 and since then, I’ve been navigating the gluten-free life one bite at a time! I’m passionate about raising awareness, finding safe places to eat (especially while travelling), and helping others with coeliac feel less alone on this journey by using my page, Farewell Gluten (Facebook, Instagram).
How do you rate Malta’s awareness on coeliac disease and the gluten-free diet?
Malta is making progress when it comes to coeliac awareness. You’ll find more restaurants now offering gluten-free options, and some even label their menus clearly. However, there’s still a noticeable gap in consistent staff training especially when it comes to cross-contamination.
Compared to countries like Italy and the UK where coeliac disease is widely recognised and many chain restaurants are coeliac-safe. Recently, I was in Australia, and the difference was very noticeable. The level of awareness there is much higher, and gluten free products are widely available and clearly labelled. What stood out most is that many products are certified by the Coeliac Association, which immediately gives peace of mind.
Do you find eating out easy?
It depends! In some places, yes it’s becoming easier, especially where menus are clearly marked or where staff are knowledgeable and accommodating. But in others, I still need to ask a lot of questions and double-check, which can feel exhausting at times.
What is your usual routine when travelling?
I always do a bit of research before I go. This includes finding coeliac-safe places using social media – Instagram or asking on local Facebook Groups. The Find Me Gluten Free app is also very helpful as one can search for restaurants based on location, cuisine, or specific needs, such as dedicated gluten-free facilities or gluten-free menus.
The most problematic meal in my opinion is breakfast. Even at hotels the options are very gluten-heavy: toast, croissants, pancakes, and cereals. Even when gluten-free options are available, they’re often limited to packaged items or fruit or there’s a high risk of cross-contamination with shared toasters or utensils. If I find a dedicated gluten free bakery in the area, I’ll often try to book accommodation nearby. It makes a huge difference to have a safe spot within walking distance where I can grab breakfast or snacks without worrying about cross-contamination. It takes a lot of stress out of the day. However, it is always a must to pack a few essentials, just in case!
Any favourite gluten-free experience?
There are so many! One of my best experiences was in Italy, where a small restaurant just outside the Trevi fountain and they had the best gluten free pizza I have ever tasted!
Whilst in Australia, I also had one of the most reassuring dining experiences. We went to a buffet-style restaurant (which usually makes me a little anxious due to the risk of cross-contamination) but this place truly went above and beyond. The chef personally walked me through each station, explaining what was safe for me to eat and what wasn’t. That level of care and attention made me feel genuinely seen and safe. They even provided me with gluten-free dessert cakes just for me.
Is there something that you feel still is a struggle to patients with coeliac disease?
Yes, cross-contamination is still a big one. Many places offer “gluten-free” options but don’t fully understand the importance of separate prep areas or utensils. And socially, it can be isolating that is having to explain yourself again and again or being seen as “fussy” when it’s actually a health condition.
One of the main struggles are social events such as weddings, birthday parties, hens, staff lunch and festive gatherings. Often, I have to ask in advance if gluten-free options will be available, which can feel awkward or even burdensome. It can feel isolating watching everyone else enjoy the food freely while you’re either eating nothing or picking at snacks you brought from home. I think this side of coeliac disease is often overlooked—the emotional and social impact of always having to advocate for your needs, even in joyful settings.