05/22/2026
This one feels like a silly preference, but there is a real difference between cross-contact and cross-contamination, and while cross-contact for someone with celiac disease or another severe allergy can have similar results that seem similar to cross-contamination, I think it's good to know the difference!
Knowing the difference between the two phrases also helps others understand why someone with celiac, which is considered an allergy, can't just remove the croutons from their salad and eat it, or bake their cookies on the same sheet as regular cookies were just baked on, or eat things made in a shared prep space.
Celiacs ask lots of questions, and it might seem like they're being overly cautious, because being exposed to gluten won't immediately kill them like a nut or seafood allergy might, but it is as serious and has adverse affects that can set their healing back years, and take months to get under control.
Knowledge is power, right?! 😜