Hello Reader,

This week on my podcast, I dive into why some of the negativity in the community has been weighing on me. I revisit the Modern Bread & Bagel story and the emotions it stirred as I watched the public conversation unfold.

Since recording my latest episode, another incident has popped up involving Hell Yeah Gluten Free bakery in Atlanta. An Instagram influencer reported that a non-gluten-free pop-up bakery was using their facilities. While I believe the influencer was trying to protect the community, she didn’t contact the bakery before posting her concerning video.

The Gluten Dude contacted the company, confirmed the facts, and discovered no gluten-free lives were at risk—a reminder of the importance of verification before jumping to conclusions.

I also recently watched a clip from an influencer talking about being the “first to publicly hate Udi’s.” Sure, Udi’s isn’t perfect—but let’s remember the history.

When Udi’s first launched, there were almost no gluten-free options. They brought accessible gluten-free foods to the masses and helped pave the way for the booming market we enjoy today.

I haven’t tried all of their recent products, and I get it—the early bread formulations weren’t up to today’s standards. Still, readers have told me some items, like their frozen pizza, are surprisingly good.

While we should absolutely hold brands to a higher bar, I’ve learned that voting with your wallet is far more effective than public shaming. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, through my own mistakes, and I’ve vowed not to repeat them. Years of reflection have taught me to strive to be kinder, and I hope others will do the same.

Festive Holiday Hummus Wreath

I had so much fun making this Hummus Holiday Wreath—a healthy, festive appetizer! You can use homemade hummus or grab a gluten-free store-bought version to save time.

Here’s how to make it: place a small bowl in the center of a plate, smear hummus all around, and remove the bowl. Top the hummus with chopped Italian parsley, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with olive oil before serving, and serve with Crunchmaster multi-grain crackers for a delicious holiday snack that’s good for the soul and the belly!

🎥 Watch me make it in this Instagram video. Thanks to Crunchmaster for sponsoring this recipe!

Last Minute Gift Ideas

This year, ask for consumable gifts that don't add to the clutter. Here are some ideas:

Love Me Gluten Free is a gift that celebrates your gluten-free lifestyle - and it's nearly all consumable! I promise you, this is the gift your gluten-free friend wants!

Please note that LMGF has a limited number of January boxes left, so reserve yours ASAP. Boxes ship the first week of January.

I also appreciate my friend Jerann's business, Little GF Chefs. She creates baking kits for kids, giving them the confidence and experience to bake delicious gluten-free treats. Use the code GOODFORYOU for 15% off any purchase at Little GF Chefs baking kit or subscription.

Grazing Trays: Fill this snack box container from Amazon with a variety of cookies, candies, dried fruits, popcorn, and more. It makes a great hostess gift and potluck dessert and can be passed around your friendship circle!

Here's what's inside: Zolli Caramelz, Every Body Eats cookies, Glutino Peanut Butter Wafer Bites, Laura's Gourmet Hot Chocolate Granola Clusters, Wiley Wallaby licorice, Sweet Chaos Peppermint Drizzled Popcorn, AWAKE Chocolate, and Fruit Bliss apricots. I have coupons for several of these brands on my website.

Everybody Eats makes an awesome stocking stuffer. Find these allergen-free crunchy cookies at Whole Foods or online.

Frontier Soups are so beautiful! I gift them as is, with a small bow on top. Use the code LOVE10 for 10% off.

GoNanas Banana Bread Mixes make a great teacher, neighbor, or hostess gift. Use the code LOVEGONANAS for 20% off.

Asked to Bring a Last Minute GF Dessert? No Problem!

Jack's Allergen-Friendly Bakery makes wonderful soft-baked cookies that are dairy- and gluten-free. Find them at Natural Grocers, Sprouts, and other grocery stores nationwide, or use the code LOVEME20 for 20% off.

I wish you a beautiful and meaningful Christmas. I'll be back next Friday to share some parting words for 2025. Love to all!

Sincerely,

Jenny

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Order a Love Me Gluten Free Subscription Box.

Listen to the Gluten Free Unwrapped podcast.

Read about my journey to break up with gluten in my book, Dear Gluten, It's Not Me, It's You.

Go gluten-free fast - enroll in my SIGNATURE Gluten-Free Course.

Visit Good For You Gluten Free for more tips and recipes to help you live your best gluten-free life.