There are many reasons why people bring food from home, and Celiac disease is one of them.

Bringing food from home can greatly benefit your health in several ways. First, it allows for better control over ingredients, making it easier to avoid unhealthy additives, excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats commonly found in processed or restaurant meals. It also helps manage portion sizes and ensures that meals are balanced with nutritious foods like vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. Additionally, homemade meals reduce the risk of foodborne illness and, for those with specific dietary needs like celiac disease, help prevent accidental gluten exposure.

Celiac disease is different from other food sensitivities or intolerances because even trace amounts of gluten can cause significant harm. A single crumb of gluten-containing food can trigger an autoimmune response, damaging the lining of the small intestine. Unlike a food allergy that may cause an immediate reaction, celiac disease often results in delayed symptoms that can range from severe digestive discomfort to chronic fatigue or neurological problems. Beyond the immediate discomfort, repeated exposure to gluten can lead to long-term health issues like malnutrition, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of cancer.

Although awareness of gluten intolerance has grown in recent years, and more restaurants now offer gluten-free options, these options are not always safe for people with celiac disease. Many restaurants label items as "gluten-free" but still prepare them in shared kitchens where cross-contact is likely. Without separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking equipment, the risk of gluten contamination remains high.

For those of us with celiac disease, bringing our own food everywhere can feel empowering. It gives us control over what we eat, helping us avoid gluten exposure and the anxiety that can come with dining out. Instead of worrying, we can fully enjoy social events, knowing we’re safe. Over time, many of us develop little habits to make this easier—like preparing meals ahead of time, always having snacks on hand, and figuring out which foods travel best. It becomes second nature and gives us peace of mind in any situation.

I do not have celiac disease or any food allergies. I started packing my own lunches many years ago when I arrived in the USA from Switzerland. I quickly realized that vegetarian meal options outside my home were scarce. I made it a habit to bring my own meals to work and social outings. Years later, when my son was born, I was determined to provide him with the same wholesome, homemade meals I preferred. This desire ended up sparking the creation of our first food warmer sleeve and the birth of Warmables.

Now, with my son at 23 and living independently, my commitment to vegetarianism remains strong. Despite the abundance of food options today, I still prefer to bring my own meals. Why? Primarily because I value knowing exactly what I’m eating. I prioritize clean, nutritious meals—free from preservatives and unrecognizable ingredients—because I believe that good nutrition is the best health insurance one can have.

Additionally, preparing my meals is a more affordable choice than buying lunch every day. I’d rather spend that money on a yearly trip to visit my family in Switzerland.

If you pack lunches, you’ll find our insulator sleeves useful. They keep meals warm or cold inside your lunch bag. We offer them in several sizes and a variety of prints and colors to suit the entire family.They can be found on our SHOP page in the FOOD WARMER SLEEVE section.