There are many advantages for the gluten free traveling in Brazil. The first one would have to be the labeling. The words “contem gluten” and “não contem gluten” (contains and does not contain gluten) are on everything you can buy in any shop, up to and including bottled water (safe, if you were concerned!). Whilst I though Argentina was good in this respect, products made by smaller companies often neglected this (I assume there is a small business loop hole), whereas in Brazil it is on everything, you never need wonder.
The second advantage is that many foods are gluten free. The first one that Everyone knows of, tries and loves, is pao de queijo, or cheese bread. These balls of cheesey goodness are the ultimate convenience food in Brazil, and it is hard to walk more than five minutes without seeing them. Priced around £1 (4 reals) for a large one, the ubiquitousness of this snack means you won’t ever find yourself completely screwed when at the bus station and in need of something to sustain you on a long journey (not at all bitter that this just happened to me in Argentina). They are made from tapioca flour and are pretty darn tasty. There is even a chain devoted entirely to pao de queijo, Casa de Pao de Queijo, who make all sorts from this dough, including paninis and stuffed treats full of dulce de leche. This is my first gf Brazilian super food.
The second best food is biscoitos de polvilho, or cassava biscuits. You won’t ever have to try and pronounce these, as they are sold in bags in shops, like crisps or biscuits, and in taste they are somewhere between the two. Very cheap, very low in calories (they are mainly air), and although only sweet or salty traditionally they now come in a range of flavours.
And taking the third prize is Brazilian cuisine. A bit broad perhaps, but such a relief to have all meals accompanied by beans and rice rather than bread. My favourite was feijoada, a black bean and pork and beef stew, traditionally served on Saturdays at lunch time. It comes with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), greens and something a bit like pork crackling. It is salty, filling and delicious.
So that’s just a brief round up. It is a lot easier to eat out here than in many countries, but awareness of gluten issues is non existent amongst the general population. You will need to find your own way around a menu because I’d be very surprised if anyone has any idea what gluten is, or is very helpful when you try to explain. But as always, do try!
Also, no branded chocolate in Brazil is suitable for coeliacs. None. The chocolate chain, called Chocolates Brazil Cacau, is available in larger cities and is completely gluten free, but a bit odd tasting.
Any questions or recommendations, please let me know!
Gluten free backpacker 