National Grain-Free Day on February 21 is a holiday to recognize and support loved ones with dietary restrictions. Let’s ditch grain and discover exciting new ways to eat for their sake. More people today have to cope with debilitating food allergies and autoimmune disorders. Eating a meal isn’t the same for them any longer. Imagine having to scan restaurant menus only to settle for a side salad. Or forcing a smile during Christmas dinner when all you feel is anything but happy. The possibility of never enjoying a meal again is all too real. But what kind of world would that be? It’s not a world we want to live in — that’s for sure. National Grain-Free Day hopes to inspire families and friends to cook and enjoy grain-free meals together in solidarity.
History of National Grain Free Day
Sitting at a table and enjoying a meal symbolizes togetherness. But someone who cannot eat rice, wheat, or rice for medical reasons often loses the joy of sharing a meal. And who can blame them? You can’t expect anyone to feel festive when all they can eat is a carrot or celery stick. Siete Family Foods founded National Grain-Free Day in 2019 to support people with dietary restrictions.
Not everyone has the luxury to sit down for dinner and eat everything. Many people have celiac disease or other autoimmune diseases that require a strict diet. Eating grain is an absolute no-no. And unfortunately, grains feature prominently on menus and dinner tables everywhere. When a person’s already coping with illness, feeling left out during meals can make it further isolating.
National Grain-Free Day sets out to celebrate a full day of grain-free meals. It’s a reminder that mealtimes need to be more inclusive and mindful of different dietary needs.
Who says grain-free can’t be fun? Take the time to experiment with different recipes — from appetizers to dessert. A great way to start is by identifying all the best grain substitutes you can use. You’d be surprised at how many there are. Think fruit, meat, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, buckwheat, nuts, seeds, and flours without a grain base. Make a list of what you can work with and get cooking.
It isn’t a celebration until family and friends get involved. National Grain-Free Day emphasizes the role of the community to offer support to those struggling. People who are just learning to cope with their disease can find it a particularly trying time. Show them some love today. Cook an amazing spread that everyone can enjoy today and every other day.
National Grain Free Day timeline
The Paleolithic Diet or the concept of eating what cave dwellers hunted or gathered is popular.
Studies find that wheat allergy is the most common food allergy in children.
An N.C.B.I. study shows the connection between grain consumption and chronic inflammation.
Many people have celiac disease since modern wheat varieties contain less protein than old ones.
National Grain Free Day FAQs
What is National Grain-Free Day?
National Grain-Free Day on February 21 is a day to ditch grain in our diets. Overeating grain can lead to obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
What National day is February 22?
National Margarita Day is on February 22. Nobody knows who founded the day. So, all there’s left to do is sit back and enjoy this zinger of a drink.
What flour is grain-free?
If you’re trying to go grain-free and miss four-based foods, there are excellent alternatives in the market to make it easier. Some of the best ones are cassava, almond, tiger nut, and coconut flour.
National Grain Free Day Activities
Cook a grain-free meal
Know someone who’s allergic to grain? Call them home and cook a grain-free meal together.
Do old things differently
Reinvention is the name of the game. Your kitchen and grocery store probably contain substitutes galore already. Find creative ways to enjoy old favorites.
Spread the word
Perfected a delicious grain-free recipe? Share your success story online. Your recipe may bring back the joy of eating for many people.
5 Facts About Quinoa That Will Blow Your Mind
Quinoa isn't a grain
Quinoa is a close biological relative to spinach, chard, and beets.
Why does it look like grain?
The part of quinoa that we cook and eat like rice is the Quinoa seed.
Mind-boggling variety
Although red, white, and black quinoa is the most popular, there are 120 known varieties.
The infamous quinoa “tail”
The string that releases while cooking quinoa is the germ seed and nothing to be alarmed about.
A complete protein
Quinoa is a complete protein containing essential amino acids — rare for plant food.
Why We Love National Grain Free Day
It’s another reason to meet friends
Today offers another reason to celebrate with friends. And if we haven’t been mindful of people’s dietary preferences in the past, let’s redeem ourselves.
Healthy food for everyone
The day helps us re-evaluate what and how much we eat. It’s no secret that excess grain in anyone’s diet is a bad thing. In a bid to help our friends, maybe we can adopt healthier eating habits too.
New attitudes and possibilities
National Grain-Free Day helps us plan meals more inclusively. It also compels people to reimagine possibilities with food.
National Grain Free Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | February 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | February 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | February 21 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 21 | Wednesday |
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