Gluten-Free Food Shopping in Spain: Why Mercadona & Carrefour Are Coeliac Heaven 🇪🇸

Glutenfreetogether
May 4
3 min read

Updated: May 11

If you’re planning a trip to Spain and worried about finding gluten-free food, let me reassure you: Spain is an absolute dream for coeliacs!

Forget the stress of hunting for safe food Spanish supermarkets like Mercadona and Carrefour offer an incredible gluten-free selection, with clear labelling and surprisingly delicious products. Honestly, I had trouble fitting everything into my suitcase to bring home!

Here’s a breakdown of the best supermarkets in Spain for gluten-free shopping, plus my personal recommendations on what to buy.

🛒 1. Mercadona – A Gluten-Free Hidden Gem

During my stay, I visited three different Mercadona stores and was blown away by the quality of their gluten-free products especially the bread.

⭐ Gluten-Free Products You Must Try from Mercadona:

White sandwich loaf – Soft, fluffy, and honestly the best GF bread I’ve ever eaten since being diagnosed.
Gluten-free burger buns – Perfect texture, not crumbly or dry.
Crackers & cakes – Light, tasty, and ideal for snacks or picnics.

✅ Bonus: Many of their gluten-free items are also lactose-free—great if you're dealing with multiple dietary restrictions!

I even enjoyed this bread with just butter (a rare thing if you’ve tried most GF breads!). Check out my Instagram post where I rave about it!

🛍️ 2. Carrefour – The Ultimate Coeliac Supermarket

If you want variety and big-name gluten-free brands, head straight to Carrefour. It’s a huge supermarket chain with everything from groceries to home goods and a dedicated gluten-free section that makes shopping incredibly easy.

🍰 Gluten-Free Highlights at Carrefour:

Clearly marked GF shelves and sections throughout the store
A mini gluten-free bakery within the regular bakery area
A labelled gluten-free fridge section for cakes and desserts
An amazing selection of Schär products including some exclusive to Spain that you won’t find in the U.K.

Whether you're self-catering or just looking for snacks, Carrefour is an essential stop for any

gluten-free traveller.

🍔 3. Yes, Even Burger King & McDonald’s Have Gluten-Free Options!

Spain doesn’t just shine in the supermarkets the fast food scene is surprisingly coeliac-friendly too!

🍟 Gluten-Free at Burger King Spain:

100% gluten-free buns available (ask for “sin gluten”)
Prepared and served using a cross-contamination protocol
Certified by FACE (Spanish Coeliac Association)
You can safely order a gluten-free Whopper meal, including fries and a bun!

🍔 Gluten-Free at McDonald’s Spain:

Select McDonald’s locations offer gluten-free burgers
Served with a gluten-free bun and wrapped separately
Many of their fries are also gluten-free, but it’s best to double-check locally
Their allergen menu is very clear and available online or in-store

✨ Pro tip: Use your Coeliac Travel Card when ordering at these restaurants to make sure your request is clearly understood.➡️ Get your Spanish Coeliac Travel Card here !

Fast food doesn’t have to be off-limits Spain makes eating out easy, quick, and safe for coeliacs on the go.

✅ Bonus Tips for Gluten-Free Travel in Spain

Bring a Coeliac Travel Card to explain your needs in Spanish when eating out. It makes communication much easier and safer—especially in smaller towns.➡️ Grab your Spanish Coeliac Travel Card here!
Explore both supermarkets they each have unique gluten-free gems you’ll want to try.
Pack extra space in your luggage you’ll thank yourself when you discover all the gluten-free goodies Spain has to offer!

Final Thoughts: Spain Is a Gluten-Free Paradise

Honestly, shopping gluten free in Spain puts the U.K. to shame. The labelling is clear, the options are vast, and the quality is exceptional. Whether you’re on holiday, backpacking, or relocating, don’t miss the chance to explore these coeliac-friendly supermarkets.

✈️ Planning a trip? Don’t forget your Coeliac Travel Cards they’re your essential travel companion for safe, confident dining abroad.

➡️ Shop the Gluten-Free Travel Cards Now and make your Spain adventure stress-free and delicious!