Buffalo Wild Wings is arguably one of the most popular places to grab a drink with friends, catch a game or simply indulge in some delicious wings. But if you’re someone who suffers from a peanut allergy, you may have been hesitant to try out their menu. The question on everyone’s mind is, does Buffalo Wild Wings use peanut oil to fry their wings and other dishes?
It’s common knowledge that peanut oil is commonly used in restaurant kitchens as it’s affordable, has a high smoke point and a long shelf life. However, many people are still unsure if Buffalo Wild Wings uses this oil in their food preparation. After all, the consequences of consuming peanuts can range from mild allergic reactions to severe anaphylactic shock, which is why it’s a valid concern for those with allergies.
With so much confusion and misinformation circulating on the internet, it’s time we clear up the air on whether or not Buffalo Wild Wings uses peanut oil. So, let’s dive into the research and find out once and for all.
Peanut Oil Allergy
For individuals with peanut allergies, dining out can be a daunting experience. Peanut oil, which is commonly used in restaurants and fast food establishments, has been a topic of debate when it comes to peanut allergies. Restaurants must disclose allergens present in their food, but is peanut oil considered an allergen?
According to the Food Allergy Research and Education organization, refined peanut oil does not contain peanut protein which is what causes a reaction in individuals with peanut allergies. The refining process removes the protein, leaving only the oil. However, some individuals may still have a reaction to even refined peanut oil as it can contain trace amounts of protein.
For those with peanut allergies, it is important to speak with a restaurant manager or server about their specific allergy and concerns. Many restaurants and chains, including Buffalo Wild Wings, have policies and procedures in place to accommodate food allergies.
Peanut-free menu options
For those with peanut allergies, dining out can be a stressful experience. But at Buffalo Wild Wings, those with peanut allergies can rest easy knowing that they have options to choose from on the menu that are peanut-free.
- Classic Chicken Wings: The classic chicken wings are cooked in a blend of vegetable oils, making them a safe choice for those with peanut allergies.
- Boneless Wings: The boneless wings are also cooked in a blend of vegetable oils, making them a safe option for those with peanut allergies.
- Veggie Burgers: The veggie burgers provided by Buffalo Wild Wings are made without peanuts and therefore suitable for those with peanut allergies.
It is also important to note that Buffalo Wild Wings takes precautions to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. The establishment has an extensive allergen guide on their website, which lists out all the ingredients and allergens present in each menu item.
If you have a more severe peanut allergy, it is recommended to call ahead and speak to the management to discuss necessary precautions that can be taken to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Buffalo Wild Wings Cooking Oil
Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants fry their wings in a proprietary blend of vegetable oils, which does not include peanut oil. Therefore, if you have a peanut allergy, you can safely enjoy their classic and boneless chicken wings.
| Oil Blend | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Wing Sauce | Distilled vinegar, aged cayenne red peppers, salt, water, canola oil, paprika, xanthan gum, natural butter type flavor and garlic powder. |
| Seasoning Blend | Salt, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, hydrolyzed corn protein, monosodium glutamate, spices and spice extractives. v Blend |
| Potato & Veggie Chips | a pure vegetable oil blend of sunflower, corn and/or canola oil, salt, dehydrated vegetables (potatoes, tomato, garlic), spices, citric acid, annatto. |
Buffalo Wild Wings is committed to providing a safe dining experience for all their customers. However, it is important to remember that cross-contamination can still occur, so it is recommended to inform your server of any food allergies you may have.
Peanut Oil Alternatives
If you’re allergic to peanuts, have a stealth allergy, or simply want to avoid peanut oil, there are several alternatives to choose from when dining at Buffalo Wild Wings.
- Canola oil: This oil is often used as a substitute for peanut oil because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Canola oil is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat, which can promote heart health.
- Soybean oil: Another popular choice among restaurants, soybean oil is a versatile oil with a mild flavor that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to various health benefits.
- Sunflower oil: Made from pressed sunflower seeds, this oil has a light flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures. Sunflower oil contains a good amount of vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties.
It’s important to note that while these oils are considered safe for those with peanut allergies, cross-contamination is always a possibility. To minimize the risk of an allergic reaction, be sure to inform your server of your allergy and ask about the restaurant’s cross-contamination policies.
If you’re cooking at home and want to avoid peanut oil, some other options include:
- Olive oil
- Corn oil
- Coconut oil
- Grapeseed oil
Each oil has its own unique flavor and nutritional profile, so choose the one that works best for your needs.
Cooking with Different Oils: Smoke Points
When cooking with oil, it’s important to pay attention to its smoke point. This is the temperature at which the oil begins to break down and smoke. Cooking with an oil beyond its smoke point can produce harmful compounds and a burnt flavor.
| Oil Type | Smoke Point (℉) |
|---|---|
| Canola Oil | 400-450 |
| Soybean Oil | 440-460 |
| Sunflower Oil | 450-475 |
| Olive Oil | 375-420 |
| Corn Oil | 450 |
| Coconut Oil | 350 |
| Grapeseed Oil | 390-420 |
For high-heat cooking, choose an oil with a smoke point above the cooking temperature. For example, if you’re frying food at 375℉, you want to choose an oil with a smoke point of at least 375℉.
Buffalo Wild Wings menu
Buffalo Wild Wings is a popular sports bar chain known for its wings, beer, and sports broadcasting. However, it also has a diverse menu that offers a variety of options for customers, including salads, wraps, sandwiches, and burgers.
- Wings: This is the flagship item of Buffalo Wild Wings. The wings come in different flavors and heat levels, including traditional buffalo, garlic parmesan, and honey BBQ. Customers can choose between bone-in wings or boneless wings.
- Appetizers: Buffalo Wild Wings offers a wide range of appetizers, such as mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and loaded nachos. These items are perfect for sharing with friends while watching a game.
- Sandwiches and Burgers: For those who want something more substantial, Buffalo Wild Wings has an extensive selection of sandwiches and burgers. Some of the popular options include the Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sandwich, Southwest Philly, and Big Jack Daddy Burger.
In addition to the above, Buffalo Wild Wings also has a range of salads and wraps that cater to customers who want a healthier option. The Wraps come with different fillings, including grilled chicken, buffalo chicken, and crispy chicken.
It is important to note that Buffalo Wild Wings uses peanut oil for cooking its wings and other fried items. For customers who have peanut allergies, it is recommended to avoid these items or inform the restaurant beforehand. Below is a table that shows the nutritional information of some of Buffalo Wild Wings menu items.
| Menu Item | Calories | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Wings – Small (10 pieces) | 1010 | 4g | 83g |
| Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sandwich | 820 | 43g | 38g |
| Southwest Salad with Grilled Chicken | 590 | 28g | 43g |
Overall, Buffalo Wild Wings menu offers a wide range of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. It is a great place to watch sports, hangout with friends, and enjoy some good food.
Frying oil choices
When it comes to frying oil choices, there are several options available for restaurants to choose from. Each oil has its own unique flavor, smoke point, and health benefits. Here are some of the most common frying oils used in the food industry:
- Canola oil: Canola oil is a popular choice for frying because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor. It also has high levels of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, making it a healthier option compared to other oils.
- Corn oil: Corn oil is another popular choice for frying because of its neutral taste and high smoke point. However, it has high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which can be harmful if consumed in excess.
- Peanut oil: Peanut oil is known for its strong, nutty flavor and high smoke point. It’s a common choice for deep-frying because it doesn’t absorb flavors from the food being fried, making it reusable for multiple batches. However, it’s important to note that peanut oil can be harmful to those with peanut allergies.
- Soybean oil: Soybean oil is a popular choice for frying because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point. It also has high levels of polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels in the body.
- Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a blend of several oils, typically including soybean, canola, and corn oil. It has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a versatile oil for frying. However, it may not be the healthiest option since it typically contains high levels of omega-6 fatty acids.
Does Buffalo Wild Wings use peanut oil?
According to the allergen information on the Buffalo Wild Wings website, their traditional and boneless wings are fried in beef shortening. However, some of their sauces and seasonings may contain peanuts or peanut oil, so those with peanut allergies should always check with the restaurant before ordering.
| OIL | SMOKE POINT | FLAVOR | HEALTH BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canola oil | 400-450°F | Neutral | High in healthy fats |
| Corn oil | 450-460°F | Neutral | High in omega-6 fatty acids |
| Peanut oil | 450-475°F | Nutty | High smoke point, reusable, but can be harmful to those with peanut allergies |
| Soybean oil | 440-460°F | Neutral | High in polyunsaturated fats |
| Vegetable oil | 400-450°F | Neutral | May contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids |
Overall, Buffalo Wild Wings uses beef shortening to fry their traditional and boneless wings. However, it’s always important to check with the restaurant for any potential peanut oil or peanut-containing ingredients for those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional information of the food you consume is important, especially if you have dietary restrictions or are watching your calorie intake. Buffalo Wild Wings offers nutritional information on their website for all their menu items, including their use of peanut oil in their cooking.
- According to the website, all menu items cooked in their fryers, including their wings, are cooked in soybean oil. Therefore, their wings are not cooked in peanut oil.
- However, some of their sauces and marinades may contain peanuts or tree nuts, so it’s important to check the ingredients before ordering.
- If you have a peanut allergy, it’s important to inform your server so they can take the necessary precautions in preparing your food.
In addition to allergen information, Buffalo Wild Wings provides nutritional information such as calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates for each menu item. They also offer a nutrition calculator on their website where you can customize your meal and see the nutritional breakdown.
For example, a traditional wing with hot sauce and ranch dressing has approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Total Fat | 31g |
| Protein | 29g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
It’s important to note that the nutritional information may vary based on the specific ingredients and how the food is prepared. However, having access to this information allows you to make informed decisions about the food you eat at Buffalo Wild Wings.
Cross-contamination risk
For those with peanut allergies, cross-contamination can be a serious concern. Even trace amounts of peanuts can trigger an allergic reaction. The risk of cross-contamination at Buffalo Wild Wings and other restaurants that use peanut oil is a legitimate concern, especially in the kitchen where multiple food items are prepared at the same time.
- Buffalo Wild Wings acknowledges that cross-contamination can be a risk for those with peanut allergies.
- They have protocols in place to try to minimize this risk, such as using separate fryers and making sure the kitchen staff is aware of allergy issues.
- However, the risk of cross-contamination can never be completely eliminated, especially in a busy restaurant setting.
If you have a peanut allergy, it’s important to communicate your needs clearly to the server and kitchen staff. Ask if there are any specific menu items that are safe for you to eat, and make sure they understand the severity of your allergy. It’s also important to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, just in case of an emergency.
When dining out, it’s always a good idea to do some research beforehand. Check the restaurant’s website and menu to see if they offer any allergen information. You can also call ahead and speak to a manager or chef to ask about their allergy protocols and procedures.
| Steps for minimizing cross-contamination risk |
|---|
| Use separate fryers for items cooked in peanut oil and those that are not |
| Train kitchen staff to be aware of allergy issues and take necessary precautions |
| Have a dedicated area for preparing allergy-safe meals |
| Communicate clearly with customers about allergen information and menu options |
Ultimately, the decision to dine at Buffalo Wild Wings or any other restaurant that uses peanut oil is a personal one. While the risk of cross-contamination may be a concern, it’s up to each individual with a peanut allergy to weigh the potential risks and benefits and make an informed decision.
FAQs about Does Buffalo Wild Wings Use Peanut Oil
1. Does Buffalo Wild Wings use peanut oil for frying?
– Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings uses peanut oil for frying its wings and other menu items.
2. Are there any alternatives to peanut oil at Buffalo Wild Wings?
– No, there are no alternatives to peanut oil at Buffalo Wild Wings.
3. Is it safe for people with peanut allergies to dine at Buffalo Wild Wings?
– It is not recommended for people with peanut allergies to dine at Buffalo Wild Wings due to the risk of cross-contamination.
4. Can customers request to have their food cooked in a different oil?
– Unfortunately, Buffalo Wild Wings does not allow customers to request a different oil for their food.
5. Does Buffalo Wild Wings have allergen information available for its menu items?
– Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings has allergen information available for its menu items on its website.
6. Does Buffalo Wild Wings use peanut oil in all of its locations?
– Yes, peanut oil is used in all of Buffalo Wild Wings’ locations.
7. Can customers bring their own peanut-free oil to Buffalo Wild Wings for cooking their food?
– No, customers are not allowed to bring their own oil to Buffalo Wild Wings for cooking their food.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has answered your questions about whether Buffalo Wild Wings uses peanut oil. If you have a peanut allergy, we recommend avoiding this restaurant due to the risk of cross-contamination. Remember to always check the allergen information before dining out. Thanks for reading and please visit again soon for more informative articles.