Hi, Lou! Thanks for contacting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your great question! Disney straws have certainly stirred up some debates on Twitter, lately!
In an effort to reduce environmental waste, Disney executives stated that by mid-2019, the company “will eliminate single-use plastic straws and plastic stirrers at all owned and operated locations across the globe.” I understand your concern, so I reached out to the
Special Diets Team. According to them, the new straws at Disney owned and operated locations are Aardvark Straws that are 100% paper. I'd suggest taking a look at their website at www.aardvarkstraws.com.
The majority of restaurants in the Parks and Resorts are owned and operated by the Walt Disney World Company. However, many of the restaurants at
Epcot and
Disney Springs are Operating Participants, meaning that they may have a different management company, such as Patina Restaurant Group. Although the Operating Participant restaurants uphold Disney's standards, they may source their straws from other companies, so be sure to ask a Chef or a Manager for information.
Another Moms Panel tip: When making your dining reservations online, there is a place to include gluten-free under special dietary restrictions. It's a good idea to mention any food allergies again upon arrival at the restaurant. For Quick-Service meals, ask a Cast Member for an allergy-friendly menu. And don't worry about missing out on Mickey Waffles during your trip- most restaurants, including the
Crystal Palace, are more than happy to accommodate special diets, and I've heard the gluten-free waffles here are the real deal!
Raglan Road Irish Pub located in Disney Springs also has delicious Fish and Chips made without gluten that are even crispier than the original!
Lou, please feel free to reach out to us again if we can answer any more trip planning questions! See ya real soon!
Eean