I have celiac disease. It is a serious health matter.
cheh-lee-AH-kyah — four syllables, stress on third. 'ch' before 'i' = hard 'k' sound in Italian.
Use when celiac disease requires strict kitchen protocols, not just menu avoidance. Cross-contamination from shared pasta water or utensils can cause serious symptoms.
Celiachia is the Italian medical term for celiac disease. Saying it is 'seria' (serious) communicates that this isn't a preference but a medical condition. Follow up by asking about separate preparation, dedicated cookware, and gluten-free certification.
Cucinate la pasta in acqua separata?
Do you cook the pasta in separate water?
Cross-contamination check — shared pasta water transfers gluten.
Avete la certificazione AIC?
Do you have the AIC certification?
AIC is the Italian Celiac Association that certifies restaurants.
Il pane senza glutine è cotto in forno separato?
Is the gluten-free bread baked in a separate oven?
Cross-contamination from shared ovens.
Italy has one of the world's highest rates of diagnosed celiac disease, estimated at 1 in 100 people. The AIC (Associazione Italiana Celiachia) runs a nationwide restaurant certification program — look for their logo at restaurant entrances.