ATLANTA – In response to customers who have made requests for more gluten-free/sensitive options on the menu, Chick-fil-A announced the addition of a new gluten-free bun.

The gluten-free bun is made with ancient grains quinoa and amaranth, enriched with vitamins and minerals and lightly sweetened with molasses and raisins. The gluten-free bun rolls out nationwide following successful tests in three U.S. cities in 2016.

With roughly 18 million Americans having a gluten sensitivity or preference, Chick-fil-A says it is one of the few quick-service restaurants to offer a gluten-free bun.

"We know our customers are looking for more gluten-sensitive alternatives. They asked, and we listened," said Leslie Neslage, senior consultant of menu development at Chick-fil-A. "We heard positive feedback in test markets that the bun tastes better than some other gluten-free breads. That's because instead of rice flower, we've made the bun with more premium ingredients like quinoa and amaranth. Our hope is that the gluten-free bun addition opens up options for gluten-sensitive customers to enjoy more of our menu."

In test markets, the gluten-free bun was most commonly ordered with the Grilled Chicken Sandwich and the Grilled Chicken Deluxe Sandwich. The new bun has 150 calories and costs an additional $1.15.

Chick-fil-A kitchens are not gluten-free. Therefore, the buns will be served individually packaged and guests will be required to assemble their own sandwiches to reduce risk of cross-contamination.