1 in 12 Australians currently avoid wheat or gluten in their diet, and 1 in 70 are living with coeliac disease. Therefore, it’s essential to offer a range of gluten-free meals on your menu. But what is coeliac disease? And how can you make sure your dishes are truly gluten-free?
What is coeliac disease?
Coeliac disease is caused by the immune system reacting to gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Symptoms include gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, vitamin deficiencies and more.
Coeliac disease can affect anyone. It’s estimated that 1 in 70 Australians have coeliac disease but of these, around 80% are undiagnosed. And even more people avoid gluten for other reasons, such as having a milder gluten intolerance, or for perceived health benefits.
How can I offer a gluten-free menu?
Gluten-containing ingredients are often used in packaged foods, sauces, dressings, gravies and baked goods. This can make it difficult to produce a free-from version of a standard meal on your menu.
It’s important to check all the ingredients and be careful to avoid cross-contamination during food preparation and cooking. By using separate utensils, chopping boards and cooking oil you can ensure your meals are truly gluten-free.
Easy gluten-free meal solutions
Our range includes gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan main meals, burgers and bites. What’s more, these are all certified by Coeliac Australia, so offering free-from meals has never been easier. These tasty products can be simply prepared and adapted to appeal to a wider audience by adding meat or fish. Try adding prawns to our delicious gluten-free Vegan Penang Curry or pulled pork to our Butter Bean, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew.
Find out more about our gluten-free range by requesting a brochure. Or, contact Fran Harper, Head of Sales & Marketing – Global: [email protected]