Is It Just A Midwest Occurence ?

[burkev]

howdy:

In recent weeks I've been seeing a lot more gluten-free items in the grocery stores. I have the chance to see this in a four county area that has several different chains and independent groceries .

it's a real encouraging developement in availability and pricing of gluten-free items, hopefully making it far more affordable in this extremely tight economy. Even better is some of the mainstream foods going gluten-free.

I'm hoping that this is a reality in all states for all celiacs . There have been times when I have noticed some speciality stores selling gluten-free items at seemingly higher prices than what a regular grocery sells it for. I was wondering what others are seeing regarding this.

shalom, kb

[mushroom]

Yes, I think it might even be worldwide. Even down here! I was at a gluten free expo sponsored by one of our (smaller) supermarket chains and found other bakeries just getting started, a plethora of gluten free foods. I think for some of the food processors it was quite an eye opener to come face to face with their customers and realize how many of them are dealing with other intolerances too, the major ones being dairy and soy. I am hopeful that it might make them look for substitutes to put in their gluten free products to attract a wider market. Every stall I went to my first question was "Does it have any soy?" They just kinda looked at me like, "Aren't you supposed to be worrying about gluten?" :lol:

[Mother of Jibril]

To me it says that there's a huge market for different kinds of suppliers. For example... Glutino uses a lot of corn-based ingredients, so that doesn't work for me Namaste has mixes that are gluten-free, corn-free, dairy-free, and nut-free... perfect! BUT... it would be bad news for someone who can't tolerate rice. Thank goodness I can tolerate soy and coconut. Otherwise, how would I get my "dairy" fix? Sometimes a dairy-free person just needs a little "sour cream" (Tofutti) or "ice cream" (So Delicious) I would avoid soy like the plague if I was intolerant... different customers have different needs.

Incidentally... I'm finding more gluten-free products in the ethnic section. Yeah! Tiger-Tiger and Tasty Bite make some pre-packaged Indian-style sauces that are vegan, soy-free, corn-free, and gluten-free. Much better than going to a restaurant where I have to worry about crumbs from the naan.

[DakotaRN]

I live in rural ND and the nearest stores that have gluten-free foods is 60 miles away and I have noticed that they are stocking more of a variety of gluten-free foods. Yesterday I found gluten-free donuts and chicken patties. I am happy to see a larer variety.