When we dine out or go to the supermarket it is expected that we will be able to find varying options to suit all dietary requirements. Vegetarian, low fat and nut free are all common options within many aspects of catering that we see on a day to day basis. The recent rapid increase of people with gluten intolerance, means this is also fast becoming another necessary option on many menus and food packets, meaning more and more businesses are starting to tap into what can be a very lucrative market.

The Statistics
Coeliac Society of Ireland estimates the gluten free dining out market is worth a potential €100 million to the catering industry, and with an estimated half a million people still undiagnosed this figure will keep rising.

Ten years ago, gluten intolerance levels were as low as one in every 2,500 worldwide, but the latest medical studies state that one in every 100 people in Ireland now suffer from it, and that’s not taking into consideration the people who eat a gluten free diet through choice.

The decision on where a party will dine out is often based on those with special requirements, meaning if you don’t have options to cater to their needs then you may not only lose custom for one person, but also their family and friends.

Who Is Already Involved?
Most supermarkets now have a dedicated gluten free section featuring everything from breads and biscuits to flour and pasta, but the trend has also started to spread to large catering chains and famous chefs. Jamie Oliver and Raymond Blanc are among many who have incorporated new gluten free dishes into their menus, not to mention catering giants such as Starbucks, Greggs and Domino’s who also offer special products.

Expand Your Options 
With the beginning of the New Year and the rapid rise of gluten intolerance diagnoses across Ireland, now is the ideal time to devise new dishes and incorporate them into your menu.

A menu is one of the most important aspects to any restaurant; it will ultimately determine whether or not someone will choose to dine at your establishment or not. Presenting your menus in an attractive way is essential. Our wide selection of table menus and holders come in a variety of designs, colours and materials meaning there is one to suit every style and purpose.

If you are a cafe, bakery or takeaway business, informing your customers of the contents of their food is imperative. Our gluten free labels will make it easy to identify what products are suitable for gluten intolerant customers and we also stock a label that features an extensive list of potential allergens.

Share your favourite gluten free recipes and products by leaving a comment.



By Eva Parks