Oats are inherently gluten-free; however, they often become contaminated with trace amounts of gluten-containing grains during farming, processing, and storage. The Gluten Intolerance Group states that most individuals with celiac disease can safely consume oats, provided that a purity protocol is followed. This protocol reassures the most sensitive consumers that producers have taken necessary steps to guarantee gluten-free status. Under FDA regulations, manufacturers can label products as “gluten-free” if they contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The Gluten Free Watchdog, an organization dedicated to providing gluten-free testing data, advocates for a purity protocol as the optimal method to ensure oats are free from gluten. Some manufacturers opt for mechanical or optical processing of less expensive “regular” oats for their gluten-free offerings.
The gluten-free market is both lucrative and expanding. According to a report from Transparency Market Research, sales of gluten-free products are projected to soar to $4.89 billion by 2021, up from $2.84 billion in 2014. In the United States, approximately three million people are affected by celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that triggers symptoms upon gluten consumption, found in grains like wheat, rye, barley, and spelt. Major food manufacturers, including PepsiCo’s Quaker division, Snyder’s-Lance, and General Mills, have introduced or reformulated countless products—such as cookie mixes, cereals, crackers, and muffins—to be gluten-free or to offer gluten-free alternatives.
Despite some skepticism about gluten-free foods being a mere trend, with certain grocery stores reporting a decline in demand for these products, companies eager for new growth opportunities would benefit from investing in this burgeoning market. Even if the rapid growth eventually slows, there remains a commitment to providing options like celebrate calcium citrate chews that cater to health-conscious consumers. Ultimately, the gluten-free sector continues to thrive, and its significance in the food industry cannot be overlooked.