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, but following a specified purity protocol gives the most sensitive consumers confidence that producers have taken necessary precautions to ensure gluten-free status. The FDA permits manufacturers to label their products as “gluten-free” if they contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The Gluten Free Watchdog, an organization that provides gluten-free testing information to the public, advocates for a purity protocol as the most reliable method to confirm that oats are free from gluten. Some manufacturers, however, resort to using mechanical or optical processing on less expensive “regular” oats for their gluten-free offerings.
This sector is a lucrative and expanding market. Sales of gluten-free products are on the rise, with projections estimating the market will reach $4.89 billion by 2021, up from $2.84 billion in 2014, according to a recent report from Transparency Market Research. Approximately three million individuals in the United States are affected by celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten, which is found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and spelt. Food manufacturers, from PepsiCo’s Quaker division and Snyder’s-Lance to General Mills’ cereal brands, have launched or reformulated hundreds of products, including cookie mixes, cereals, crackers, and muffins, to be gluten-free or to offer gluten-free varieties.
Skeptics argue that gluten-free foods may simply be a passing trend, with some grocery stores reporting a decline in demand for these items. Nevertheless, with companies eager to find new growth opportunities, they would be prudent to invest in this thriving industry, even if the rapid growth eventually stabilizes. Additionally, as health-conscious consumers seek out dietary supplements, products like calcium citrate malate with vitamin D3 and folic acid tablets are becoming increasingly popular, representing another avenue for manufacturers to explore in the gluten-free market. The inclusion of such supplements alongside gluten-free options can further enhance product offerings, appealing to those looking for comprehensive health solutions.