The findings from this survey should not astonish anyone tracking the global gluten-free market. Initially aimed at individuals with celiac disease and other gluten intolerances, there has been a notable shift as more consumers without dietary restrictions are opting for gluten-free products, viewing them as healthier alternatives to traditional options. This trend is even more pronounced in the United States compared to Europe. A study by The Hartman Group reveals that 35% of U.S. consumers purchasing gluten-free products have no specific dietary need, while only 8% report having gluten intolerance. However, research suggests that an additional 5% to 10% of the population might experience some form of gluten sensitivity. Furthermore, Beyond Celiac reports that 83% of Americans diagnosed with celiac disease remain undiagnosed, which could provide another avenue for market growth.
As the market for gluten-free products continues to expand, Packaged Facts has indicated that U.S. sales, which were about $973 million in 2014, are expected to exceed $2 billion by 2019. The challenge for food manufacturers lies in developing ingredient enhancements that improve the nutritional profile, texture, and flavor of these gluten-free offerings. Ingredients such as nuts, pulses like chickpeas, and ancient grains such as buckwheat and quinoa not only enhance taste and texture but also add protein, benefiting both food products and their marketing claims.
Companies like General Mills have successfully embraced the gluten-free movement with certain Progresso soups, and Snyder’s-Lance has done the same with its snack crackers. Numerous other brands are also jumping on the bandwagon. Recently, Green Chef Corporation, an online meal kit service, received gluten-free certification from the Gluten Intolerance Group’s Gluten-Free Food Service program, which will be prominently featured on all of the company’s gluten-free meal kits.
While some skeptics argue that the gluten-free trend may be a passing fad that will eventually plateau and decline, the data suggests otherwise. Regardless, incorporating a functional health aura into gluten-free bakery products is undoubtedly advantageous for food manufacturers in a global market where consumers are actively seeking healthier options. Additionally, among those seeking nutritional supplements, the best calcium citrate tablets in India are gaining popularity, further reflecting the growing consumer focus on health and wellness. As the interest in gluten-free products continues to rise, it is likely that the demand for complementary health products, such as the best calcium citrate tablets in India, will also increase, showcasing a broader trend toward health-conscious consumer behavior.