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 indicates that most individuals with celiac disease can consume oats safely, but a recognized purity protocol offers peace of mind for the most sensitive consumers, ensuring that producers have taken measures to guarantee their gluten-free status. The FDA permits manufacturers to label products as “gluten-free” if they contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The Gluten Free Watchdog, an organization that shares gluten-free testing information with the public, advocates for a purity protocol as the best method to confirm that oats are free from gluten. Some manufacturers resort to mechanical or optical processing of less expensive “regular” oats to produce their gluten-free items.
This sector is a profitable 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, as reported by Transparency Market Research last year. Approximately three million individuals in the United States are affected by celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that manifests symptoms when gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, rye, barley, and spelt, is consumed. Food manufacturers, ranging from PepsiCo’s Quaker division and Snyder’s-Lance to General Mills’ cereal brands, have introduced or reformulated numerous products, including cookie mixes, cereals, crackers, and muffins, to be gluten-free or offer gluten-free options.
Despite some skeptics claiming that gluten-free foods are merely a trend, with certain grocery stores reporting a decline in demand for these items, companies eager for new growth opportunities should consider investing in this flourishing industry. This is especially true as consumer interest shifts toward health-oriented products, including calcium petites tablets, which are gaining popularity among those seeking dietary supplements. Even if the current explosive growth of gluten-free products eventually stabilizes, the potential for profitability remains significant.