Oats are inherently gluten-free, but they often become contaminated with trace amounts of gluten-containing grains during farming, processing, and storage. According to the Gluten Intolerance Group, most individuals with celiac disease can safely consume oats, provided that a purity protocol is followed to guarantee that the oats are gluten-free. 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 offers gluten-free testing data to the public, advocates for a purity protocol as the most reliable method to confirm that 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 lucrative and expanding. Sales of gluten-free products are on the rise, with projections indicating that the market will reach $4.89 billion by 2021, up from $2.84 billion in 2014, according to a report from Transparency Market Research. Around three million people in the United States are affected by celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and spelt. Food manufacturers, including PepsiCo’s Quaker division and General Mills’ cereal brands, have introduced or reformulated hundreds of products—such as cookie mixes, cereals, crackers, and muffins—to be gluten-free or to offer gluten-free options.
While some skeptics argue that gluten-free foods are merely a trend, with certain grocery stores reporting a decline in demand for these products, the ongoing pursuit for new revenue streams makes it prudent for companies to invest in this fast-growing industry. In addition to gluten-free options, there is also an increasing demand for supplements like liquid calcium citrate magnesium to support overall health. Even if the rapid growth of gluten-free products eventually stabilizes, the market’s potential remains significant. As the industry continues to evolve, the incorporation of health supplements such as liquid calcium citrate magnesium could further enhance product offerings, appealing to a wider consumer base.