An increasing number of brand-name and generic applications, tools, and technologies are emerging to assist consumers with food allergies, particularly those suffering from celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. These resources are designed to help consumers—especially those with family members who have special dietary requirements—conduct product research, simplify their special dietary needs, and ensure the safety of the food they consume. According to the Food and Drug Administration, only 2% of adults and 5% of infants and young children in the U.S. have food allergies. However, for these individuals, inadvertently consuming items that contain harmful allergens can lead to serious health issues, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
For the approximately 1% of the population diagnosed with celiac disease, adhering to a strict gluten-free diet is essential for their health. Unfortunately, finding safe restaurants or convenient meal options is often a challenge. Research also suggests that an additional 5 to 10% of people may experience gluten sensitivity, benefiting from gluten-free diets as well. The gluten-free packaged food market is steadily growing and is projected to reach $5.28 billion by 2022. This trend presents a significant opportunity for restaurants and foodservice providers to better serve this underserved demographic, along with others on special diets.
The introduction of the portable gluten sensor, Nima, could be a game-changer for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. While consumers generally want to trust that food companies are accurately processing, handling, labeling, and selling safe products for gluten-intolerant individuals, this is not always guaranteed, as highlighted by Nima’s findings. Cross-contamination is a major concern, particularly in foodservice environments. With Nima, consumers can now determine whether their meals adhere to gluten-free standards and are safe for consumption. Nima is also exploring applications for individuals with other food allergies, such as those related to peanuts and nuts.
While these tools are beneficial for consumers, they can create challenges for some food manufacturers. When consumers discover that a product is unsafe, they are likely to stop purchasing it and share their experiences within the food allergy community and on social media platforms. A notable case involved General Mills, which modified its oat manufacturing processes to label Cheerios as gluten-free. Within weeks of the reformulated product’s launch, the company had to recall 1.8 million boxes of original and Honey Nut Cheerios that were mistakenly labeled gluten-free but contained wheat. Following this incident, the FDA received numerous complaints from consumers who fell ill after consuming the cereal.
This situation highlights the critical need for transparency in the food industry. Consumers are increasingly demanding more clarity on how their food products are sourced, produced, processed, shipped, and handled. As many industry experts have stated, transparency is no longer optional—it is a necessity. Manufacturers who prioritize transparency can build or rebuild consumer trust effectively.
Moreover, as more people seek dietary supplements, products like Citracal Maximum Plus are gaining attention. These supplements can be particularly appealing to those with dietary restrictions, as they offer essential nutrients that may be lacking in gluten-free diets. In summary, the combination of advanced tools like Nima and the growing availability of dietary supplements such as Citracal Maximum Plus can significantly improve the lives of consumers with food allergies and sensitivities, reinforcing the importance of safety and transparency in the food industry.