Special diet… gluten-free. Three ideas to welcome gluten-free customers in

Gluten-free

Gluten-free food is big business, worth £835 million a year. As well as people who need to follow a gluten-free diet due to coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, there are many others who choose to, for the perceived health benefi ts. Here are some new ideas to inspire customers

Breakfast

The fi rst meal of the day can sometimes be a bit of a minefi eld for gluten-free options with many cereals and bread off the menu. So, why not off er a protein-rich frittata, packed with mushrooms, tomatoes and bacon? Galettes – pancakes made with buckwheat – could also be a delicious alternative for customers. They can be served with sweet or savoury toppings. Tapioca pancakes are an option as well.

It’s estimated that at least 10%

of UK customers are following a gluten-free diet* Lunch

Bread is the most purchased glutenfree product, however, it can be expensive, so think about off ering alternatives to sandwiches**. Try tarts and quiches made with gluten-free pastry – ready-to-roll or pre-made cases are easy to fi nd at your local wholesaler. Customers may also enjoy large interesting salads – beans, pulses or rice with roasted squash, chorizo, spinach and tomatoes would catch their eye.

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Dinner

Gluten-free evening meals are fairly simple to achieve. Meat or fi sh with veggies work well, just be wary of any sauces. A summer vegetable tagine with quinoa or rice is full of fl avour. Desserts can be trickier, so go for something meringue-based such as mini pavlovas. Personalise yours with seasonal fruit and fl avoured cream for an impressive end to the meal.