Market for gluten-free products continues to rise as sales grow

Gluten-free food producers are being urged to capitalise on a surge in export sales opportunities, notably in Britain and Spain, according to Bord Bia market analysis.

In the latest edition of the Bord Bia trade magazine Food Alert, London-based Bord Bia marketer Sarah O’Connell notes that the market for gluten-free goods in the UK is at 12 million consumers and has grown by 120% in the past five years. Citing a separate study by UK trade group Gluten-Free Solutions, she says the sales growth is coming from wheat “avoiders” as well as those with severe allergies, and those with intolerances.

“Driving this trend is a growing segment of the market choosing gluten-free as part of a lifestyle choice (as opposed to those with severe allergies and intolerances), with celebrities like Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Aniston and Novac Djokovic all now promoting wheat-free and gluten-free diets,” said Sarah O’Connell.