Where are the multinationals in free-from foods?

This content item was originally published on www.foodnavigator.com, a William Reed online publication.

11-May-2011 - Last updated on 19-Aug-2020 at 07:35 GMT

Related tags South america United states Wheat

'Free from' foods are still a niche sector, but strong growth means multinationals will inevitably get in on the game, says Mintel's Lynn Dornblaser.

Speaking to FoodNavigator.com at Vitafoods, Dornblaser explains the stories behind the market's global growth, such as new regulations on allergy labelling in South America, and labelling of products that have never contained any allergens.

Gluten-free is a global trend, but no- and low-lactose is still of more interest in Europe than in the US.

She draws attention to some interesting new ingredients in lactose-free products, such as spelt and quinoa, which are now being used in beverages.

4 comments

Re spelt

Posted by Lynn Dornblaser, 16 May 2011 - 08:45 GMT

Re spelt: it is often used in products that make an overall health claim, and apparently appeals to consumers who are seeking to reduce certain allergens in their diets, rather than for those consumers who MUST eliminate certain allergens. It is relatively low in gluten, although not gluten free.

Report abuse

Editorial Response

Posted by Editor, FoodNavigator-USA, 13 May 2011 - 15:04 GMT

The spelt comment was made by our interviewee and not our journalist. We appreciate that spelt is not considered gluten-free.

Report abuse

Spelt has never been considered gluten-free

Posted by SE, 13 May 2011 - 14:05 GMT

I am sorry, but this is just an embarrassment this was published. Spelt is not gluten-free and has never been considered to be and the person who was interviewed needs to be corrected IMMEDIATELY before she endangers the public. The journalists for Food Navigator need to be more responsible with the information that they promote.

Report abuse

View more comments