The British food industry has been urged to do more to cater for those with acute food allergies.
According to Coeliac UK, an independent charity for those with coeliac disease – which is defined as an intolerance to gluten products – there has been an increasing number of people diagnosed with the condition, with 600,000 people in the UK currently effected, the Daily Mail reports.
In response, TV chef Phil Vickery, who is the charity ambassador, has called on the industry to alert themselves to the needs of sufferers.
As well food manufacturing firms ensuring that they are able to offer gluten-free alternatives for customers, those involved in the food processing sector are also requested to ensure they operate safe handling practices, which do not cross-contaminate food.
Sarah Sleet, chief executive of Coeliac UK, told the news provider: ”People with coeliac disease want to eat out more often and are ready and willing to spend their money, if only they felt more confident about gluten-free provision.”
With a burgeoning national food industry, the UK has the potential to become a global leader in allergy-sensitive products, which could bring welcome business and boost production.
