Millennials driving gluten-free demand, says survey
A new survey revealed that one in five 18-34 year olds now have a food intolerance, while a third of consumers are opting to avoid gluten specifically – rising to 40% amongst millennials – as part of a general lifestyle choice or to lose weight.
The research released by Almondy – specialists in gluten-free cakes – highlights the importance of catering for a new generation of diners who are driving the free-from eating out market. With the gluten free market now worth £210 million, the Swedish bakers are calling upon chefs, caterers and operators to take a second look at their offering, particularly during Coeliac Awareness Week (9th – 15th May 2016).
Andrew Ely, Managing Director, Almondy said: “We’ve seen a growing number of consumers avoiding gluten in recent years with our survey revealing three quarters of people have bought a gluten-free product in the last 12 months. The fact is, 1 in 100 people are affected by coeliac disease and Coeliac UK predicts half a million people in the UK are yet to be diagnosed so the demand can only increase."
“Add to this the growing army of people avoiding gluten for lifestyle reasons, particularly amongst millennials who eat out more than any other demographic, and the need for gluten-free menus with high appeal is clear – especially given that Mintel is predicting the market to grow by a further 50% by 2019!”
The research also found that more than a quarter of people would be more likely to order a cake if it was gluten-free meaning a coeliac friendly dessert offering can boost profits and drive incremental hot drink sales.
