What is gluten?

What is gluten?

Gluten is the name for proteins found in wheat, barley, rye and all products made from them.

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a genetic condition that damages the lining of the small intestine. Many nutrients from foods we eat are absorbed in the small intestine. When it’s damaged, we are not able to fully absorb them, leading to nutrient deficiency and poor health.

What is gluten sensitivity?

People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NGCS) experience many of the same symptoms as a person with celiac disease

What is the treatment?

The only treatment for celiac disease and NGCS is to eat a gluten-free diet.

How do I know if I have sensitivity to gluten?

 If you suspect eating gluten is a problem for you, talk to your physician.

What does gluten free mean?

Gluten free is the term used for many packaged products to describe foods that are safe for individuals with gluten-related disorders. Products labeled gluten free must meet FDA standards of less than 20 parts per million of gluten. 

What can I eat?

Reading labels is a necessary skill to identify gluten in foods. Additionally, there are many fresh food that are inherently gluten free, including plain meat, poultry, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables and some dairy products.

Where can I find foods without gluten at Lunds & Byerlys?

Look for the words “gluten free” on product labels, and statements certifying products as gluten free from organizations such as the Gluten Intolerance Group Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), the Celiac Sprue Association (CSA), and the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA)

What about deli salads?

Our deli kitchens and production facilities are not gluten-free environments. We have carefully evaluated the ingredients in our deli salads and have a list of salads made without gluten ingredients posted in the delis. These salads cannot be called gluten free since they weren’t prepared in a gluten-free facility and are in a case with other gluten containing salads. Consuming products prepared in a non-gluten free facility can pose risks.  Consult your physician regarding this issue if you have questions on what gluten free foods best support your dietary needs.

Always check product label information before purchasing.

Be a label reader!

Be a label reader!

Wheat free doesn’t mean gluten free, since the product may contain barley, rye or other ingredients that contain gluten. Government standards require that specific allergens, including wheat, be clearly identified on the label of packaged products. Wheat can appear either in parentheses in the ingredient list or in a separate “contains” statement following the ingredient list.

Where can I get more information?

Ask the FoodE Expert at your Lunds & Byerlys store for help identifying gluten free products.

This information is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your doctor about your specific condition.