POSTED JUNE 23, 2021

What is "Gluten?"

Gluten is a protein most commonly found in grains, wheat, barley, and rye. This protein helps food maintain its shape. Think of it as the glue that binds some foods together. In processed foods (snacks, baked goods, etc.), gluten is commonly used as an additive to keep products moist and improve texture. Because of gluten's practical use in processed foods, it can be found in a lot of different foods, even those you wouldn’t immediately assume. Currently, food manufacturers are not required to label products as containing gluten or “gluten free”. Due to wheat being a major allergen, “wheat” is required to be labeled. Usually with a “contains: wheat” statement immediately following the package's ingredient statement. In recent years gluten free lifestyles have become a growing trend. In 2016, the gluten free industry grossed over $15 billion in sales. This growing awareness has led to many new gluten free products as well as restaurants catering with specially marked sections on their menus.

Celiac Disease

The most common reason for starting a gluten free diet is because of a diagnosis of Celiac Disease. Celiac Disease affects up to 1% of people worldwide with a larger proportion being women. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but it does tend to run in families. Someone with a direct family member with the disease has a 1 in 10 risk of developing Celiac at some point in their lifetime. Celiac Disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten. This reaction damages your small intestine and prevents it from functioning properly and absorbing necessary nutrients. Some of the symptoms of this include diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and bloating among others. Serious complications such as coronary artery disease and bowel cancer are all possible if not properly treated. At the moment, the only treatment is a strict “gluten free” diet. Even small amounts of gluten such as crumbs leftover on a cutting board could negatively impact a person with Celiac Disease.

To learn more about Celiac Disease visit, celiac.org

Celiac Disease

Gluten Free Lifestyle

As of 2016, nearly 8% of North Americans follow a gluten free diet. 64% of US customers consider the diet to be a healthy diet even for those without Celiac Disease. This is a common misconception for most. The diet may lead to weight loss, but this tends to be a result of cutting out unhealthy processed foods from your diet and eating more single-ingredient foods. With the rising trend of gluten free options, it is possible to have high-calorie gluten free foods that would negatively impact any weight loss goals you may be seeking. The easiest way to avoid gluten is by sticking to unprocessed foods. Those with even a minor gluten intolerance may experience better digestion, reduced chronic inflammation, and higher energy. Following a strict gluten free diet will require more diligence when food shopping or going out to eat. Read food labels, plan ahead, and don’t be afraid to bring your own food to parties or events. Lots of foods are naturally gluten free and are an easy go-to when preparing your own dishes. Fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are all great options when following a gluten free diet.

Gluten Free Recipes

Chef Cento has chosen some of his favorite gluten free recipes.

Gluten Free Penne with Peas, Prosciutto & Parmesan

A gluten free version of a classic dish that combines peas, salty prosciutto and tender penne in a rich parmesan cream sauce.

Gluten Free Breadcrumb Cod

Delicate cod fillets coated with a light breadcrumb, parmesan and lemon mixture for a delicious gluten-free entrée.

Pesto, Goat Cheese & Sun Dried Tomato Appetizer

Fire up the grill with our Italian-inspired hot dogs and hamburgers. Add as little, or as much, Cento Extra Hot Calabrese Peperoncino to turn up the heat on these grilling favorites.

Gluten Free Penne with Peas, Prosciutto & Parmesan

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Gluten Free Breadcrumb Cod

Delicate cod fillets coated with a light breadcrumb, parmesan and lemon mixture for a delicious gluten-free entrée.

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PESTO, GOAT CHEESE & SUN DRIED TOMATO APPETIZER

Turn your favorite dip into a pizza with our spinach, artichoke and pesto pizza, topped with mozzarella and parmesan.

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Looking for more gluten free recipes? Be sure to check "gluten free" when browsing our entire recipe catalog.