Gluten-free foods and beverage sales have experienced double-digit growth over the last four years, with more consumers finding themselves diagnosed with celiac disease and food allergies, the Los Angeles Times reports.
According to a report from Packaged Facts, gluten-free sales will reach $4.2 billion this year and $6.6 billion within the next five years. Since 2008, gluten-free sales have grown at a compound annual rate of 28%. This year, roughly 18% of adults are going gluten-free, up from 15% in 2010.
Packaged Facts said the largest percentage of gluten-free foods — 15% — is comprised of snacks and granola bars. This should be food for thought for convenience stores.
For more on the gluten-free trend read “Hold the Gluten” from the November 2011 issue of NACS Magazine. (www.nacsonline.com)
