Gluten-Free Alternatives to Crisps and Similar Snacks

Discover the best gluten-free alternatives to crisps, from lentil and chickpea snacks to kale chips and roasted nuts. Delicious, healthy and naturally gluten-free snack ideas available in the UK.

Whether you’ve had to go gluten-free for health reasons or simply want to make your snacking habits a bit healthier, finding alternatives to traditional crisps can sometimes feel tricky.

 Fortunately, there’s now an abundance of gluten-free snacks available in UK shops, all with that same satisfying crunch we crave. 

Here are some of the best gluten-free crisp alternatives to enjoy at home, on the go, or with your favourite drink.

1. Lentil and Chickpea Crisps

Brands like Eat Real, Propercorn and Hippeas have transformed gluten-free snacking. Their lentil, chickpea and quinoa-based crisps are naturally gluten-free and available in irresistible flavours like sweet chilli, sea salt and cheese & onion. They’re also higher in protein and fibre, making them a smarter, more filling choice.

2. Rice Cakes and Corn Cakes

Light, versatile and naturally gluten-free, rice and corn cakes can be topped with almost anything, hummus, avocado, or even peanut butter for a sweet-savory twist. Kallo and Snack a Jacks offer clearly labelled gluten-free options in most UK supermarkets.

3. Vegetable Crisps

Made from parsnips, beetroot, carrots or sweet potatoes, vegetable crisps are a colourful and delicious alternative to standard crisps. 

Just check the ingredients for gluten-containing seasonings. Tyrrells, Kettle Chips and many supermarket own brands now have gluten-free versions.

4. Popcorn

Popcorn is a naturally gluten-free snack, but some flavoured types can contain gluten, so it’s always worth checking. Go for plain, lightly salted or sweet versions, or season your own at home with paprika, herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savoury twist.

5. Roasted Nuts and Seeds

Roasted nuts and seeds make brilliant gluten-free snacks that deliver both crunch and flavour. Roast almonds, cashews or pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt and herbs, or try shop-bought options from Graze or Whitworths for convenience.

6. Homemade Kale Chips

Kale chips are one of the best healthy gluten-free snacks you can make yourself. Tear kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, toss with olive oil and salt, and bake at 180°C for 10–15 minutes until crispy. You can add chilli flakes, garlic powder or nutritional yeast for extra punch.

7. Seaweed Snacks

Crispy roasted seaweed sheets are a popular snack across Asia and are now widely available in UK supermarkets. They’re naturally gluten-free and offer a salty, umami flavour that’s surprisingly moreish. Itsu and Yutaka make great versions.

8. Baked Chickpeas and Broad Beans

For a protein-packed bite, try roasted chickpeas or broad beans. You can make them at home or pick up ready-to-eat packs from Brave, The Happy Snack Company or Lovingly Made. They come in tempting flavours such as BBQ, salt & vinegar, and sweet chilli.

9. Gluten-Free Crackers and Popped Snacks

From oatcakes to seed thins, the gluten-free cracker aisle has never been better stocked. Look out for Nairn’s Gluten-Free Oatcakes, Ryvita Gluten-Free or Schär’s Crispbreads. These pair beautifully with cheese, dips or even a few slices of cured ham.

Nowadays, going gluten-free no longer means missing out on your favourite snacks. With a huge range of delicious, gluten-free crisp alternatives, from baked pulses to seaweed crisps, it’s never been easier to satisfy your cravings while staying gluten-free, or making sure Christmas party guests don't feel left out.

Next time you’re stocking up for a film night, picnic or a Chrstmas party, pop a few of these into your basket. 

Catering for Coeliac Guests – From Cafés to Luxury Hotels

With Coeliac disease affecting something in the order of 1 in 100 people in the UK, catering for gluten-free needs isn’t just a nice extra, it’s a vital necessity. 

From the smallest café to the grandest hotel restaurant, creating a safe and welcoming dining experience for Coeliac guests is both a moral responsibility and a smart business move.

Understanding Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease isn't a food fad or lifestyle choice. It is a serious autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

Even trace amounts can cause significant harm, leading to long-term health issues like malnutrition, osteoporosis, and even infertility. For someone with Coeliac disease, “gluten-free” must mean exactly that.

The Importance of Going Beyond the Label

Simply offering a few gluten-free options isn't really not enough if there is a genuine risk of cross-contamination. For many Coeliacs, eating out can feel like navigating a minefield, one misinformed staff member or one contaminated chopping board can lead to days or even weeks of illness.

Whether you run a local tearoom or a Michelin-starred hotel kitchen, ensuring your venue is truly Coeliac-safe means taking food safety and staff training seriously.

Tips for Safely Catering to Coeliac Guests

1. Staff Training Is Essential

Everyone, from the front-of-house team to the pot washers, needs to understand what Coeliac disease is and how to prevent cross-contamination. Servers should be confident in explaining which dishes are safe and what procedures are in place.

2. Dedicated Prep Areas and Utensils

If you’re serious about serving Coeliac guests, set up separate gluten-free prep areas, utensils, toasters, and fryers. Flour particles can linger in the air or cling to surfaces, so thorough cleaning routines are key.

3. Clear and Accurate Labelling

Menus should clearly label gluten-free options and be backed up by a kitchen that understands what that means. Avoid vague terms like “low gluten” or “gluten-friendly”, which can mislead or confuse.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

It’s better to explain honestly that you can’t safely cater for Coeliac disease than to serve something risky. Transparency builds trust.

5. Offer Variety

Too often, gluten-free diners are left with just one option, usually a rather boring salad. Be creative. Think risottos, naturally gluten-free world cuisines like Mexican or Indian, or gluten-free baked goods. Partnering with local gluten-free bakers can also boost your menu.

6. Get Accredited

Consider working towards Coeliac UK’s Gluten Free Accreditation. It’s a mark of trust that tells customers you take their dietary needs seriously and can open doors to new business opportunities.

Benefits for Your Business

Catering properly for Coeliac disease isn’t just about one customer — it’s about the group they bring with them. Families, friends, and colleagues all make dining decisions together, and many will favour places where their Coeliac loved one can eat safely.

Venues that take this seriously often find they build a loyal customer base, earn glowing reviews, and stand out in an increasingly health-conscious market.

Catering for Coeliacs is about more than ticking a box. It’s about empathy, education, and a commitment to making dining out safe and enjoyable for everyone. 

Whether you’re serving lattes and lunches in a village café or curating a five-course tasting menu in a luxury hotel, getting gluten-free right is a win-win for your guests and your reputation.

https://www.coeliac.org.uk

Got Food Allergies? Then You Need The Allergy & Free from Show

The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free returns to Olympia this month, June 21st - 22nd. 

They are re-locating to the iconic Grand Hall to cater for increased demand, the UK's biggest event dedicated to everything free from will host an impressive line-up including the 'Queen of Gluten Free' Becky Excell, 'The Doctor's Kitchen' Dr Rupy Aujla, Hollyoaks and Corrie actress Stephanie Davis, plus siblings Tyler and Lewis West.

The unmissable two day showcase will see over 15,000 attendees discover everything they need to know about free from, with learning experiences, interactive features and fun activities for the whole family, plus a packed agenda featuring almost 50 speakers, including the biggest names in the industry, across two stages and a live kitchen.

NEW Show highlights include a Mindfulness Zone sponsored by Arla LactoFREE with practical mindfulness sessions and Allergies in the Home in partnership with Allergy UK, which showcases household solutions for allergy sufferers, in addition to a fun and interactive Family Trail. These complement the event's popular features such as Balmonds Skin Clinic with advice, Q&As and product demonstrations, plus the Family Zone, Cafés sponsored by NOMO, the Meet and Greet area and a VIP Blogger Lounge sponsored by Kirsty's.

With more exhibitors than ever before, The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free will be connecting thousands of people with notable brands including Dr Schar, TESCO, M&S, Warburtons Gluten Free, EcoEgg, Balmonds, Olsson Hair Care, Robert Thomas, Creative Nature, Elave Skincare, plus new emerging exciting entrants in the free from space.

Timetable of Speakers

Saturday June 21st

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free - (fireside chats, panel discussions and clinics)

Featuring: Morgan McKenzie Moore (Host), Professor Adam Fox, Ruth Holroyd, Becky Excell, Sarah Howells, Ali Walsh, Lorna Gardner, Julianne Ponan MBE, Penny Hamilton, Jo Greenslade, Lucy Gulland, Nadim Ednan-Laperouse and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

Featuring: Steve Walpole, Sarah Howells, Adam Edwards, Jamie Robinson, Kate Lancaster, Francesca Della Penna and Dr Rupy Aujla.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

Featuring: Dr Jose Costa (Host), Nic Wilson, Ready2React, Dr Glenis Scadding, Catherine Hobson, Simon Williams, Tracey Dunn, Ben Freedman, Betsy Craig and Asal Shirazi BEM.

Sunday June 22nd

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free - (fireside chats, panel discussions and clinics)

Featuring: Morgan McKenzie Moore (Host), Stephanie Davis, Dan Kelly, Kirsty Henshaw, Lucy Upton, Dr Karen Murphy, Jo Greenslade, Amena Warner, Dr Chloe Paco-Gleeson, Tyler West and Lewis West.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

Featuring: Nathalie Newman, Dale Pinnock 'The Medicinal Chef', Becky Excell, Julianne Ponan MBE and Eva Humphries.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

Featuring: Dr Jose Costa (Host), Goldie Putrym, Paula Benedi, Stacey Forsey, Amy Langfield and Ali Walsh.

Annie Bennett, Event Manager said: "It is really exciting to see the show continuously develop in line with the evolving community, and I know the crowds will be impressed by the stellar line-up we have assembled across the stages and live kitchen for 2025. The growth in demand from both visitors and exhibitors means we are moving into The Grand Hall this year, a large, ambient event space with stunning Victorian architecture."

The opening times of the show are 9am – 5pm on Saturday 21st June and 10am – 4pm on Sunday 22nd June, with no entry after 2pm on Sunday. Tickets are still available with a 50% OFF limited time offer until 3rd June using code '1MONTH'.

Allergy & Free From Show #allergyandfreefromshow

The Allergy & Free From Show is where people with allergies can gather to find thousands of free from products, from household names to exciting new start-ups. With learning experiences, interactive features and fun activities for the whole family.

Event Highlights Video 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ix5QW8EZ4-k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allergyfreefromshow

https://allergyshow.co.uk

Delightful Gluten-Free Desserts: A British Guide

When embarking on a gluten-free lifestyle, it might seem daunting to find delicious dessert options that don't compromise on taste or texture. 

Fear not, as we’ve rounded up some delightful gluten-free dessert recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. 

These recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a treat.

1. Flourless Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)

200g unsalted butter

250g caster sugar

6 large eggs, separated

A pinch of salt

Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a 23cm springform tin and line the base with baking paper.

Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.

Whisk the egg yolks with half of the sugar until pale and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with the salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar, whisking until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three batches, ensuring it's well combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cake has risen and a crust forms on top.

Let the cake cool in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

2. Lemon Polenta Cake

Ingredients:

200g ground almonds

200g fine polenta (cornmeal)

1 ½ tsp baking powder (ensure it's gluten-free)

225g unsalted butter, softened

225g caster sugar

3 large eggs

Zest of 2 lemons

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a 23cm round cake tin and line with baking paper.

Mix the ground almonds, polenta, and baking powder in a bowl.

In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in the lemon zest, then fold in the almond and polenta mixture. Finally, mix in the lemon juice.

Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients:

2 large egg whites

150g caster sugar

200g desiccated coconut

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan). Line a baking tray with baking paper.

In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whisk until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Gently fold in the desiccated coconut and vanilla extract until well combined.

Using a tablespoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking tray, spacing them a few centimetres apart.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the macaroons are golden brown on the edges and slightly firm to the touch.

Allow to cool on the baking tray before transferring to a wire rack.

4. Raspberry Pavlova

Ingredients:

4 large egg whites

250g caster sugar

1 tsp white wine vinegar

1 tsp cornflour (ensure it’s gluten-free)

300ml double cream

200g fresh raspberries

Icing sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan). Line a baking tray with baking paper and draw a 20cm circle on it.

Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, whisking well between each addition until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Fold in the white wine vinegar and cornflour.

Spoon the meringue mixture onto the circle on the baking paper, spreading it to form a nest with higher edges.

Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely.

Once cool, whip the double cream until soft peaks form, then spread over the meringue base.

Top with fresh raspberries and dust with icing sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Living gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to miss out on mouth-watering desserts. These recipes are not only free from gluten but also full of flavour and texture. Whether you prefer a rich chocolate indulgence, a zesty lemon treat, a coconut delight, or a fruity pavlova, there's something here to satisfy every craving. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful desserts!

The Joy of Gluten-Free Baking and Cooking

In recent years, gluten-free diets have gained immense popularity, not just among those with coeliac disease but also among individuals who seek a healthier lifestyle or experience gluten sensitivity.

Gluten-free baking and cooking might seem daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and techniques, it can be both enjoyable and rewarding. 

This blog post aims to guide you through the essentials of gluten-free baking and cooking, offering tips, recipes, and inspiration to help you master the craft.

Understanding Gluten and Its Alternatives

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It provides elasticity and structure to baked goods, which can be challenging to replicate without it. However, there are numerous gluten-free alternatives available today:

Flours: Rice flour, almond flour, coconut flour, and buckwheat flour are popular choices. Each type of flour has unique properties, so combining them often yields the best results.

Binders: Since gluten helps bind ingredients, alternatives like xanthan gum, guar gum, and psyllium husk powder can be used to mimic this effect.

Starches: Cornstarch, potato starch, and tapioca starch can improve the texture of gluten-free baked goods, making them lighter and more cohesive.

Essential Tips for Gluten-Free Baking

Mix Your Flours: Using a combination of different gluten-free flours can replicate the texture and flavour of wheat flour. For example, mixing rice flour with a bit of almond flour and potato starch can create a well-rounded base for many recipes.

Measure Precisely: Gluten-free flours can be more temperamental than wheat flour. Accurate measurements are crucial to achieving the desired consistency and texture.

Let It Rest: Allow your gluten-free batter or dough to rest before baking. This gives the flours time to hydrate and helps improve the final texture.

Use Bindings: Add a binder like xanthan gum or psyllium husk to your recipe to prevent crumbling and to improve the texture.

Experiment and Adjust: Don't be afraid to experiment with different flour blends and ratios. Gluten-free baking is as much an art as it is a science.

Delicious Gluten-Free Recipes to Try

1. Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas

2 eggs

1/3 cup melted coconut oil

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a loaf tin.

In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add eggs, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Allow the bread to cool before slicing.

2. Gluten-Free Pizza Dough

Ingredients:

2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon xanthan gum

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

1 cup warm water

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, and salt.

Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and press it into your desired pizza shape/s.

Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, then add your favourite toppings and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the toppings are cooked to your liking.

The Joy of Gluten-Free Cooking

Gluten-free cooking extends beyond baking. Here are a few tips to help you create delicious and nutritious gluten-free meals:

Focus on Naturally Gluten-Free Foods: Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, and legumes are all naturally gluten-free. Base your meals around these foods for a balanced diet.

Explore Gluten-Free Grains: Quinoa, millet, buckwheat, and amaranth are excellent substitutes for gluten-containing grains.

Read Labels Carefully: Gluten can hide in unexpected places, such as sauces, soups, and processed foods. Always read labels to ensure products are gluten-free.

Embrace Fresh Herbs and Spices: These can add a burst of flavour to your dishes without the need for gluten-containing seasonings or sauces.

Gluten-free baking and cooking might require a bit of extra effort and experimentation, but the results are well worth it. With a variety of gluten-free flours, binders, and naturally gluten-free foods available, you can create delicious meals and treats that everyone will enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and start exploring the wonderful world of gluten-free cuisine. Happy gluten free cooking!

Free-from Disruptor brand 'We Love Cake' Gets major Makeover to Kick Off 2024

Bells of Lazonby's iconic We Love Cake has undergone a branding and packaging overhaul in a bid to excite loyal shoppers and attract a younger demographic in 2024.

The rebrand is backed by a new campaign 'Baked in Joy' that will celebrate those who have found We Love Cake after diagnosis of Coeliac disease (such as my wife) or a newfound lifestyle choice, and it'll be deployed through digital channels.

The new-look packs are to be on shelf in supermarkets from later this month and in-foodservice during this year.

To date the free-from bakery, based in Lazonby Cumbria, has been noted for its disruptive and innovative take on the category, recreating iconic, household favourites in vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free varieties. 

We Love Cake has seen rapid growth in recent years showing a staggering growth of in excess of  370% since 2020 in value and volume.

Operating in UK Frozen Foodservice, Australian and UK retail, it's on track with its mission to become the biggest brand in value sales in Free From Sweet Bakery in the UK having achieved this already in Australia. 

Initially launched in 2012 in UK foodservice, the brand became a success due to its quality, taste credentials and allergen integrity.

Having been a disruptor to UK retail in 2019, We Love Cake was selling under 1,000 packs per week, by the end of 2023 it sold over 25,000 packs in UK retail in one week.

The rebrand aims to be a step change for We Love Cake. In-market sales estimated for 2024 are believed to be worth over 4M Australian Dollars in Australia and over £7M in the UK.

Head of Brand and Marketing, Josh Boydell-Smith, said: “The rebrand and marketing campaign 'Baked in Joy' is the absolutely perfect opportunity to celebrate those who have found the brand through Coeliac disease or lifestyle choice, it aims to normalise free-from sweet bakery and remind people how good it can taste.

“We are rebranding to drive growth and gain further distribution, but mainly to better tell our our story and open ourselves up to younger shoppers. Five years ago we looked bold and new on shelf, since others have followed, we realised that it was time for a refresh and to stand out once again.”

Speaking on the brands rapid growth, Josh added: “Based out of Lazonby in Cumbria, we pride ourselves on being a brand that's punching well above our weight. To date our success has been driven by innovation and strong distribution, we now have 33 lines in our portfolio across the UK and Australia spanning frozen, ambient and chilled foods." 

Josh went on to say: “Our branding needed to support our presence in the free-from category, it was time for us to shake things up, and remind our shoppers why they really do love cake.”

Bells of Lazonby will be investing in digital markerting that will reach over five million consumers with the new 'Baked in Joy' campaign. The product rebrand is going to be heaviily supported by PR and social media outreach though all operating channels.

FACTFILE: Back in 202 The We Love Cake journey began when second-generation family business owner, Michael Bell, took the decision to try to live as a coeliac for a week. 

Michael was totally dissatisfied with anything he ate, not least the free from cakes he reluctantly attempted.

By only day two of the week-log trial he decided to build a dedicated Gluten, wheat, and milk free bakery.  After years of honing gluten free bakery, he introduced We Love Cake to the UK foodservice in 2012.

We Love Cake are registered with Coeliac UK and declared as suitable for those with coeliac disease.

We love Cake is sold across the UK in Major Retail, Cafés and restaurants and Australia. Constantly re-working and revisiting the recipes, in 2019 We Love Cake rebranded and reduced sugar content across its portfolio.

For more information: https://we-love-cake.co.uk/delicious-gluten-free-cakes/ or follow on Instagram @welovecakeuk.

Asda earns 86 product awards in Free From Awards

Asda was awarded a very impressive 86 product awards at this year’s Free From Food Awards including 4 Golds, 27 Silvers, 36 Bronze, 19 Commended as well as the top accolade of the night, Free From Retailer of the Year.

The awards mark a celebration of Asda’s own brand Free From products, which strive to offer great quality and value for all customers. 

Judges were reportedly wowed by Asda’s impressive range, stating: “Between their vegan and their free from ranges Asda now offer a really impressive selection of foods for the allergic community - and at really competitive prices while still maintaining the quality of their products. A massive step towards including those on free from diets in the general community.”

Asda Free From, Chow Mein Stir-Fry Sauce

Free From: Gluten Free, Soya Free

Retail: £0.50

Asda’s Free From, Chow Mein Stir-Fry Sauce, with a hint of garlic and warming ginger is bound to spice up a mid-week dinner. Awarded Gold, this product was described by the judging panel as: “Lovely colour, aroma, consistency & flavour profile. A great balance of flavours with the perfect spice heat at the end. Very impressive to be gluten free, sesame free and soya free. And the price point is equally impressive”.

Asda Free From, Salad Cream

Free From: Egg Free

Retail: £1.10

The perfect condiment to accompany a summer salad in this hot weather, Asda Free From Salad Cream was awarded Gold by the expert panel, described as:

“This tastes just like the real thing. Impressive that this delivers the same flavour and consistency whilst being gluten free, milk free and egg free! Great price. A credible & accessible alternative”.

Asda Free From Extra Special, 8 Sicilian Orange & Belgian Dark Chocolate Cookies

Free From: Gluten

Retail: £2.00

Looking to brighten up your coffee break? made using an all-butter recipe and studded with Belgian chocolate this gold awarded product really is an extra special treat!

Asda Extra Special, 12 Classic Pork Chipolata Sausages

Free From: Gluten Free

Retail: £3.25

The perfect banger on your BBQ, full breakfast or roll to go, Asda’s Extra Special Classic Pork Chipolata sausages are gold awarded by Free From Food Awards panel. As well as great quality, customers can also pick up a bargain, two packs for only £5

Asda Free From, Vanilla Flavoured Ice Cream

Free From: Gluten, Milk and Soya

Retail: £2.20

Everyone can cool down this summer and enjoy Asda Free From Vanilla Flavour Ice Cream.

 OMV! Deliciously Vegan By Asda,  Burger Mayo

Free From: Egg

Retail: £1.50

The perfect accompaniment to BBQ season, this 100% vegan burger mayo with flavours of gherkin, American style mustard and tomato impressed judges and won Silver at the Free From Food Awards. It’s sure to be a winner with all guests at summer gatherings.

OMV! Deliciously Vegan By Asda Saag Masala Cooking Sauce

Retail: £2.00

Everyone can enjoy curry night with OMV! Deliciously Vegan Saag Masala Cooking Sauce. A tomato, spinach and creamed coconut sauce with a blend of spices, guests will be left wanting more!

Asda Free From 4 White Rolls

Free From: Gluten, Milk and Egg

Retail: £1.75

BBQ, picnics or mid-week lunch, enjoy all the flavour without missing out with Silver awarded Free From White Rolls.

Shop in store and online at asda.com.

(That's Food and Drink says: "It's good to know that major retailers are working so hard to provide good quality Free From Foods. My wife needs to avoid gluten and soya, so we are aware of the Free From struggle. Well done, Asda!)

Two Unique New Brown Rice Crackers from Clearspring

Japanese and organic fine foods specialist Clearspring has added two exciting new gluten free, authentic, vegan and organic Japanese Brown Rice Cracker flavours to its award-winning snacks range: Black Pepper & Tamari and Green Nori & Tamari.

The new Organic Japanese Brown Rice Crackers are made using only the finest quality organic wholefood ingredients. The Organic Black Pepper & Tamari is perfectly balanced with tamari and a hint of black sesame seeds. The Organic Green Nori & Tamari is enhanced with the umami found in tamari, the unique taste of green nori, one of the most popular sea vegetables, and an added hint of black sesame seeds.

Maria Dawson, Director at Clearspring said about the new additions: “The majority of Japanese and Asian rice crackers are made using white rice and usually contain fish stock, added sugar and MSG. It took over a year to perfect these two new and unique recipes, which deliver on wholegrain crunch and taste whilst being minimally processed using organic wholefood ingredients.

“Our Organic Brown Rice Crackers offer consumers a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of organic wholegrain brown rice and are a wholesome plant-based food perfect for any occasion.”

Clearspring's Organic Japanese Brown Rice Crackers are made by third-generation family producers in Japan's Hyogo prefecture, where they have been perfecting the art of rice cracker production since 1952. They are truly artisanal in their approach, employing only traditional methods and expertise to ensure each batch is perfectly baked.

Alongside the two new flavour additions, Clearspring's Organic Japanese Brown Rice Cracker range includes two original flavours: award-winning Organic Black Sesame and Organic Whole Sesame.

All four Clearspring's Organic Japanese Brown Rice Crackers are:

Organic

Vegan

Gluten Free

A source of Fibre

MSG-free

Non-GMO

Made in Japan

Available in 40g pack size

Ensure your Christmas feasts do not leave anyone out!

With at least nine million people at risk of an adverse reaction to their Christmas dinner Genius Foods, the UK’s leading gluten-free brand, and Lactofree®, the UK’s only lactose-free dairy range have teamed up to ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious festive feast.

As many as one in 100 people in the UK are gluten intolerant and research also shows that up to 15% of people in the UK are estimated to be lactose intolerant. Considering there are over 60 million people in the UK, that is a lot of Christmas dinner guests with intolerances!

Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, founder of Genius Foods and author of ‘How to Cook for Food Allergies’ said: "Cooking for people with intolerances can be a confusing and daunting task but we have put together some recipes to make sure everyone is catered for. Even if you aren’t lactose or gluten intolerant cutting them out is not dangerous to your health. Some people find that just cutting down on these ingredients can actually make them feel less bloated and more energetic, which following a Christmas dinner is almost unheard of!"

But shopping for these dinner guests can seem daunting. Sian Porter, Consultant Dietitian offers a few top tips for surviving Christmas with a lactose or gluten intolerance:

“When in the supermarket you should take extra time to read food labels – especially as some items such as mince pies are only eaten seasonally, you may be unfamiliar with their ingredients. These often contain both lactose and gluten, derived from dairy and wheat, barley or rye respectively. However, there are gluten free mince pies available. If treating yourself to a creamy homemade desert make it with lactose free dairy to ensure you can all experience the delights of Christmas without the worry of paying for it afterwards.”

“If you’re lucky enough to have Christmas lunch made for you, make sure that the cook knows in plenty of time what foods might contain lactose or gluten as well or suggest that you will bring an alternative for everyone to try.”

Both lactose and gluten intolerances share symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, sickness and cramps. In fact, many intolerances are misdiagnosed and as a result, 38 per cent of people who think they suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) might in fact be lactose intolerant. It is also thought that between 50 per cent to 90 per cent of gluten-intolerance (coeliac disease) cases are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as IBS. So you may find yourself catering for those who don’t even realise they have an intolerance – happy tummy’s all round!

Tasty gluten-free Mince Pies. And that's the Genuius of it!

There was a time when "gluten free" sent a shiver down the spine of anyone with an allergy or an intolerance to wheat and/or gluten.

Yes, years ago there were gluten free products but they lacked a good mouth feel and they did not taste particularly nice, either!


Mince Pies were a good example. Either the pastry was wrong and horribly dry and/or the mince mixture was cloying and not especially pleasant.

But then along came someone with a genuine desire to put all that right. To ensure that gluten free did not mean taste free!

That someone was Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, who created Genius Foods. And so set in train a move toward providing people with decent tasty foods that were indistinguishable from normal food because it was normal food itself!

The pastry of Genius Mince Pies is a real crumbly shortcrust pastry and the filling is a real and extremely tasty proper rich, moist and fruity Mince Pie filling. Together the combination is a truly classic Christmas traditional delicacy. So good, in fact, that you could serve it as your only mince pie. But you'd best be sure to get a good few boxes in! Because they will prove popular! Could you pass them off as home made? You know, you probably could, but as that's definitely not in the tradition of the spirit of Christmas, you'll not want to be doing that!

So, tuck into your Genius Mince Pies, whilst raising a glass of mulled wine to Lucina Bruce-Gardyne, the founder of this particular Christmas feast! (And yes, that was a reference to A Christmas Carol!)

Of course, Genius make a whole range of equally tasty Gluten free products, so to find out more, visit www.geniusglutenfree.com  or nip over to their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/geniusglutenfree.

Gluten-free Breadsticks for your Barbecues

Now everyone can enjoy the barbecue season as special diets are no longer going to get in the way, and it's all thanks to the launch of DS-gluten free (Dietary Specials) Breadsticks.

Made especially for coeliacs, people who have an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten, the new Italian savoury treat goes well with any dips.

The DS-gluten free Breadsticks are the latest addition to the growing and popualr DS-gluten free savoury snack range, and are available from Asda stores throughout the UK . 

 Michelle Shinn, who is the Retail Brand Manager with Dr. Schär UK, said:  “With garden parties set to take place across the country this summer, these Breadsticks will make a perfect accompaniment to delicious dips and salads.

“The DS-gluten free Breadsticks are made in Italy with an authentic Italian recipe. We are looking forward to hearing our customers’ comments about what they think – we are sure they will love them.”

DS-gluten free Breadsticks can be bought at selected Asda stores across the UK and should cost £2.79 for 150g.

For details about the DS-gluten free range of gluten and wheat free products visit www.dsglutenfree.co.uk