When gluten-free first became popular, it may have seemed like a fad diet. Today, it’s proven its staying power, and it’s grown out of both popularity and necessity.

Many people need gluten-free food to be their healthiest selves. When there aren’t any gluten-free options in the office, you’re excluding a portion of employees. It’s important to be considerate and cater to all associates. Moreover, it’s critical that all of your workers feel seen and heard.

How Many People Need Gluten-Free Foods?

Several medical conditions require a gluten-free diet, for instance, celiac disease. According to the National Library of Medicine, one in 133 people, or about 1.76 million people, in the United States have celiac. Similarly, about 20 million people in the United States have other gluten sensitivities.

How Does Being Gluten-Free Affect People?

It’s important to consider everyone’s dietary restrictions. It’s also important to offer a variety of options so everyone feels included.

People who need gluten-free foods can often feel alienated. A study by the National Library of Medicine found that about 21% of people with celiac disease avoid social events because they need specific foods. If they don’t have anything to eat, they might prefer to stay home; this could make them miss out on office parties and social gatherings.

Having accessible food available can also be a hugely positive thing! Consumers are more likely to revisit a dining location when it meets their needs. It gives them a more positive experience. If businesses want more of their people in the office, they have to prioritize their people. Workers are more willing to come in when their companies have met their food needs.

Now, Back to That Fad Diet Thing…

Not all people who are gluten-free have medical conditions, but you shouldn’t count them out! Many consumers believe eating gluten-free is a healthier choice. This also furthers the growing need to offer gluten-free foods.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are more health-conscious, and today’s consumers make more wellness-oriented decisions. According to an article from Restaurant Business, 29% of consumers perceive gluten-free diets as a healthier way to eat. More people have shifted to gluten-free diets for health-conscious reasons which has increased the need for gluten-free products.

In 2022, experts at Grand View Research estimated the global gluten-free product market was worth 6.45 billion USD. They predict the market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.8% from 2023 to 2030!

Conclusion

Gluten-free options in your workplace appeal to plenty of people. Including these options ensures everyone has a quality experience.

People may follow gluten-free diets for medical reasons or other health reasons. Regardless of their reasons, their leaders should aim to accommodate them. Giving your employees what they need is a must!

At Canteen, we prioritize catering to everyone’s needs. Get started with us today! We’ll help you find out which gluten-free options you can offer in your workplace.