The Canadian Celiac Association (CCA) is excited about the rapid expansion of the Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP).
It is the only Canadian voluntary certification program designed for manufacturers of gluten-free food, drug and pharmaceutical products who want to make their product stand out in the clutter of gluten-free claims.
“The market for gluten-free foods in Canada is estimated at approximately $400 million,” says CCA president Brian Benwell. “The GFCP is about applying globally recognized food safety management principles to ensure safe, gluten-free products for those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.”
Certified products can bear the trusted mark of the CCA, and the program includes a rigorous verification and regular audits. The GFCP is a win-win program for manufacturers and retailers because having the backing of the CCA, the trusted national voice of Canadians with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, means consumers will be able to shop with confidence.
“Previously, a person with celiac disease going grocery shopping had to scrutinize every label and decode mysterious ingredient names,” says CCA executive director Peter Taylor.
Many Canadians are not in a position to prepare their own food,” Benwell explains.
“Those in the military, in long-term care facilities, in hospitals, and even at college or university, depend on others to serve their foods and we want to make sure that all Canadians with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity can count on eating safely.”
For more information or to schedule an interview, contact the CCA at 1-800-363-7296, or www.info@celiac.ca.