Gluten-Free Food Becomes Luxury Item

Gluten-free staples are increasingly unaffordable for individuals with coeliac disease, turning a necessary medical diet into a luxury. Prices for items like bread and biscuits have seen dramatic increases, with a small loaf of gluten-free bread often costing up to £4. This surge means a significant portion of a household budget is now allocated to these essential foods, especially for families with multiple members requiring a gluten-free diet.

Consumers are also facing reduced product sizes while prices climb, meaning they are paying more for less food. For example, a pack of gluten-free biscuits can cost nearly three times as much as regular biscuits for a much smaller quantity. This situation is compounded by reduced availability, with some supermarkets ending trials of extensive free-from ranges, limiting shopping options for coeliacs.

Research indicates that a substantial majority of individuals with coeliac disease struggle to afford these staples. The rising costs are a direct consequence of increased ingredient sourcing expenses, specialized production requirements, and stricter testing, all contributing to prices that many cannot sustain. This trend is also reflected in new product launches, with gluten-free options representing a smaller share of new food items in recent years.

Concerns are also mounting over the withdrawal of NHS prescriptions for gluten-free bread and flour in England, further increasing the financial burden on individuals. The economic pressures of inflation and global events are squeezing household budgets, making it harder for coeliacs to manage their condition effectively and safely.