Rebel Foods expands to Saudi Arabia, aims for $100 Million food delivery enterprise in three years

News

By

-

July 3, 2023

Rebel Foods, a cloud kitchen startup known for its popular brands like Faasos, Behrouz Biryani, and Oven Story Pizza, has recently expanded its operations to Saudi Arabia. The company successfully launched two cloud kitchens in Riyadh, marking its entry into the Saudi market.

Rebel Foods stated that its expansion into the Saudi market further solidifies the company’s commitment to the Middle East, building upon its existing presence in the United Arab Emirates. The foodtech startup acknowledges the strategic significance of entering Saudi Arabia and aims to capitalize on the region’s potential.

Rebel Foods proudly asserts its status as India’s pioneering foodtech company to venture into Saudi Arabia.

With its cloud kitchen network, the company sets its sights on establishing a $100-million food delivery enterprise in Saudi Arabia within the next three years. Additionally, Rebel Foods plans to augment its presence in Riyadh by introducing over 60 internet restaurants while simultaneously extending its reach to other prominent cities in the country, including Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar.

The kitchens in Riyadh are the result of a collaboration between KitchenPark, a Dubai-based company, and Kitch. Situated in Sulemaniya and Qurtoba, these kitchens will showcase popular brands such as The Messy Burger, Oven Story Pizza, Fricken’ Fried Chicken, and The 500 Calorie Project, all under the Rebel umbrella. Additionally, Behrouz Biryani, Faasos, and Mandarin Oak will be introduced in the near future.

Vishal Khithani, CEO, International Markets, Rebel Foods, said, “The Middle East or the MENA market is a key region for Rebel Foods and we are investing significantly to build our cloud kitchen network and to strengthen our brands.”

Khithani expressed the company’s dedication to fulfilling outstanding customer needs, emphasizing a strong emphasis on ensuring customer satisfaction.

“In addition to introducing iconic brands that resonate with the market, we are dedicated to serving multiple food missions as per the surging demand,” he added.

Established in 2011 by Jaydeep Barman and Kallol Banerjee, Rebel Foods operates a network of online restaurants encompassing 45 brands, with 4,000 cloud kitchens spread across various locations. The company’s operations span India, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, the UAE, and the UK.

The company’s operating system comprises three essential components: comprehensive technology covering inventory and kitchen management, demand management, and fulfillment; supply chain capabilities for sourcing, storing, and ensuring the safe movement of raw materials in various forms; and culinary expertise and capabilities to meticulously break down menus into small, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)-driven steps.

In the month of April, the company secured a debt funding of INR 75 crore ($9.1 million) from investors Northern Arc and Stride Ventures. This marked the fourth round of debt financing for the firm thus far.

Indian consumers adapt to inflation: Small packets and sachets gain popularity amid rising commodity prices

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

With the prices of staple commodities reaching unprecedented heights, Indian households are making a significant change by switching from big boxes to small packets and sachets.

Due to tight kitchen budgets, consumers are altering their spending habits, leading to noticeable changes in the market. Instead of purchasing fresh tomatoes, people are opting for small cartons of tomato puree. Similarly, fresh ginger is being replaced with convenient single-use sachets of ginger paste, and loose cumin powder is being substituted with tiny 7-gram sachets.

Sukanya Sinha, a postgraduate student who lives in south Kolkata, said, “Since last week I’ve been using tomato puree in my cooking and its value for money.”

Tomato puree pouches are available in smaller packs of 200 gm, which cost just INR 25, she added.

The surge in prices of fruits, vegetables, and spices due to rainfall can be associated with behavioral changes. Tomatoes, for instance, have experienced a drastic price increase, reaching INR 100/kg. Cumin powder, previously priced at INR 550/kg just a month ago, has recently spiked to INR 800/kg. Likewise, ginger has also witnessed a remarkable surge in price.

The transition can also be attributed to the fact that these commodities are integral to the staple Indian diet.

“Cumin powder is an essential ingredient in most vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian dishes. With its price soaring, I have started using sachet packs that are less expensive,” said Soma Dey, a homemaker residing on Canal West Road.

Until recently, various brands in the city offered cumin powder sachets priced as low as INR 5 for a 9 gm quantity. “Last week, all cumin powder sachets in my shop were sold out. The fresh lot that has arrived costs the same but the quantity is now 7 gm,” said Jai Prakash Gupta, who runs a grocery shop at Janbazar.

He further stated that there has been a notable decrease in the sales of loose cumin powder, accompanied by a corresponding surge in the demand for small sachet packs. Likewise, the availability of small ginger-garlic paste sachets has been dwindling rapidly, primarily due to the exorbitant prices of ginger.

A TOI report citing Janice Lee, director at a Chinese firm that has been making sauces and food products for eight decades, stated that the demand for tomato puree has hit unprecedented levels in recent days. An 800-gm pack of tomato puree pouch costs INR 60, which is way more economical than cooking with tomatoes. “We can maintain the price because we acquire the annual stock in winter when tomato prices are at their lowest,” she said.

“Small packs and sachets of spices and purees are almost always available at a lower price than the market rate of these products. It may be an innovative marketing policy by big companies. Also once habituated, customers tend to prefer sachets,” said Abhijit Nandy, who has a stationery shop in Bhowanipore.

Yum! Brands announces Sean Tresvant as new CEO of Taco Bell Division

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Yum! Brands, Inc. has recently revealed the appointment of Sean Tresvant as the Chief Executive Officer of the Taco Bell Division. Sean Tresvant will assume this role starting from January 1, 2024, and will report directly to David Gibbs, the Chief Executive Officer of Yum! Brands.

Tresvant, who currently serves as Global Chief Brand and Strategy Officer of Taco Bell, will succeed Mark King, who has announced his decision to retire at the end of 2023.

Taking on the role of CEO, Tresvant will undertake global responsibility for spearheading Taco Bell’s growth strategies, overseeing franchise operations, and ensuring the overall performance of the company.

“Sean is a visionary business leader and best-in-class brand builder who is driving transformative R.E.D. (relevant, easy, distinctive) sales-powering efforts, from omni-channel initiatives to digital customer touchpoints, to accelerate growth and further elevate and differentiate the Taco Bell fan and team member experience,” said Gibbs.

Tresvant joined Taco Bell in January 2022 as Global Chief Brand Officer. He was promoted to an expanded role as Global Chief Brand and Strategy Officer earlier this year, focused on developing perspective and ambition for long-term global growth.

As Global Chief Brand and Strategy Officer of Taco Bell, Tresvant has overseen the brand’s Strategy, Food Innovation, Architecture and Design and Global Communications functions as well as the Taco Bell International business. During his time with Taco Bell, Tresvant has set a powerful strategic framework that has created iconic moments within culture and driven massive awareness and buzz for the brand, including several high-profile celebrity partnerships and the return of the fan favorite Mexican Pizza. Prior to joining Taco Bell, Tresvant spent more than 15 years in leadership roles at Nike including Chief Marketing Officer of the Jordan Brand.

“The love our fans and team members have for Taco Bell is extraordinary and means we’re in a unique position to push the limits on culture and become a brand that inspires and enables the world to Live Más,” said Tresvant.

After DMRC’s liquor rule revision, Noida Excise Department issues advisory on one-bottle rule

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Following the clarification made by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) regarding the allowance of commuters to carry two sealed bottles of alcohol on its network, the Noida Excise department has issued a cautionary advisory concerning metro stations under its jurisdiction.

According to officials from Noida, the existing rule allows for the import of only one unsealed bottle from the adjoining regions of Delhi or Haryana, whether it is through the metro or by road.

“Although the Delhi Metro has allowed commuters to carry two sealed bottles of liquor, the rules of the Uttar Pradesh Excise Department apply in its jurisdiction, irrespective of any changes in Delhi,” a senior Noida District Excise official said.

The officer further stated that the excise department will enhance its surveillance at metro stations and initiate legal measures against commuters found carrying more than one sealed liquor bottle from outside Uttar Pradesh (UP). Additionally, efforts will be made to educate and inform commuters about the excise regulations in UP, aiming to prevent any inconvenience.

If an individual is found carrying an excess quantity of liquor beyond the permitted limit into the jurisdiction, the official stated that legal action would be taken under Section 63 of the Excise Act. This particular section deals with penalties for unlawful import, export, transport, manufacture, possession, and sale of liquor, and it is considered a non-bailable offense.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) clarified on Friday that the carriage of alcohol was prohibited on the Delhi Metro until last year, with the exception of the Airport Express Line. The recent decision to allow alcohol across the entire network is part of the DMRC’s policy to establish uniformity in this regard.

The Delhi Metro has revealed that a committee consisting of officials from the CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) and the DMRC conducted a comprehensive review of the list of items permitted to be carried on trains.

While permitting the carriage of alcohol, the DMRC has appealed to passengers to maintain decorum during their travel. The DMRC has also issued a warning that individuals found behaving inappropriately or indecently under the influence of alcohol will face appropriate legal action.

Analysts foresee minimal disruption for Coca-Cola following WHO’s aspartame decision

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

According to analysts, the classification of aspartame, the artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, as a possible carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) will have only a minimal effect on Coca-Cola. This is due to the company’s extensive production scale. This assessment was made on Friday.

The recent classification of the widely-used additive by the cancer research division of the World Health Organization in July has prompted consumers, food companies, retailers, and restaurants to weigh their options. They must now decide whether to challenge the classification or seek alternative options for the additive.

However, analysts pointed out that Coca-Cola might have an easier time transitioning to a natural sweetener compared to other companies that rely on aspartame. This is because Coca-Cola’s low-calorie offerings, which utilize aspartame, constituted approximately one-third of its total sales volume in 2022.

“Coca-Cola has one of the best production and distribution systems globally… who have successfully navigated plenty of hurdles in the past, like sugar taxes and reformulations associated with that,” said Charlie Higgs, an associate partner at Redburn Ltd, a consumer staples research firm.

In previous times, beverage producers like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have modified the composition of their ingredients to adhere to evolving policy shifts.

In 2012, these companies modified their cola manufacturing process by adjusting the caramel coloring to comply with the regulations of a California ballot initiative, which aimed to restrict people’s exposure to harmful chemicals.

According to Grzegorz Drozdz, a market analyst at Conotoxia Ltd, an investment firm, the transition away from aspartame could potentially impact Coca-Cola’s short-term profitability. However, Drozdz believes that the company’s extensive production history will prevent a significant decline in its long-term growth.

CFRA Research stated that PepsiCo could gain a competitive advantage over its rival, Coca-Cola, as it had already transitioned from aspartame to a combination of sucralose and acesulfame potassium. This move positions PepsiCo favorably compared to Coca-Cola in the ongoing shift away from aspartame.

In 2015, PepsiCo initially removed the additive aspartame from certain diet soda products in the United States. However, they reintroduced it in some products the following year. Then, in 2020, PepsiCo once again eliminated aspartame from their offerings.

Choko La continues to sweeten Delhi’s landscape with seventh boutique store in Saket

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Choko La

Choko La, the renowned premium chocolate brand, has exciting news to share. They have just announced the much-anticipated inauguration of their seventh boutique store, located in the prestigious Select Citywalk, Saket. This expansion marks another milestone in Choko La’s journey to bring their exquisite handcrafted chocolates to chocolate enthusiasts in the area.

Situated on the ground floor, the newly opened store presents an extensive selection of gifting and celebration cakes, introducing a vital category to Choko La’s offerings. As a standalone boutique, it proudly showcases all of the brand’s signature product categories, encompassing chocolate gift hampers, bars, signature cakes, and freshly baked breads. Additionally, Choko La aims to cater to customers seeking occasion-specific personalized designer cakes, further enhancing their commitment to providing tailored delights for every celebration.

Vasudha Munjal Dinodia, Founder & CEO, Choko La, said, “I constantly strive to make Choko La the vehicle with which others can savour those moments too. For us at Choko La – quality, product innovation and customer centricity are the most important key pillars for long term success, something that I have learnt from my grandfather and father. Our new product and boutique launches are a testament to it. We are very happy and thrilled with our new store opening at Select Citywalk.”

Choko La has also expanded their cloud kitchens and has opened 12 new cloud kitchens across Delhi-NCR in Q1 and are opening another five by Q3. Globally, Choko La supplies to the USA and UK market and shall soon start supplying to Singapore, Canada, Germany and GCC, added Vibhu Mahajan, COO of the brand.

With many successful boutiques in Delhi, Gurgaon and Duty Free, Choko La is all set to reach a wider local and international audience with its new store launch.

IRCTC dispels vegetarian-only menu speculations during Sawan, assures availability of regular food options

News

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Vegetarian food train — Vegetarian food (Representative Image)

An official from the food services stall in Bhagalpur, Bihar, made an announcement on Saturday, stating that they will exclusively serve vegetarian food during the month of Sawan. Beginning July 4, the provision of non-vegetarian food will be suspended.

Pankaj Kumar, the manager of the food services stall, informed news agency ANI about the decision, stating that the food will be prepared without the inclusion of onion and garlic. Additionally, fruits will be provided to the customers. Kumar emphasized that cleanliness will be meticulously maintained.

However, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) issued a statement to clarify the situation. According to the IRCTC, no instructions have been given to restrict the availability of non-vegetarian food during the month of Sawan or any specific date. They emphasized that all approved food items will remain accessible for passengers to purchase from the food unit as usual.

Sawan, alternatively known as Shravan, represents the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and holds great significance as one of the holiest months in the Hindu religion. It is a period characterized by deep spiritual devotion, fasting, and jubilation observed by millions of Hindus throughout India and various other regions across the globe. Typically, Sawan falls between the months of July and August, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon season.

This year, Sawan will begin on July 4 and continue until August 31, lasting for a total of 59 days. What makes this year’s Sawan particularly noteworthy is the occurrence of eight Sawan Mondays or Somwars, instead of the usual four that take place each year. This phenomenon is happening after a gap of 19 years, adding a unique aspect to the month-long festivities and religious observances.

The fasting period for this year begins on July 10, which happens to be the first fasting Monday, and it concludes on August 28, which marks the last Monday fast of the period.

In addition to observing the Sawan Somwar fasts, another important aspect of this month is the Kanwar Yatra. This religious ritual involves devotees of Lord Shiva carrying small pots known as Kanwars and collecting water from holy rivers. Adorned in saffron-colored attire, the devotees embark on foot to visit sacred sites associated with Lord Shiva, symbolizing their unwavering devotion and dedication.

Tired of the same old snacks? Elevate your binge game with Kerala’s exquisite flavors!

To Try

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Are you tired of the same old snacks and looking for something new and exciting to elevate your binge game? Look no further than the exquisite flavors of Kerala! This beautiful coastal state in South India is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also for its delectable cuisine. Kerala offers a wide array of snacks that are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. From crispy treats to sweet delights, these traditional snacks will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. So, let’s explore the world of Kerala’s snack culture and discover some mouthwatering treats that will surely satisfy your cravings.

Chatti Pathiri: A Culinary Masterpiece

One of the most unique and intricate snacks from Kerala is Chatti Pathiri. This dish is particularly popular among the Muslim population in the state and requires a certain level of culinary expertise to master. In Malayalam, “chatti” means “pot” or “pan,” and “pathiri” refers to the thin savory pancakes that are a staple in Keralan kitchens. To prepare Chatti Pathiri, you layer shredded spiced chicken between these thin pancakes, creating a savory pastry-like dish. The layered creation is then pan-roasted to perfection and served hot, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Kuzhalappam: Crispy Cylinders of Delight

If you’re a fan of crispy snacks, Kuzhalappam is a must-try delicacy from Kerala. The name “kuzhal” translates to “barrel” in Malayalam, aptly describing the cylindrical shape of this deep-fried treat. Made with a combination of rice flour, cumin, black sesame seeds, and garlic, Kuzhalappam not only delights your taste buds but also provides immune-boosting benefits. Whether you enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or a refreshing cup of coffee, this savory snack is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ottada: Fragrant Packages of Sweetness

Ottada is a unique snack from Kerala that combines the aroma of freshly burned banana leaves with the sweetness of coconut and jaggery. These sweet rice flour packages are wrapped in banana leaves, adding a distinct flavor to the dish. As you indulge in the delightful filling made of coconut, crunchy sweet rice, and chakkavaratti (jackfruit jam), you’ll find yourself craving for more. Ottada shares similarities with other Kerala snacks like elaada and kozhukatta, all of which showcase the state’s culinary diversity and creativity.

Orappam: The Perfect Blend of Crisp and Gooey

Orappam, also known as Vattayappam, is a traditional old-fashioned snack hailing from Kerala. This delectable treat is made with rice flour, coconut milk, and a sweetener such as jaggery or ordinary sugar. The result is a snack that offers a delightful contrast of textures. On the outside, Orappam is crispy, while on the inside, it is soft, mushy, and gooey. With its unique blend of flavors and its visually appealing appearance, Orappam is a must-have snack for anyone looking to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Kerala.

Arikadukka: Crispy Seafood Delight

For seafood lovers, Arikadukka is a snack that will leave you wanting more. This mouthwatering delicacy requires fresh mussels to be deep-fried after being coated in a mixture of salt, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. While the preparation may require a bit of effort, the end result is a crispy and crunchy paradise. Arikadukka showcases the influence of Kerala’s coastal geography on its culinary traditions, offering a delightful seafood snack that captures the essence of the region.

Unnakaya: A Ramadan Favorite

Unnakaya is a spindle-shaped snack that holds a special place in the hearts of the Muslim population in Kerala, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Originating from the northern regions of Kannur and Thalassery, Unnakaya is a year-round favorite that is enjoyed by people of all communities. This energy-packed snack is made with bananas, cashews, raisins, and rice flakes, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating Ramadan or simply looking to explore the diverse snack culture of Kerala, Unnakaya is a treat that should not be missed.

Sukiyan: Sweet Mung Bean Delights

Sukiyan is a typical Keralan evening snack that showcases the versatility of mung beans in creating delicious sweets. These deep-fried balls of cooked mung beans are sweetened with coconut and jaggery, offering a delightful balance of flavors. While Sukiyan shares some similarities with the popular South Indian snack called bonda, it stands out with its sweeter taste and unique combination of ingredients. Whether you have a sweet tooth or simply appreciate the flavors of Kerala, Sukiyan is a snack that will satisfy your cravings.

Neyyappam: Heavenly Ghee-Fried Delicacy

Prepare to indulge in the heavenly flavors of Neyyappam, a small sweet appam that is fried to perfection in ghee. These small globes of delight feature two traditional Keralan snack ingredients: coconut and jaggery. Neyyappam’s irresistible taste and aroma make it hard to resist, and you’ll find it difficult to stop at just one. With its crispy outer layer and moist, sweet interior, Neyyappam offers a sensory experience that exemplifies the culinary richness of Kerala.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re tired of the same old snacks and are looking to elevate your binge game, Kerala’s exquisite flavors are here to delight your taste buds. With a wide range of snacks that showcase the state’s cultural diversity and culinary expertise, Kerala offers a treasure trove of delights waiting to be explored. From savory treats like Chatti Pathiri and Kuzhalappam to sweet delicacies like Ottada and Unnakaya, each snack tells a unique story and brings forth the rich flavors of the region. So, the next time you find yourself craving a snack, why not embark on a culinary journey through Kerala and experience the magic of its exquisite flavors!

Idli lovers, have you explored these 6 delightfully unique varieties?

To Try

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Idli, a quintessential South Indian dish, has garnered a well-deserved reputation as a beloved comfort food worldwide. Its humble yet satisfying nature, coupled with its health benefits, has made it a go-to choice for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a snack. While the classic idli recipe holds a special place in our hearts, culinary enthusiasts and innovative chefs have embarked on a flavorful journey, creating unique variations of this beloved dish. These delightful idli variations not only showcase the creativity of the culinary world but also provide idli lovers with exciting options to expand their taste horizons. In this article, we will delve into six delightfully unique idli varieties that are sure to entice your palate and elevate your idli experience to new heights.

Exploring Unique Idli Varieties

Ragi Idli

Ragi idli is a healthier alternative to the traditional rice-based idli. Ragi, also known as finger millet, is rich in fiber, calcium, and iron. To prepare ragi idli, a portion of the rice in the batter is replaced with ragi flour. The result is a nutritious idli with a unique nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture. Ragi idli is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet.

Palak Idli

Palak idli is a vibrant green idli variation that incorporates the goodness of spinach. Blanched spinach leaves are pureed and added to the idli batter, giving it a vibrant color and a subtle earthy taste. Palak idli not only adds nutritional value to the dish but also makes it visually appealing. It is an excellent way to sneak in some greens for picky eaters.

Quinoa Idli

Quinoa, a protein-packed pseudo-grain, has gained popularity as a superfood in recent years. Quinoa idli combines the goodness of quinoa with the traditional idli preparation. By replacing a portion of the rice with quinoa, this variety offers a higher protein content and adds a nutty flavor to the idlis. Quinoa idli is a nutritious choice for those following a gluten-free or high-protein diet.

Poha Idli

Poha, or flattened rice, is a commonly used ingredient in Indian cuisine. Poha idli incorporates soaked poha into the idli batter, resulting in soft and fluffy idlis with a delicate texture. Poha adds a slight sweetness and a lightness to the idlis, making them incredibly appealing. Poha idli is an excellent option for those looking for a quick and easy variation that requires minimal fermentation time.

Rava Idli

Rava idli, also known as semolina idli, is a popular variation that uses semolina or sooji instead of rice. This variation eliminates the need for soaking and fermenting the batter, making it a convenient choice for those short on time. Rava idlis are light, spongy, and have a mild nutty flavor. The addition of yogurt and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and cashews further enhance the taste.

Kanchipuram Idli

Originating from the temple town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram idli is a unique and flavorful variation of the traditional idli. It is made by adding spices like peppercorns, cumin seeds, ginger, and curry leaves to the idli batter. The resulting idlis have a distinctive taste and aroma that is truly enticing. Kanchipuram idlis are often served with coconut chutney or sambar, making them a delightful treat for the taste buds.

Final Thoughts:

While the traditional idli continues to be a favorite among idli lovers, exploring the unique idli varieties opens up a world of flavors and health benefits. Ragi idli, palak idli, quinoa idli, poha idli, rava idli, and Kanchipuram idli offer exciting alternatives that cater to diverse taste preferences and dietary needs. These variations not only add variety to your idli repertoire but also provide a chance to incorporate different grains and ingredients into your diet. So, the next time you crave idlis, why not try one of these delightful and unique variations to elevate your culinary experience?

Gluten intolerant? Beware! These sneaky foods may be sabotaging your health!

Health & Diet

By

SnackTeam

-

July 3, 2023

0

Gluten intolerance, a condition characterized by adverse reactions to gluten consumption, affects a significant number of individuals worldwide. For those with this condition, avoiding gluten is essential to maintaining good health. While it may seem straightforward to eliminate obvious sources of gluten, such as bread and pasta, there are numerous hidden culprits that can sabotage the well-being of gluten-intolerant individuals. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the world of sneaky foods that may contain gluten, uncovering the unsuspected sources that pose a threat to those with gluten intolerance. By understanding these hidden dangers and arming yourself with knowledge, you can make informed choices to protect your health and well-being.

So, if you are gluten intolerant, it’s time to be on high alert and learn about the sneaky foods that may be compromising your dietary efforts.

Hidden Sources of Gluten

While it may seem relatively straightforward to avoid gluten by cutting out obvious sources like bread and pasta, gluten can be hidden in many unexpected food items. It is crucial for individuals with gluten intolerance to be aware of these hidden sources to prevent accidental consumption and the associated health risks.

Oats

Oats are a naturally gluten-free grain, but they are often contaminated with gluten during processing. It is important to look for certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease. These oats are grown and processed separately from gluten-containing grains, ensuring they are safe for consumption.

Processed Foods

Many processed foods contain gluten, including packaged snacks, frozen meals, and canned soups. It is important to read labels carefully and look for gluten-free alternatives. Ingredients like wheat flour, barley malt, and rye should be avoided, and products with clear gluten-free labeling should be chosen instead.

Sauces and Condiments

Sauces and condiments can be a hidden source of gluten. Soy sauce, mustard sauce, and marmite often contain gluten. It is important to look for gluten-free alternatives or make your own sauces and dressings at home using gluten-free ingredients.

French Fries

French fries are made from potatoes, which are naturally gluten-free. However, many restaurants and fast-food chains use a coating or batter that contains wheat to make their fries crispy. If you are following a gluten-free diet, look for fries that are specifically labeled as gluten-free or opt for baked or homemade fries.

Gravy

Gravy is frequently made with flour as a thickener, which means it includes gluten. If you’re gluten-free, check for gluten-free gravy options or prepare your own using gluten-free flour substitutes.

Canned Soups

Wheat is often used as a thickening or filler in canned soups. If you are gluten-free, search for soups that are clearly labeled as gluten-free or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.

Liquorice

Liquorice is a candy that is often made with wheat flour. If you are following a gluten-free diet, look for liquorice that is specifically labeled as gluten-free or opt for other gluten-free sweet treats.

Malt Vinegar

Malt vinegar is made from barley, which means it contains gluten. If you are following a gluten-free diet, look for vinegar that is made from alternative grains such as rice or corn to avoid gluten contamination.

Spices and Seasonings

Some spices and seasonings contain gluten, including curry powder and spice blends. It is important to read labels carefully and look for gluten-free alternatives. Pure spices without added ingredients are typically safe, but it’s always best to double-check to ensure they are free from gluten.

Seitan

Seitan, also known as wheat meat or wheat gluten, is a popular meat substitute made from wheat gluten. It is commonly used in vegetarian and vegan dishes and is often used as a substitute for meat in dishes such as stir-fries and stews. If you have gluten intolerance, it is essential to avoid seitan or choose gluten-free alternatives like tofu or tempeh.

Beer

Beer is traditionally made from gluten-containing grains like barley and wheat. While certain gluten-free beers are available, most beers contain gluten and should be avoided by anyone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Look for gluten-free beer options made from alternative grains like rice, corn, or sorghum.

Processed Meats

Processed meats such as sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats often contain gluten. This is because they are made with fillers and binders that contain wheat. If you are following a gluten-free diet, look for processed meats that are labeled as gluten-free or choose fresh, unprocessed meats instead.

Couscous

Couscous is a popular grain used in many Middle Eastern and North African dishes. It is made from wheat, which means it contains gluten. There are gluten-free couscous alternatives available, such as quinoa or rice couscous, which can be substituted in recipes.

Salad Dressings

Gluten is used as a thickening or stabilizer in many salad dressings. If you are gluten-free, search for dressings that are specifically branded as gluten-free or make your own dressings using gluten-free ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.

Ice Cream

Ice cream is not typically made with gluten-containing ingredients. However, some brands may use wheat-based stabilizers or add-ins such as cookies or brownies. It is important to read labels carefully or choose gluten-free ice cream brands to avoid gluten contamination.

Final Thoughts:

Gluten intolerance requires diligence and awareness to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Hidden sources of gluten can easily sabotage your health, but with the right knowledge and careful choices, you can successfully navigate a gluten-free diet. By avoiding these foods, you can effectively manage your gluten intolerance and enjoy a fulfilling and healthy life.

NewsHub