Latest News from Gluten Free Ireland

Coeliac Awareness Month – May 2025

In Ireland and the United Kingdom it’s reckoned that 1 person in 100 is on a Gluten Free diet.

Approximately three quarters (75%) are not medically diagnosed as Coeliac so why do some people on a Gluten Free diet not check with their GP to see if they are Coeliac?

It’s reckoned there are a number of reasons for this even though doing so is medically important.

Self-Diagnosis or Perceived Improvement
Many people start a gluten-free diet on their own because they feel better without gluten. If symptoms improve, they might see no need to seek a diagnosis as they assume their self-diagnosis is sufficient.
Lack of Awareness
Some individuals don’t realize that coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition that requires formal testing, follow-up, and monitoring — not just dietary changes.
Fear of Medical Procedures
They might be reluctant to undergo blood tests or an endoscopy, which is typically required for a confirmed coeliac diagnosis.
Already on a Gluten-Free Diet
Testing for coeliac disease is only accurate when the person is still eating gluten regularly. Once on a gluten-free diet, they may not want to go back on gluten (a “gluten challenge”) just for the sake of testing, especially if it means a return of symptoms.
Misinformation Online or from Non-Medical Sources
Some rely on advice from influencers, alternative practitioners, or unverified sources that downplay the need for a formal diagnosis.
Access Issues
In some regions, GP access or wait times for specialist referrals to a gastroenterologist can be a barrier to diagnosis.
Belief That “Gluten Free Is Healthier”
Some adopt the diet as a general health choice and may not believe a diagnosis is relevant unless they have severe symptoms.

That means all those not medically diagnosed as Coeliac but living in Northern or Southern Ireland are not benefiting from obtaining some of their staple GF foodstuffs on FREE prescription in Northern Ireland or receiving a tax refund from the Irish Revenue in the Irish Republic.

We all know Coeliacs pay a premium for their GF food so, in these days of high living costs, we think it would make sense to do whatever it takes to cut your expenditure on food!

Do you identify with any of the reasons listed above and if so, what will you do about it?

Are You Thinking of Your Summer Holidays?

If so, can we point you towards a couple in Ballymena, Co Antrim who are running a very useful business for the Coeliac/Gluten Free community.

The Coeliac Travel Consultant – www.thecoeliactravelconsultant.com

Check them out before you book anything and here’s one of their lists you may find useful – Pre departure action needed!

Planning a trip to the west coast of Canada?

See our link with The Celiac Scene for help and advice on where to eat and what’s available over towards Vancouver Island:

https://glutenfreeireland.com/planning-a-trip-to-canada/

Gluten Free Glee

We know there are now a number of apps helping Coeliacs live the GF life and the folk at Gluten Free Glee have just launched theirs – www.gfglee.com

Take a look and see what they are up to!

Problem Foods

Malt and derivatives

Malt is a cereal grain, usually from Barley and is not allowed for Coeliacs.

Malt Extract is used as a flavouring agent and is not allowed for Coeliacs.

Barley Malt Vinegar is made from fermented Barley and the Gluten is removed during the processing. According to the Coeliac Society of Ireland, it is safe for Coeliacs. Furthermore, the quantity used on your chips etc is reckoned to be so small it will not cause any problems.

Where the Barley Malt Vinegar is used as an ingredient in a product claiming to be GF it will be safe as it will have tested at under 20ppm.

On the other hand, Coeliac UK are asking food manufacturers who produce products made with ingredients from gluten containing grains, such as Barley Malt Vinegar, to not only confirm that their products have been tested and shown to have no more than 20 ppm gluten, but also to label them gluten free.

In the absence of a gluten free label they will no longer be included in the Coeliac UK Food Information listings.

(If you are still unsure about Barley Malt Vinegar there are alternative sources of vinegar that are not made from Barley such as balsamic, cider, sherry, spirit, white wine and red wine vinegar so you won’t be stuck!)

Malt Whisky is distilled and safe for Coeliacs! 😊

Gluten Free Wheat Starch

Gluten-free wheat starch is wheat starch that has had its gluten content reduced to trace levels, typically under 20 parts per million (ppm). It’s reckoned this processing makes it suitable for people with Coeliac Disease or gluten intolerance, as it complies with the legal definition of gluten-free.

It’s used in gluten-free baking and cooking to help mimic the texture and properties of wheat flour without the gluten.

However, while generally safe for those with Coeliac Disease, some individuals may still have adverse reactions to this GF wheat starch and this includes my wife Tina!

If you have concerns, it’s always best to avoid wheat starch or choose products clearly certified gluten-free by a reputable organization.

Eating Out ideas

The Primrose Restaurant & Bar – Ballynahinch Co Down

If you’re passing through Ballynahinch in Co Down and need a GF meal we have been hearing great things about The Primrose Restaurant & Pub.

Read more about them, including opening days/times here: www.theprimrose.co.uk

Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge

At Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge in the Vale of Avoca, Arklow, they pride themselves on locally sourced and creative menus that have something for everyone.

Read more about Woodenbridge here: – www.woodenbridgehotel.com