January 28, 2016

Quaker Oats has joined the ranks of the many companies newly offering gluten-free products. American consumer’s interest in products made without gluten has been on the rise as awareness about celiac disease and gluten intolerance continues to increase.

Those who suffer from gluten intolerance may experience discomfort when ingesting too much gluten, while those with celiac disease risk serious health complications as gluten destroys the lining in the small intestine.

The FDA estimates that up to 3 million Americans are affected by the inflammatory autoimmune disorder.

Quaker Food’s Senior Vice President Becky Frankiewicz said that gluten-free oats have been in high demand from customers for the “past several years.” In response, Quaker has announced a two-product rollout including Quaker Quick 1-Minute Standard Oats, available in 18-oz canisters, and Quaker Gluten Free Instant Oatmeal, available in single-serve pouches in original and maple brown sugar flavors.

While oats are inherently gluten-free, the company says, “[Oats can be contaminated with gluten] during farming, transportation and storage, gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, barley and spelt may be unintentionally introduced.” To prevent contamination, Quaker is using a special process to clean its oats by separating them from grains. Machines and sorters identify grains and remove them based on size, color and length.  Frankiewicz said that the company’s millers have taken time to develop this process so that consumers “can be confident” about choosing Quaker for their gluten-free needs.