The market for gluten-free foods - Brazil

1.1 Definition and scope of study

Gluten, present in nearly 70% of food products, is a substance resulting from the processing of certain cereals (wheat, rye, barley, oats) . It can be harmful to people with gluten intolerance or allergies. Some of the best-selling gluten-free products include: Beer; Biscuits; Pasta; Bread; Confectionery; Salt; Prepared dishes.

The global market for gluten-free foods is growing, as is the market for gluten-free foods in general brazilian . Stimulated by a diversification of the gluten-free product range The market also benefits from consumer friendliness, as gluten-free products are often associated with a healthy diet. The progressive interest in health and balanced diet is partly responsible for the consumption of gluten-free products even by those who do not suffer from illnesses.

The "gluten-free" trend has convinced the major food producer groups to position themselves in this segment, alongside the smaller players: pioneers of the segment or experts in "organic" foods. In addition, gluten-free restoration is also in vogue .

In Brazil, a survey of consumers of the Schär revealed that 85.8% of them or their relatives are on a gluten-free diet . Of this group, 45% have started this type of plan in the past two years . In addition, more than 70% of respondents consume gluten-free products for medical reasons . In this case, celiac disease is identified as the main factor in diet adoption (40%), followed by gluten sensitivity (33%). The study also points out that 75% of gluten-free consumers are women aged 25-54 years old This is in line with global estimates that on average 70% of consumers are women.