As Sept. 13, National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, approaches, those with the condition can take solace in Amy’s Kitchen’s extensive lineup of gluten-free frozen meals and products. The organic food company, known for its vegetarian and vegan offerings, has steadily expanded its gluten-free options in recent years to cater to customers with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities.
Recognizing the growing demand for gluten-free options, Amy’s Kitchen introduced its first gluten-free products in 2001. So what was its debut gluten-free dish? Rice Mac & Cheese was the first Amy’s Kitchen dish to ditch the gluten. Today, the company offers over 100 gluten-free items across its menu, including Mole Enchilada, its popular Broccoli Cheddar Bake, burritos, pizza, soups, veggie burgers and even dishes such as Mole Enchilada and Pad Thai.
And for California diners lucky enough to live near one of its three Amy’s Drive Thru locations, everything on the menu can be made gluten free, like its organic veggie burgers, pizzas, burritos, and more.
“One of the many benefits of being family-owned and operated is that Rachel and Andy [Berliner, Amy’s founders] can try new things without having to convince a boardroom full of shareholders,” reads amys.com. “So when Rachel started receiving letters about the difficulty of living with a gluten allergy, the Berliners met with their chef and started cooking up some new recipes.”
The brand soon became a pioneer in producing a wide range of gluten-free meals.
“Our vision is to offer delicious and nutritious meals that are accessible to all, regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions — from vegan and gluten-free options to heart-healthy and allergen-friendly alternatives,” the Berliners state in a letter in Amy’s 2023 impact report. “Everyone should have a seat at the table.”
Amy’s Kitchen’s gluten-free products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet Food and Drug Administration standards for gluten-free labeling. The company uses dedicated gluten-free production lines and implements strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination. All gluten-free items are clearly labeled for easy identification by consumers.
What Is Celiac Disease And How Does Gluten Worsen It?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with celiac disease, eating gluten can lead to damage in the small intestine and a range of health issues. The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet.
An estimated 1 in 100 people worldwide are affected by celiac disease, but only about 30% are properly diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation.
There are plenty of famous people living with celiac disease, too, who have been vocal about what it’s like living with the condition, including actress Zooey Deschanel and star of Shameless Emmy Rossum.
Recent market research shows the gluten-free products market is projected to increase by $5.23 billion through 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.66%. This growth reflects rising awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivities, as well as a general trend towards gluten-free diets among certain consumers.
To that end, Amy’s Kitchen has invested in developing gluten-free recipes that aim to match the taste and quality of their gluten products. This includes sourcing alternative grains and flours like rice, quinoa, and corn to create gluten-free versions of pasta, bread, and other wheat-based components in their meals.
Amy’s Kitchen has also expanded its gluten-free offerings to include options for other dietary needs and preferences. Many of the company’s gluten-free products are also dairy-free, catering to customers who avoid both gluten and lactose. The company offers vegan and gluten-free items as well, such as its gluten-free, dairy-free mac and cheese made with rice pasta and a plant-based cheese alternative.
Amy’s Kitchen began in 1987 when founders Andy and Rachel Berliner started making organic vegetarian potpies at home. The company has since grown into a major player in the natural and organic frozen food market, with a product line that includes over 135 varieties of items sold in stores across the United States and internationally.
