by Maureen Cason
Pondering what the buzz is over “gluten-free”? What’s gluten, why do some people feel better avoiding it, and what do those gluten-free labels mean on the grocery shelves? What differentiates celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and wheat allergy?
You’ll find answers to these questions and more on March 19th, at Andrea’s Gluten Free Seminar and Vendor Fair, Gluten-Free: To Be or Not To Be?, an event co-sponsored by Schnuck Markets and The Healthy Planet magazine.
Andrea Kosinski, owner and Chief Taste Officer of Andrea’s Gluten Free says, “I feel a responsibility to stay current on research concerning the gluten-free diet. Education is an important element of our business model, and not just for the benefit of our current customers. More people are being diagnosed all the time with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, and others are wondering if they might be affected. The general public is looking for answers.”
With that in mind, Andrea’s goal for the event is to provide a day of expert gluten-free education, food options and wellness. All attendees will be able to sample and purchase gluten-free food and chat with service providers and physicians about the gluten-free lifestyle.
Beside Andrea’s Gluten-Free, Schnuck Markets and The Healthy Planet magazine, some of the Vendor Fair exhibitors include Udi’s Gluten Free Foods, Bi-State Celiac Support Group, Logan Chiropractic Health Centers, Top Hat Butter, and Hendrickson’s Dressing. Eleven year old co-designers Cara Palombo and Emily Manion will offer their original earrings for sale, with all proceeds to benefit celiac disease research.
Attendees will receive a goodie bag filled with samples, coupons and literature from gluten-free food manufacturers. There will be live music, door prizes, gift certificates, and a raffle to benefit celiac research.
“We’re very excited about the topics and expertise of our Seminar speakers,” says Kosinski. “This is a great opportunity for the public to get their gluten-free questions answered by the pros!” (See ad in this issue of The Healthy Planet for speaker names and topics.)
Andrea’s Gluten Free is a dedicated gluten, peanut and tree nut-free bakery in Chesterfield. Customer favorites include pumpkin muffins, chocolate chip cookies, pizza, and multi-grain bread. The store also carries cookbook and resource materials, and items from emerging gluten-free food manufacturers.
Registration details for Gluten-Free: To Be or Not To Be? can be found online at www.andreasglutenfree.com.
Andrea’s Gluten Free, 759 Spirit of St. Louis Blvd., Chesterfield, MO 63005, 636-536-9953.
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