Mi Local Foodbeet: Michigan and Gluten Free

People choose their diets based on many factors. For some, there is the luxury of choices and for others there are food sensitivities or the necessity of disease control. Many people avoid gluten. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley.

In mid-May, at the Delta-Plex in Grand Rapids, there was a gluten free fair. It was the seventh annual and sponsored by Anchor Baptist Church. I visited to learn about the Michigan produced gluten free foods. I arrived around 10:00 am – the opening time. As I searched for a parking space, people were entering the building in a steady stream: mostly women, some men, and a few children. As I entered, I was given a bag with brochures and samples. There was a large room filled with food booths; they also had information and samples. Some local restaurants were there with their gluten free menus. There was also a booth for a company that makes stickers and signs used to distinguish gluten free (or other allergens) in food products in stores, bakeries, and homes.

Classes were also available. I attended two by Margaux Drake, certified raw food chef; this was the highlight of the event for me. I was happy that this food opportunity was available. Often gluten free foods are substitutes for white flour products and are equally as processed. Certainly, we all enjoy processed foods.

Feast your eyes on the photos from the fair and the links to Michigan produced gluten free foods.

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