In-Store Bakeries Team Up for Gluten-Free Solutions

Supermarkets are tapping into the growing gluten-free market by partnering with specialty bakeries to offer fresh, high-quality gluten-free baked goods. One standout example is Dorothy Lane Market’s collaboration with Bites of Nostalgia, a gluten-free bakery, which allows shoppers to order fresh gluten-free cakes with the convenience of next-day pickup.

Tailored Solutions for Gluten-Free Consumers

Dorothy Lane Market ensures the integrity of its gluten-free offerings by adhering to stringent handling protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Cakes from Bites of Nostalgia are delivered without icing, and Dorothy Lane’s bakers decorate them in a carefully sanitized environment.

“We open a fresh container of icing and decorate it in a thoroughly cleaned area,” explained C.A. Diltz, Dorothy Lane’sgluten-free specialist. These simple yet effective precautions are a model for other retailers aiming to serve gluten-free customers safely.

Consumer-Centric Partnerships

Bites of Nostalgia, led by founder Jessica Vu, exemplifies the power of understanding customer needs. Diagnosed with celiac disease in 2013, Vu transformed her traditional biscotti recipe into a gluten-free version. Her products quickly gained popularity, proving that gluten-free items could maintain the taste and texture of traditional baked goods.

Vu’s experience highlights the importance of offering fresh-baked gluten-free products rather than shelf-stable alternatives filled with preservatives. Fresh options not only differentiate supermarkets but also attract gluten-free shoppers looking for high-quality, flavorful choices.

Taste Drives Purchases

According to a survey by the Gluten Free Media Group, taste is the top priority for 65% of gluten-free consumers. Sampling plays a crucial role in driving purchases, with 92% of respondents more likely to buy a product they can try first.

Vu emphasized the importance of taste:

“My products shatter the notion that gluten-free products are tasteless and have an off-texture.”

Expanding Partnerships

Retailers across the U.S., including The Fresh Market, Stop & Shop, Giant, and Shop Rite, have partnered with gluten-free bakeries like Goodman Gluten Free. Founded by Bob Goodman, the company produces a clean-label gluten-free line in a dedicated facility free from gluten, dairy, soy, and peanuts.

Goodman’s products are delivered prepackaged to prevent cross-contamination, making them easy for in-store bakeries to handle. Displaying these products prominently in the bakery section helps draw gluten-free shoppers.

Key Practices for Safe Gluten-Free Handling

The Gluten Intolerance Group advises retailers to:

1. Ensure all gluten-free items arrive prepackaged and sealed.
2. Store products on designated shelves to avoid cross-contamination.
3. Avoid opening prepackaged goods in-store.

Conclusion

By forming partnerships with gluten-free bakeries and implementing robust handling practices, in-store bakeries can cater to the rising demand for gluten-free products. Prioritizing taste, freshness, and safety will enable supermarkets to attract gluten-free shoppers and enhance their competitive edge.