Each person is different, which is why it can be tricky to run a restaurant that caters to everyone. However, with more and more people developing gluten intolerances like celiac disease, it can be hard to know what to offer and how a simple menu mistake could harm one of your guests. From loaf breads to desserts, education is key. Here’s a closer look at gluten and those who can’t have it.

Understanding Gluten Intolerances

What Is Gluten? 

When flour and water combine, gluten is formed, which is a protein found in barley, wheat, and rye. Gluten is what gives dough its soft, elastic texture and what causes bread to be slightly stretchy after baking. 

Gluten is found in a long list of prepared loaf breads and other baked goods, including pasta, cereal, candy bars, rolls, breadsticks, and even many sauces since flour can be used to thicken a sauce. Gluten is also found in rye and barley products, including many beers, malts, and yeasts. 

Why Do Many People Have to Go Gluten-Free? 

Most people can eat and tolerate gluten properly. However, in people with gluten sensitivities or intolerances, they exhibit an allergic response that damages the villi present on the intestinal walls.

The damage to these villi makes it impossible to absorb nutrients from the bread and instead sparks gastrointestinal issues like cramps and diarrhea. Gluten intolerances have even been tied to serious issues like thyroid disease, osteoporosis, infertility, and even some forms of cancers. 

Fortunately, by avoiding all forms of gluten and changing their diet, people with these health issues can live relatively normal, healthy lives. A range of products can even be made from non-gluten flours, helping people to enjoy foods like sandwiches made from loaf breads. 

If you run a busy restaurant and more and more clientele are requesting gluten-free loaf breads, turn to EuroPan in Hialeah, FL. With a full product selection that contains everything from gluten-free demi-baguettes to specialty European breads like Gallega and ciabatta, they can help to make your eatery everyone’s favorite place to grab a bite. To find out more about the delicious breads they bake fresh every day, visit their website or give their headquarters a call at (305) 392-5555.