Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign Educates Over 2 Million People
Over 2 million people in the US and Canada will learn about celiac disease and gluten intolerances while they dine out in May! Restaurants offering gluten-free menu options have joined together to raise awareness about celiac disease and other forms of gluten intolerances during May, Celiac Awareness Month.
Auburn, WA (PRWEB) May 4, 2009 -- Over 2 million people in the US and Canada will learn about celiac disease and gluten intolerances while they dine out in May! Restaurants offering gluten-free menu options have joined together to raise awareness about celiac disease and other forms of gluten intolerances during May, Celiac Awareness Month.
Celiac disease affects every 1:133 persons in the US and Canada. It is an autoimmune disease that damages the intestines and can lead to serious health complications. As many as 15 million people suffer other forms of gluten intolerances. The only treatment available to persons with celiac disease and gluten intolerances is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. Total avoidance of proteins in wheat, rye and barley is required. Many foods include these grains, making dining out a frightening prospect over 65% of persons with these conditions. Restaurants that offer gluten-free menu options allow people to dine out with confidence.
Chef to Plate: Celebrating Restaurants Serving Up Gluten-Free Awareness is an international awareness campaign initiated by the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America and endorsed by organizations and companies in the US and Canada. The campaign celebrates restaurants that currently offer gluten free menu options. Many restaurants held a special recognition event on Sunday, May 3. Others will display posters and table tents throughout the month of May.
"We are thrilled by the level of participation. It shows a commitment from restaurants to serve the gluten intolerant community," says Cynthia Kupper, Executive Director of the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America (GIG).
To find restaurants are participating visit: www.glutenfreerestaurants.org/cheftoplate.pdf.
GIG is a national nonprofit organization supporting persons with gluten sensitivities - celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis and other forms of gluten intolerances. The food industry programs offered by GIG have had significant impact on the quality of life of persons living a gluten-free lifestyle. Their Gluten Free Certification and Gluten Free Food Service Accreditation programs provide oversight and monitoring of food manufacturers and food services, based on stringent Best Practices bringing confidence and easy to find products and services. Their Gluten Free Restaurant Awareness program works with restaurants to provide consultation, education, training, and menu reviews by qualified dietitians.
GIG provides education and support to gluten-free consumers through a number of social programs, including conferences, camps, local support and free education materials. For more information about GIG programs visit www.GLUTEN.net
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