General Mills Announcement
3/31/09

“Thank you for contacting General Mills regarding gluten in Corn Chex cereal. General Mills is reformulating the following Big G Cereals to gluten free status:

· Corn Chex
· Honey Nut Chex
· Strawberry Chex
· Chocolate Chex
· Cinnamon Chex

As was the case with Gluten Free Rice Chex, the barley malt ingredient was removed and replaced with another ingredient. Production has begun, so you may start seeing the gluten free formulas on store shelves now. All 5 products should be widely available across the U.S. by June 1, 2009. As with all reformulated products, both products may be on store shelves at the same time so please read labels/packaging carefully, examining the product packaging to ensure that the cereal inside the box is in fact the new, gluten free product. Look for “NOW GLUTEN FREE” or “GLUTEN FREE” on the front/side/back panels.

In addition, the following Betty Crocker Gluten Free mixes will be available at approximately the same time:

Betty Crocker Gluten Free Brownie Mix
Betty Crocker Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix
Betty Crocker Gluten Free Devils Food Cake Mix
Betty Crocker Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix

It is our goal to help our consumers determine whether or not they can include our products in their diet when they are not labeled Gluten Free. To accurately accomplish this, we believe it is best to refer to the specific ingredients listed on each product package; and for this reason, we do not offer a gluten-free product list.

However, we do understand that ingredients can be confusing. We want you to be assured that if the ingredient label does not list wheat, barley, rye, oats or gluten containing ingredients sourced from these grains, then the product would be gluten-free. Sources of gluten are listed on the label even if the source of gluten is part of another ingredient (such as flavoring or spice). Because ingredients may vary from one package to another due to product reformulation, you should use the products ingredient label to provide you with current and accurate information.”

Amy Peters, Consumer Services

Sams Club raw whole chickens are gluten free. (Post below can be found at the gluten free weight watchers blog.)

PA Legislature proclaims April ‘Celiac Disease Awareness Month.’

Ambler, PA, April 03, 2009 –(PR.com)– Legislation passed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives General Assembly recognizes April 2009 as the state’s official ‘Celiac Disease Awareness Month’. With the passing of House Resolution 153 (HR 153), Pennsylvania takes the lead in raising awareness for celiac disease as the most common and most undiagnosed autoimmune disorder in the United States.

HR 153 was ratified unanimously, 196-0, on March 31st, 2009 with the assistance of its prime sponsor, state representative Craig A. Dally (R).

Geoffrey M. Roche, advocacy chairman for the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) and resident of Bethlehem, PA, collaborated extensively with representative Dally on the creation and development of HR153, and lobbied for its passage in the State House of Representatives.

“I would like to thank my State Representative, Craig Dally, and the entire State House for recognizing the impact this disease has on many Pennsylvanians and for assisting the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness in creating awareness that will ensure individuals with celiac get diagnosed, and correctly manage the disease.” says Roche. “I understand first hand the impact this disease has on one’s life and the need for education and awareness across our entire nation.”

The entire resolution in its entirety can be read on the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness website, www.celiaccentral.org.

Roche’s role in the successful sanctioning of HR153 and his passionate efforts on behalf of NFCA, stem from his personal experience with celiac disease, having been diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder just 11 months ago.

NFCA founder and president Alice Bast describes HR153 as, “‘The first step in reforming the US health care system in relation to autoimmune diseases, preventive care and chronic disease management.”

NFCA and Roche aim to pass similar resolutions in every state nationwide, providing assistance and resources for citizens working on legislative efforts for the purpose of spreading awareness of celiac disease, a disease which current estimates suggest affect 1 in every 133 Americans. Only 120,000 of individuals with the autoimmune digestive disorder, roughly 1 in every 4700, have been diagnosed.

“Early assessment of celiac is crucial in preventing the onset of complications such as other autoimmune disorders, serious illnesses, and some cancers for individuals with this disease.” says Bast.

Those interested in enacting legislation in their states should contact the NFCA at info@celiaccentral.org, by phone (215) 325-1306 ext.101, or visit the ‘Get Involved’ section on the NFCA website, www.celiaccentral.org for information.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune digestive disease that damages the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food. It is triggered by consumption of the protein called gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. Left untreated, people with celiac disease can develop further complications such as other autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, thyroid disease, and some cancers. An estimated three million Americans have celiac disease, but only about 1 in every 4700 with the disease receives an accurate diagnosis. Currently, the only treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet.

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NFCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding for celiac disease that will advance research, education and screening amongst medical professionals, children and adults. Visit www.celiaccentral.org or call 215-325-1306 for further information.

Contact Information
National Foundation for Celiac Awareness
Whitney Ehret
215-325-1306
whitney@celiaccentral.org
www.celiaccentral.org

In Shape magazine, that is — on the cover of the May issue. Actress, author, autism activist, and mother Jenny McCarthy said she ballooned to 211 pounds after the birth of her son, who’s now 6 years old. Weight Watchers helped her slim down since it taught her about portion control and to be conscious of what she eats.

Then three years ago she switched to a diet that’s gluten- and dairy-free, to match her son Evan’s diet. Not only did it help her shed even more weight, but it’s greatly improved her son’s autism symptoms. A typical day consists of an egg white omelet for breakfast, then for lunch and dinner she enjoys fresh fruit and veggies (she purées them to make her own soups) with fish. For snacks she loves “those little packets of nuts from Starbucks.” Jenny also stays strong and flexible by practicing yoga, and is even trying to teach it to her honey, Jim Carrey. Check out the May issue of Shape for her 15-minute yoga sculpting workout.

Source: http://www.fitsugar.com:80/2971971

By Melinda Dennis, MS, RD, LDN
Nutrition Coordinator, Celiac Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Avoid ordering fried foods, such as French fries or taco “basket” shells at a Mexican restaurant, which are fried in the same oil as battered foods or coated fries.

Check to make sure that liquid eggs held in a buffet line for eggs-to-order are not mixed with wheat flour (to keep them from separating).

Ask your server to request that the cooks change their gloves and use a clean skillet and utensils to prepare your food.

If you don’t feel that your needs are being met, ask to speak with the chef or the manager. Carry a restaurant card (available from several of the national celiac support groups and online) that lists safe and prohibited food.

Rice and corn-based cuisines, such as Japanese, Thai, Indian or Mexican, usually have many more naturally gluten free items available than American fast food or standard fare.

If you are with a large group and you prefer not to draw attention to your special diet, order your meal last so that table conversation is flowing and you can take your time. Or excuse yourself and have your conversation with the chef or your server near the kitchen.

If you’ve had a wonderful meal, tip generously, thank the chef and server personally, and tell the restaurant you plan to share your good experience with fellow diners, the local celiac support group and your clinicians. As restaurants are alerted to the needs of those with celiac disease, gluten-free dining out will be more and more enjoyable.

Above content provided by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
http://www.bidmc.org/celiaccenter
For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.

Posted March 2009

Celiac disease – Gluten Free friendly restaurants in Philadelphia (listed alphabetically)

Applebee’s Restaurant
http://www.applebees.com/
Applebee Dietary Inquiries
888-592-7753
You can call this number and someone will provide information on gluten free menu items. I have spoken with them while seated in the restaurant – though you could certainly call ahead of time.

Arpeggio
http://www.arpeggiobyob.com
542 Springhouse Village Center
Springhouse, PA 19477
{GPS} 1101 BETHLEHEM PIKE OR SPRINGHOUSE VILLAGE CENTER
215-646-5055
Mediterranean BYOB. Per my GI doc, the owner is very in tune to the needs of celiac patients.

Boston Style Pizza
447 N Sumneytown Pike
North Wales, PA
(215) 699-3977
Has gluten-free pizza as well as a recently expanded gluten-free menu.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill
http://carrabas.com/index.aspx
2575 Maryland Road
Willow Grove, PA 19090
(215) 659-3950
Has a gluten-free menu

Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse
324 W. Swedesford Road
Berwyn, PA 19312
(610)240-0997
www.charliebrowns.com/
Has a gluten free menu and location information online.

Chipotle
www.chipoltle.com
Plymouth Meeting Mall location
Website has a gluten-free listing. Staff and management were very receptive to requests as well as the food being delicious and healthy.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries
www.fiveguys.com
Check website for local sites – coming soon to K of P mall. Great burgers and fries! Locations I visited were very gluten-friendly.

JB Dawson’s
http://jbdawsons.com/index.html
Has a gluten free menu available online as well as upon request at each location. This is a local chain with five outlets –one near Plymouth Meeting Mall. The corporate Director of Kitchen’s is very Celiac aware as he has family member with Celiac.

Jules Thin Crust Pizza
http://www.julesthincrust.com/
Offers great gluten –free pizza and crusts to make your own. Locations in Doylestown and Newtown.

Legal Seafoods

Home

King of Prussia Mall. Great food and great attention to gluten-free concerns. Gluten-free menu is available.

Morton’s Restaurant
http://www.mortons.com/
King of Prussia Mall location is actually working on an allergy menu for customers, though other locations have been very responsive to gluten-free requests. My waitress, Gina, was very well versed and great at offering gluten-free alternatives.

Outback Steakhouse
http://www.outbacksteakhouse.com/
Has a gluten free menu available online as well as upon request at each location.

Pasta Pomodoro
http://www.pastapomodoronj.com
Won 2007 NFCA Gluten-free cooking competition
Voorhees NJ

PF Chang’s China Bistro
http://www.pfchangs.com/
Great Chinese food. They have a gluten-free menu available and are very responsive to concerns. Plymouth Meeting Mall location is now open.

Redstone American Grill
www.redstonegrill.com
Plymouth Meeting Mall
Have spoken with Director of Culinary Operations from corp office. Gave me local chef’s name and email as well as a listing of gluten-free menu items.

These light and crispy flakes are made with simple pure ingredients – organically grown corn and sea salt. And, Erewhon Corn Flakes are 100% natural, low in sodium, and low fat. Great taste and great nutrition! Allergy Alert: contains corn. Kosher.

Ingredients: Organic corn flour, sea salt.

Product does not contain:
Gluten, Wheat, Soy, Eggs, Dairy, Nuts, Peanuts

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 1 1/4 cup
Serving per container: 6

Amount per Serving: Calories 210, Total Fat 2.5g, Saturated Fat 0g, Trans Fat 0g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 100mg, Total Carbohydrates 26g, Dietary Fiber 3g, Sugars 3g, Protein 2g, vitamin A 10%, vitamin C 2%, calcium 0%, iron 15%

Delicious organic cereal made from the actual whole grain of organic brown rice. After the rice has been carefully toasted, it is glazed with a subtle blend of honey and brown rice syrup that sparkles with sweetness. Then a delicious medley of strawberries, raspberries and blue berries is added. Kosher.

Ingredients: Organic whole grain brown rice, organic brown rice syrup, honey, freeze dried blueberries, freeze dried raspberries, freeze dried strawberries, sea salt, and natural flavor.

Product does not contain:

Gluten, Wheat, Soy, Eggs, Dairy, Nuts, Corn, Peanuts

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 1 cup
Serving per container: 9
Amount per Serving: Calories 120, Total Fat 0.5g, Saturated Fat 0g, Trans Fat 0g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 100mg, Total Carbohydrates 27g, Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 6g, Protein 2g, vitamin A 0%, vitamin C 4%, calcium 0%, iron 2%

This chewy pizza crust is easy to make! Mix requires addition of oil, egg, cheese (optional) and liquid (milk or milk substitute) to make pizza dough, calzones, cracker bread, and more. Yeast free and made in a gluten-free environment.

Ingredients: Manoic (tapioca) flour, modified manoic starch
(100% manoic), salt, minced herbs (basil, garlic, onioin, oregano, thyme).

Product does not contain:

Gluten, Wheat, Soy, Eggs, Dairy, Nuts, Corn, Peanuts

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 0.75 oz.
Serving per container 10
Amount per Serving: Calories 70
Total Fat 0g, Saturated Fat 0g, Trans Fat 0g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 190g, Total Carbohydrates 17g, Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 0g, Protein 0g, Vitamin A 0%, Vitamin C 0%, Calcium 0%, Iron 0%

Delicate crisps and tender puffs of organic brown rice gives you two distinct textures in this exceptional cereal. Rice is glazed with a blend of honey and brown rice syrup that sparkles with sweetness. Besides having great taste, Rice Twice is a fat free, low sodium food you can eat out-of-hand…just bag it for snacks at school, work, or on the road! “Only the purest, finest natural ingredients from the people who coined the term “natural foods.”

Ingredients: Organic brown rice, brown rice syrup, honey, sea salt.

Product does not contain:

Gluten, Wheat, Soy, Eggs, Dairy, Nuts, Corn, Peanuts

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 3/4 cup
Serving per container: 9
Amount per Serving: Calories 120, Total Fat 0g, Saturated Fat 0g, Trans Fat 0g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 60mg, Total Carbohydrates 26g, Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 8g, Protein 2g, vitamin A 0%, vitamin C 0%, calcium 0%, iron 0%