In this day and age, gluten-free diets are nothing out of the ordinary. It’s common to hear about people deciding to partake in a gluten-free lifestyle, mainly for the presumed health benefits. However, for some people, going gluten-free is not necessarily an option.
Some people, myself included, cannot have gluten due to sensitivity or Celiac Disease, a condition where the body causes an immune reaction to gluten. This leaves people with only two choices: to avoid gluten or remove it from their diet entirely.
A regular shopping trip on a gluten-restricted diet is not an easily affordable one. On average, a loaf of gluten-free bread costs at least $7, and other replacements for everyday groceries tend to cost at least $5 if you’re lucky enough to find anything at that price point. Other pantry staples like pastas, cereals, and snacks that are gluten free are at similar if not higher price points than bread.
According to the National Institutes of Health, gluten-free products, on average, are 242% more expensive than regular options. This price gauge can take a significant toll on buyers with gluten restrictions, as they are forced to buy these up-priced products due to food and nutrition being a basic necessity.
Mrs. Mankin, a math teacher who is gluten-free herself, participated in a small interview about her thoughts and opinions on the price gauging of products. She agreed that gluten-free products are overpriced, stating that the reason is because of supply and demand.
“Many have a gluten intolerance, but there are also those with Celiac disease who cannot eat gluten at all. When a select few are forced to purchase gluten-free items as a way to even eat, companies will increase prices. It’s all about business, especially if there are few businesses offering gluten-free products,” said Mankin.
From a business perspective, Mankin’s point of view is correct. For people with gluten restrictions, the up-pricing is inconvenient and unaffordable, while for food companies, it’s a great way to capitalize on the buyers’ needs and make more money. “Big business rules the world,” said Mankin. “Individual needs don’t matter to them. As long as people keep purchasing the items, then the people will continue to support them and their practices.”
You may think this is unfair, regardless of your gluten tolerance. Nonetheless, it is a common strategy in the food industry that doesn’t raise eyebrows. When asked if the price was justified, Mankin replied, “No. But in the practice of business, it makes sense. Yes, it’s not fair, but people will continue to support these businesses to eat.”
