Pass the Cheese Sandwich, Hold the Gluten

BOULDER, Colo., Dec. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cheese sandwiches missing  one ingredient – gluten – along with other gluten free choices, will be available on Dec. 12 for all students in the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD). In addition to classic toasted cheese sandwiches, the BVSD school food program now offers a dozen sandwiches in gluten free options, including a Meatball Sub and a Buffalo Chicken sandwich, six gluten free entrees, and a 100 percent gluten free salad bar. Looking to expand its gluten free selections, BVSD Food Service researched and chose a 7-Grain gluten free bread from local and family-owned company, Canyon Bakehouse, based on its whole grain and 'clean food' ingredients.

"Over the last five years we've had more families asking for gluten free options," said Chef Ann Cooper, the "Renegade Lunch Lady," and BVSD Director of Food Services since 2009. "After testing a number of breads, we really liked the taste and texture of Canyon Bakehouse's 7-Grain bread. It provides an opportunity for BVSD families looking for more gluten free delicious choices."

The gluten free dietary trend appears to be growing beyond those with Celiac Disease. A recent Mintel report (2013) found that 36 percent of Americans who eat gluten free foods say they do so for reasons other than gluten sensitivity or Celiac Disease. Mirroring these findings, BVSD's Food Services has seen an increase in parent requests for more gluten free choices. To date, BVSD has eliminated trans-fats, high fructose corn syrup, artificial preservatives and coloring agents from the lunch menu.

"We're honored to be working with Chef Ann and the Boulder Valley School District in support of healthier choices for all students to enjoy," said Christi Skow, co-founder and co-owner of Canyon Bakehouse, and a mother of three. "My son and I both have Celiac Disease, so I'm happy to see a school district advocate for more choices for kids like my son."

About Canyon Bakehouse
Canyon Bakehouse wants everyone to love bread again. The family-owned company, founded in 2009, is a dedicated gluten free artisan bakery located in Loveland, Colo. Made with 100% whole grains and only real-food, clean ingredients, the bakehouse has continued to expand its distribution to more than 4,000 stores nationwide.

SOURCE Canyon Bakehouse