Free festival, free of gluten

ShopRite of Marlton is hosting its Gluten Free Festival Saturday, Oct. 18.

Photo/RavitzFamilyMarkets.com

Like the festival held last month at ShopRite of Medford, this one offers product samples and information from support services. Unlike the past, Gluten Free Garden State is joining the fun this time in an official capacity.

Held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the ShopRite on Route 70 in Evesham, the festival provides an opportunity to speak with representatives from the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the South Jersey Celiac Sprue Association and the Center for Celiac Disease at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Just dessert

All celiacs have been disappointed when they encounter a restaurant or or office party or social gathering where there is absolutely NOTHING gluten-free to eat. On the flip side, we're also pleasantly surprised from time to time, and that's what happened this morning.

My daughter and I arrived at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia about an hour before it opened, so we went across the street to Sister Cities Park. The Milk & Honey cafe had been recommended by academy staff for grabbing a coffee (for me) and a beverage for Bel. Unbeknownst to us, there were gluten-free cheesecake brownies for sale at the counter. (Happy dance!)

All fired up

The Garden State is in full grilling mode and those backyard barbecues can be tricky for celiacs. The Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio has issued a list of tips for parents to keep safe their kids on gluten-free diets.

Photo/National Foundation for Celiac Awareness

The good advice, which is equally valuable for adults, aims to protect celiacs from cross-contamination and ingredients that might be used by hosts who are unfamiliar with the particulars of GF living. Of course, you can host your own gathering at the grill to avoid issues altogether, bring a GF bun or bread for your burger, or offer to contribute a GF dish to share, potluck-style.

Other words of wisdom from the NCH: