Almost half (48%) were worried about being accidently ‘glutened’, a term used by people diagnosed with coeliac disease to describe when they consume food that has been cross-contaminated with gluten.
People diagnosed with coeliac disease must maintain a strict gluten free diet for the rest of their lives to reduce the risk of very serious complications such as osteoporosis, infertility and although rare, small bowel cancer.
Another poll revealed 60% of respondents said they were less confident in finding gluten free venues compared to before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Coeliac UK has launched their #ShineALightOnCoeliac (10-16 May) campaign that aims to provide resources, tips and advice for people eating away from home that can be shared with those who are catering for them.
Hilary Croft, Coeliac UK chief executive, said: “Trusting other people to provide gluten free food can cause major feelings of anxiety and lead to people avoiding social events.
“The last thing anyone, let alone a young person needs now is more isolation. So we are aiming to shine a light on coeliac disease to make life better for everyone who needs to live gluten free.”
The campaign is also aiming to raise £50,000 to support children with coeliac disease in the future. Nearly half a million people living in the UK with undiagnosed coeliac disease.