A collaborative initiative by Forth Valley Food and Drink and Coeliac UK to increase awareness of Gluten Free catering practices has been hailed a huge success.
Back in August the network teamed up with the national charity to offer local food and drink businesses free and low-cost access to gluten free training.
Since then, one hundred Gluten Free training spaces have been snapped up by local cafes and producers across Forth Valley – with each participating business being given two free spots.
Network coordinator, Carolyn McGill said: “We’ve had a fantastic response to the gluten free scheme, with one hundred people across twenty-one local food and drink businesses completing the training.
“It’s been a great way to increase local knowledge of gluten free practices and to create safer eating and drinking experiences across the Forth Valley region for people with coeliac disease.”
Balmaha’s The Oak Tree Inn seized the opportunity to train their whole team.
Manager Steven Dobbin said: “Allergen awareness is a crucial part of running a food and beverage outlet.
“Staff training on this is so important for both front of house team members and our chefs.
“We’re determined to take extra steps to ensure that dining in The Oak Tree Inn is as relaxing and carefree as it can be.
“We have a wide range of options to suit the coeliac diet, and our knowledgeable team are always on hand to advise.”
All twenty-one businesses have now been invited to take part in this year’s Gluten Free fortnight, which kicks off today (14 October).
Owner of The Fintry Inn, Leigh Clark (pictured above with chef Lisa Addison) said: “We’re looking forward to being part of Gluten Free Fortnight with some extra special dishes and delicious home baking for our gluten free customers.”
Other events this year include a gluten free cooking demo and tasting afternoon at Brig o’ Turk Tearoom on Sunday 23 October.
Carolyn McGill said: “Join us to pick up some tips on how to adapt regular recipes and discover some easy shortcuts to successful gluten free baking.
“There’ll also be an opportunity to taste a selection of delicious gluten free produce.”
For further information and to book a free place visit www.glutenfreefortnight.com
Twenty-one local businesses took advantage of the free training scheme:
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