Glutenfreeda Burritos (Vegetarian & Dariy Free, Breakfast, Chicken & Cheese, Vegetarian Bean & Cheese) - 30% OFF

Ancient Harvest Quinoa Pastas - 25% OFF
Goldbaum’s Ice Cream Cones (Cocoa Sugar, Cups, Jumbo Cones) - 15% OFF

Envirokidz Cereals, 26 oz - Buy One, Get One 50% OFF

Badger Sun Screens - 20% OFF

New / Returning

Badger Sunscreens - One of the few brands this season to receive a top score by the Environmental Working Group.  In an unregulated field of exaggerated SPF claims above 50 and new disclosures about potentially hazardous ingredients, Badger produces sunscreens that use certified organic ingrdients; SPF 30 Unscented Cream , SPF 30 Unscented Stick, SPF 30 Cream with Bug Repellant and 100% USDA Organic Bug Spray.   

Salba Chia Oil and Capsules - Salba is the richest whole food source of Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber found in nature. Gram for gram, Salba provides 8x more Omega 3s than fish oil (8373 mg per Tbsp), 4x more fiber than flax, 6x more calcium than whole milk and 30% more antioxidants than blueberries.  Salba is certified GF by the Gluten Intolerance Group and it is the only thing processed in their facility, so it is also 8 allergen free.  Chia oil has a pleasant taste, so if you cannot accept cod liver oil, this may be the ticket.  

Rudi’s Breads (Whole Grain, Original White & Cinnamon) - The blogs are all abuzz again over this newest bread creation.  According to to K. Bouldin, “Rudi’s joins Udi’s Gluten Free in the awesome gluten free bread category.”  It is hard to get a better endorsement than that, and so it has been hard to keep in stock.   Stop by for a sample.

Y.E.S. Lipoceutical B12 (methylcobalamin) spray - The most absorbable form of B12 in the most absorbtive medium, spray liposomes.  Most people do not get enough B12 in their diet and celiacs have a particularly difficult time of it.  Other forms of B12, such as cyanocobalamin, must be converted first into methyl-B12 in order for the body to use it, meaning most is lost.  Lipoceutical B12, however, is an atomized liquid sublingual spray that is readily absorbed.

Snyder’s Gluten Free Pretzels
 

Printable Coupons (Cannot be combined with other ongoing sales or published offers.)

$1.00 off Ian’s Products

$1.00 off Pamela’s Products

$1.00 off Crunchmaster Products

$0.50 off any Blue Diamond Product
$1.00 off Glutino Pretzels 

We accept all competitors’ coupons.

We sell in bulk sizes at considerable discounts.

We have gift certificates.

Free Shipping for orders over $100 at www.freefrommarket.com

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D has been implicated in rickets, high blood pressure, childhood type I diabetes, multiple sclerosis, tuberculosis, allergy and even anaphylactic allergic reactions.  The results of a recent study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey published in Pediatrics finds that 7.6 million children (9% of those surveyed) were dangerously deficient and a shocking 50 million U.S. children (61%) produced insufficient vitamin D.  Those living in northern climates are at greater risk of falling into one of these two categories, since the body manufacturers most of its Vitamin D as a byproduct of sun exposure.  (Although it is found in a few foods, like eggs, fish oil and as a dietary supplement.)
            Now, an article published in this months edition of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology  shows a strong correlation between vitamin D deficiency and hospitalizations among asthmatic children.  Asthmatics appear to be at particular risk, because “Corticosteroid use and worsening airflow limitation are associated with lower VitD serum levels in asthmatic patients,” according to Daniel Searing, M.D. in another article in the same journal also this month.  Searing concludes that insufficient vitamin D might increase asthma severity, requiring increased intervention with steroids.  Moreover, according to a JACI review of the article, “effects were observed that support vitamin D supplementation to increase steroid sensitivity, thereby permitting lower doses to obtain an optimal response.”  In an interview, Dr. Searing concluded “that vitamin D supplementation may help reverse steroid resistance in asthmatic children and reduce the effective dose of steroids needed.”  An editorial in JACI this month reviews all recent scholarship on the alergy/asthma connection and looks foward to clinical trials.

Free From Chicago

Mon., July 12, Gluten Intolerance Group, Orland Park Chapter meets at Free From Market, 14482 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park, For agenda and other information contact the group leaders, Linda or Jen at support@chicagoglutenfree.com or 847-217-1317.  The group meets every 2nd Monday of the month.

 
Tues., July 13 - Gluten Intolerance Group, Evanston Chapter meets at Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery 2902 Central Street - 6:30pm.  For agenda and other information contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty at support@chicagoglutenfree.com or 847-217-1317. 

 
Wed., July 14 - Gluten Intolerance Group, Northbrook meets at Sunset Foods, 1127 Church St. - 6:30 pm.  For agenda and other information contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty at support@chicagoglutenfree.com or 847-217-1317. 
 
Tues., July 20 - Gluten Intolerance Group, Chicago Chapter meets at the Great Taste Cafe, Second Floor of McClurg Fitness Center, 355 N. Grand - 6pm.  For agenda and other information contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty at support@chicagoglutenfree.com or 847-217-1317.

Thurs., July 29, 6:00 -10:00 pm — Bocce, Bowling & GF Appetizers and Desert annual fundraiser for the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center at Pinstripes, 1150 Willow Rd., Northbrook, IL.  Tickets may be purchased here.  
 
Sun., Oct. 17, 11:00 - FAAN Food Allergy Walk, 1700 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (Lincoln Park).  Now is the time to start planning your team for the annual fundraiser for food allergy research.  Register here.  Founded in 1991 by Anne Munoz Furlong, the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) is the world leader in information about food allergy, a potentially life-threatening medical condition that affects approximately 12 million Americans, or one out of every 25, and is rapidly increasing in prevalence. 

Recalls 

Peanut, July 12 - Champion Nutrition is recalling “Champion Nutrition Chocolate Peanut Butter Pure Whey Protein” due to undeclared peanuts.

Soy & Wheat, July 7 - M&K II Co. is recalling “Firehouse Jerky Mild Beef Jerky Smoke Flavor Added” and “Firehouse Jerky Pepper Beef Jerky Smoke Flavor Added” due to undeclared soy and wheat. 
 
Peanut, July 2 - Setton International Foods is recalling its Fairway brand Energy Mix and Setton Farms brand Total Energy mix due to undeclared peanut. 
 
Milk, July 1 - San Antonio Packing Company is recalling “APCO Brand Meats Cervelat Summer Sausage” due to undeclared milk. 
 
Milk, June 20 - Domega Ny International Co., Ltd is recalling its Fuma Custard Pie due to undeclared milk. 
 
Peanut, June 30 - I Dolce Inc. is recalling its Gelatto due to undeclared milk powder. 

 
Milk & Wheat, June 25 - Pure Base Distrbution is recalling its “Pure Base Garlic Spread - Concentrate” and “Pure Base Garlic Spread - Ready to Spread” due to undeclared milk and wheat. 
 
Pecans, Milk & Coconut, June 18 - Rich Products Corporation is recalling Allen Bavarian Crème Filling due to undeclared pecans, milk and coconut.  This is not a retail item; it was sent to food service and bakeries nationwide.  So be sure to inquire, wherever you eat out.

Udi’s Bread Cases: $39.52 case of 8 (here)

In Store Sales (until 7/16/10) 

New / Returning

Udi’s Cinnamon Rolls & Chocolate Muffins — long awaited.

Sweet Ali’s GF/CF Cupcakes — The first order disappeared in 3 days — Chocolate or Vanilla with Chocolate or Vanilla Frosting in a $9.99 Four Pack.  Perfect for birthday parties, play dates, or … for having a cupcake that tastes great. 

Udi’s Bagels — It is a shame to call these gluten free.

Celiac Specialties GF/CF Powdered Donut Holes

Gluten Freeda Sugar Cookie & Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

King Arthur GF Flour and Mixes – GF All Purpose Flour, GF Brownie Mix, GF Chocolate Cake, GF Cookie Mix.  These will be everywhere soon, but the best price will always be at Free From Market.

Salba Chia Oil and Capsules — Salba is the richest whole food source of Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber found in nature. Gram for gram, Salba provides 8x more Omega 3s than fish oil (8373 mg per Tbsp), four times more fiber than flax, six times more calcium than whole milk and 30 percent more antioxidants than blueberries.  Certified GF by GIG.

Printable Coupons (Cannot be combined with other ongoing sales or published offers.)

$1.00 off Ian’s Products

$1.00 off Pamela’s Products

$1.00 off Crunchmaster Products

$0.50 off any Blue Diamond Product
$1.00 off Glutino Pretzels 

We accept all competitors’ coupons.

We sell in bulk sizes at considerable discounts.

Have a small business?  Call (708) 590-6205 for wholesale pricing.

Free Shipping for orders over $100 at www.freefrommarket.com

Special Tasting This Sat. 6/19, 11:00-2:00 pm

*** Toni from Heavenly Peirogi will be sampling her divinely inspired Peirogis and maybe some other items.  Select peirogi will be on sale for $6.00. 

*** Debbie Gordon from L&J Popcorn will be sampling her GF Kettle, Cheddar and Caramel popcorns.   

Achoo!

Pleanty of rain has made for a brutal grass, weed and pollen season.  Blue Air HEPA air purifiers offer a minimum 5 clean air changes per hour in most average sized bedrooms and filter 99.97% of all particulate (pollen spores, pet dander, dust mite resicue, etc.) down to 0.1 microns.  Filters last for six months and some models come packaged with 3 filters.  The entire Blue Air line is 10% OFF through July 16th.

Shelly’s Coconut Milk Ice Cream

This delicious ice cream recipe is 8 allergen free and easily made in a standard frozen drum-type ice cream maker.
 
Ingredients
4 Cups of So Delicious Coconut Milk
¾ Cups Sugar
½ Cup Cocoa Powder
1 Tsp Vanilla
1 Tbsp Arrowroot Flour
 
Directions

Blend 1 cup of coconut milk and arrow root over medium heat until blended.  Add the rest of the coconut milk and cocoa powder.  Continue blending.  Add sugar and blend until sugar is dissolved.  Remove from heat and add vanilla.  Refrigerate overnight or until as cool as your refrigerator will make it.  Add to your ice cream maker and blend until thick.  Freeze immediately.

Free From Chicago

Tues., June 15, 6:00 pm - Gluten Intolerance Group meets at the Great Taste Cafe, 355 E. Grand Avenue (McClurg Court - 2nd Floor near fitness center).  There will be a general support group meeting with samples from the restaurant.  Parking is $2 in movie theater lot.  Restaurant closes at 6.  Come early if you want to order dinner.  Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no fee.  For more information, contact the group leader Jen Cafferty or visit the Chicago GIG website. 

Fri., June 18th, 5:00 pm - Gluten Free Fried Chicken Night at Ina’s 1235 W. Randolph (map).  Ina Pinkney will open Ina’s at 5 p.m. for a $30, three-course, gluten-free meal.  Entree choices will be fried chicken, pan-seared salmon and vegetable risotto.  For reservations, call (312) 226-8227.
 
Wed., June 23rd, 7:00 pm - Flavour Cooking School in Forest Park, IL.  $50 per person.  Advanced Registration Required. Summer Barbeque Party taught by Jen Cafferty.  Menu:  Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Salad with Pine Nuts, Spicy Cajun Ribs, Apple Jicama Slaw, Perfect Cornbread and Summer Berry Pie.
 
Thurs, July 8, 6:30 pm - Gluten Intolerance Group meets at Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery, 2902 Central St., Evanston.  Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no fee.  For more information, contact the group leader Jen Cafferty or visit the Chicago GIG website.  Also ask about her new kids group in Oak Park.
 
Mon., July 12, 6:00 pm - Gluten Intolerance Group meets at Free From Market, 14482 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park.  Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no fee.  Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no fee.  For more information, contact the group leader Jen Cafferty or visit the Chicago GIG website. Also ask about her new kids group in Oak Park.
 
Wed., July 14, 6:30 pm - Gluten Intolerance Group meets at Sunset Foods, 1127 Church St.  Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no fee.  For more information, contact the group leader Jen Cafferty or visit the Chicago GIG website. Also ask about her new kids group in Oak Park.
 
Sun., Oct. 17, 11:00 - FAAN Food Allergy Walk, 1700 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (Lincoln Park).  Now is the time to start planning your team for the annual fundraiser for food allergy research.  Register here.  Founded in 1991 by Anne Munoz Furlong, the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) is the world leader in information about food allergy, a potentially life-threatening medical condition that affects approximately 12 million Americans, or one out of every 25, and is rapidly increasing in prevalence. 

Recalls 

Milk, June 12 - Bimbo Bakeries USA is recalling Bimbo Soft White Bread due to undeclared milk.
 
Sulfites, June 11 - Sirob Imports is recalling Strawberry Farms Sun Dried Tomatoes due to undeclared sulfites.
 
Egg, June 10 - Domega NY International Co., LTD is recalling its Fuma Custard Pie due to undeclared egg.
 
Tree Nuts, June 10 - Kroger is recalling Deluxe Chocolate Paradise Ice Cream due to undeclared tree nuts.  The product was for sale in Kroger, Jay C, Food 4 Less, Hilander, Owen’s, Pay Less and Scott’s stores in Illinois and Indiana.
 
Sulfites, June 4 - Eastern Fish is recalling Hannaford and Bloom Private Brand Frozen Raw Extra Jumbo Shrimp Packaged in 16 oz. Bags due to undeclared sulfites.
 
Milk, May 30 - Better Made Snack Foods is recalling its Better Made Special Original Potato Sticks(3 oz containers) due to undeclared milk. 
 
Wheat, Milk & Soy, May 27 - Wally’s Nut House, LLC is recalling the following products due to undeclared wheat, milk and soy: “Tailgate Crunch Mix”, “Sweet Cajun Heat Mix”, “Country Western Mix”, “Cranberry Raisin Mix”, “Party Mix, “Hot ‘n Spicy Mix”, and “Louisiana Cajun Mix”

 
Sulfites, May 24 - So Shing Hing (USA) Trading Co Ltd is recalling its “Dried Melon” due to undeclared sulfites.

Bread, wine, camaraderie, April 24.

Directions

30% OFF an extensive line of NOW Supplements

25% OFF GlutenFreeda Instant Oatmeals

40% OFF All Nature’s Path Bulk-Size Cereals

30% OFF Udi’s Lemon Streusel & Pizza Crust

New / Returning

NOW Supplements – Just a handful of manufacturers comply with the Food Allergen Consumer Protection Act of 2006 (FALCPA), but NOW with its long history in Chiacgo for affordability and superior quality, began producing FALCPA compliant products early on.  Feeling great is as affordable as ever with a 30% off introductory sale.

Sinfully Gluten Free Hamburger Buns — These excellent hamburger buns are sold in an affordable 2 pack.  A limited supply arrives this Friday, March 19.

Heavenly Peirogi — These are flat amazing.  Handmade GF potato, cheese and portabello mushroom peirogi.  Stop by Saturday , March 20th for a taste.

Mrs. Roben’s Mixes — Yep, they’re back!

Gluten Free Oats — Made by celiacs for celiacs, so they are grown in dedicated fields, processed on dedicated machinery, ELISA tested down to less than 5 parts per million at the plant and then tested again by the University of Nebraska.  These are superior quality.

In-Store Coupons

$3.00 OFF ALL RenewLife Norwegian Fish Oil Capsules

FREE RenewLife First Omega Fish Oil Caps with the purchase of Ultimate Flora Probiotics - at $37.99, a 20% savings.

$1.00-$0.50 OFF all Earth Friendly cleaners

Save The Date: The Gluten Free Bread Roundup, April 24. 

The Gluten Free Bread Roundup returns, Saturday, April 24.  This year’s tasting will feature unfamiliar breads from over 30 dedicated gluten and (common) allergen free bakeries from across the country.  Come break bread with us again as we vote on our favorites in this huge blind taste test of the nation’s finest GF products.  All information goes back to the bakers but only the top 3 bakeries (by concensus) will be revealed.  The best products will be available at Free From Market first.  Last year’s big discovery was Udi’s, but the gluten free world is changing fast and there are some real gems out there.  The younger and smaller brands are driving quality and producing products that are just plain better than what contains common allergens and gluten.  Let’s give them our support.

Bread, wine, camaraderie, April 24. 

Tasting, Saturday, March 19

Stop by this Saturday from 11:00-2:00 pm and try the best peirogi in your life from the creator of Heavenly Peirogi.

Herbs Supplements for Seasonal Allergy

 
Some herbs like astragalus and quercetin are excellent natural antihistamines.  With Spring-time allergies now upon us, the University of Maryland Medical Center has posted extensive surveys of the scientific research so far completed on the following:

 
Astragalus

Devil’s Claw

Evening Primrose

Gama-Linolenic Acid (GLA)

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

Licorice

Omega-6 Fatty Acid

Quercetin

Skullcap

Spirulina

Vitamin C

Gluten Free Chicago

Thurs., April 1, 6:30 pm - The Gluten Intolerance Group, Evanston Chapter meets at Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery, 1127 Church St., Evanston.  Kim Lutz of the Welcoming Kitchen will discuss “Gluten Free Abundance, The Joys of Naturally Gluten Free Foods,” and giving away copies of her new book.  For more information, contact the group leader, Jan Cafferty: support@chicagoglutenfree.com, 847-217-1317 
 

Mon., April 12, 6:00-7:30 pm - The Gluten Intolerance Group, Orland Park Chapter meets at Free From Market, 14482 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park, IL.  Debbie Gordon, board member of the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center will discuss ‘Celiac Disease News and Gluten Intolerance Life Skills”.  For more information, contact the group leader, Jan Cafferty: support@chicagoglutenfree.com, 847-217-1317. 

 
Sat.-Sun., April 17-18  Gluten Free Cooking Expo will be held at the Lisle Wyndham Hotel in Lisle, IL.  This is a two day gluten free bonanza featuring cooking demonstrations from top chefs, vendor fair with 50+ new products on display, expert lectures, and gluten free baking secrets revealed.  This is one not to miss.  
 
Sat., April 24, 11:00-5:00 pm - The Gluten Free Bread Roundup at Free From Market, 14482 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park.  Call for more information: (708) 590-6205.
 
May 10, 7:00-9:00 pm - MOCHA (Mothers of Children Having Allergies) meets at Highland Park Hospital, 777 Park Avenue West, Highland Park, IL, Meeting Room 2 (basement).  For more information, contact Denise Bunning at dbunning@comcast.net. 

 
Fri., May 14, 7:00 pm - The University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center will host its next Annual Benefit at the Swissotel-Chicago! Purchase tickets here. 
 
Mon., May 17, 7:00-9:30 pm - POCA (Parents of Children with Allergies) will meet at Good Samaritan Hospital, 3551 Highland Ave., Downers Grove, IL. Ruchi Gupta, MD will deliver an update on the Latest Research Findings in Food Allergy.  Contact Kellee Konieczny (815)603-4838, kkonieczny2@earthlink.net  or Kristin Miller (630) 251-3750 for more information. 

Recalls 

Food Allergy Recalls (March 3-17, 2010)
 
MILK, 3/15/10 - Fernando’s Food Corporation is recalling “Casa Solana Beef, Chicken and Textured Vegetable Protein Product Enchilada” due to undeclared milk.

MILK, 3/8/10 - Rumiano Cheese Co. is recalling “Landmark Raw Goat Cheddar Cheese” due to undeclared milk.

SOY & FISH 3/5/10 Ed Roller, Inc. is recalling Wegman’s Food You Feel Good About Medium Seafood Sauce due to undeclared soy and anchovies.  The product was distributed to Wegman’s stores in NY, PA, NJ, VA and MD.

Salmonella Recalls (March 3-17, 2010)

Salmonella recalls have exploded — 28 in one week!  The “potential” contamination stems from Basic Food Flavors, Inc., a national supplier of hydrolyzed vegetable protein.  The ingredient is common in processed foods but rare in gluten free versions.  Since the list really too long to list here, see the FDA’s Recall Website for future salmonella recalls.  The FDA considers the affected foods unsafe to eat, and these include household names common to every kitchen. 

Udi’s GF Au Naturel Granola

French Meaddow GF Pizza Crusts — Get a $1 Off Coupon Here.

Toffuti Marry Me GF-CF Frozen Bars

Deerfield’s GF Bakery Baguettes (2 pack) — Bake for 10 min for a real baguette, artisan crust, steamy soft in the middle.

Deerfield’s Chips and Wally, and Brownie Cookies.

Glow GF Cookies (Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate, Ginger Snap and Snickerdoodles)

In-Store Coupons

$3.00 OFF ALL RenewLife Norwegian Fish Oil Capsules

FREE RenewLife First Omega Fish Oil Caps with the purchase of Ultimate Flora Probiotics - at $37.99, a 20% savings.

$1.00-$0.50 OFF all Earth Friendly cleaners

Printable Coupons

$1.00 off any French Meadow Product
$0.55 off any Enjoy Life Product
$0.50 off any Blue Diamond Product

Wholesale 

Have a group, restaurant, bakery or food service?  Want a wholesale or multi-case order?  We buy direct, you save.  Contact the store for info: (708) 590-6205.

We accept all competitors’ coupons

We sell in bulk sizes at considerable discounts.

We ship nation-wide – Free Shipping for orders over $100

Easter Bunnies are Coming! 

We have a limited number of 6″ chocolate Easter Bunnies coming from a dedicated, gluten, dairy, egg and nut free facility.  Call 708-599-6205 to reserve.

Potential Food Allergy Therapy Worth Watching

Recently a few small and very experimental studies have demonstrated promise for one day having a therapy for food allergies.  The studies involve administering incremental micro-doses of the very food to which patients are allergic, thereby decreasing IgE and retraining the body’s immune system to become more tolerant of the offending food.  A small study at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center resulted in 29/30 participants being able to tolerate 7x more milk than before the study began. A similar study also at JHU with 45 participants involving egg concluded with 21/40 being able to tolerate 5 g of eggs without having a reaction.  Last year a slightly different study also at JHU involving milk had similar promising results for 16/18 patients, and a recent small study at Duke University involving 15 patients resulted in 9 of the 15 being able to eat peanuts regularly.  A larger peanut allergy study is being planned at Cambridge University involving 104 peanut allergic patients.  
 
These studies amount to controlled incremental food challenges.  They are experimental, potentially very dangerous and always done in hospitals.  In fact, every patient has allergic reactions when dosage is increased and some experience anaphylaxis. Do not try this yourself.  There is no cure for food allergy.  However, do watch and wait, as repeated studies in different countries mean the medical community is very interested and that a real treatment could be around the corner.  

Top 10 Things Food Restricted Consumers Should Know about Food Recalls and FDA Oversight
  
1.  Most product recalls are initiated voluntarily.  The venue of the announcement, the language used and the scope of the recall itself are generally determined by the company issuing the recall.

2.  Less than 10% of consumer complaints to the FDA result in a recall, according to a 2008 Chicago Tribune article.

3.  Not all food allergy recalls are reported by the FDA.  Many are posted on other websites, which only complicates the matter for consumers. 

4.  Once a recall is issued, no universal mandate is issued to retail establishments to pull the recalled product from the shelves.  This too is volountary. 

5.  If a product has any detectable amount of any of the Top 8 Food Allergens (dairy, egg, wheat, soy, fish, shell fish, tree nuts, or peanuts) and that ingredient does not appear in the ingredients panel, it is considered mislabeled and illegal, according to the 2004 Food Allergen Labeling Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA).

6.  “Gluten Free” has not been defined by the FDA or any law and so there are no recalls issued for undeclaired gluten.  It is only by convention that “gluten free” curently means no more than 20 parts per million of gluten, a level generally considered safe for Celiacs, but NOT for those with a wheat allergy, and not necessarily free from all gluten.  Click here for more.

7. Advisory Labels (i.e. “may contain … made on shared equipment with …, etc.”) are neither required, nor suggested, nor regulated by any U.S. oversight body, and so not covered by FALCPA at all.  Contrary to popular belief, advisory labels are not legal cover, see #5 above and here.

8.  A recent independent audit of products with milk advisory labels found that, 35% contained detectable levels of milk. One must assume that this is representative.  

9.  The FDA is extremely under-staffed, which is why recalls follow trends.  This week it was salmonella, last week there were food allergy recalls, before that it was hazelnuts, etc.  This all means that potentially dangerous products are under-reported.  According to a summer 2009 report, the FDA inspects less than 1% of all foods imported into the U.S.

10.  Your voice as a consumer is best heard by getting involved in one of our many fine advocacy groups, such as CSA, GIG, FAAN or FAI [psst: It is because of groups like these and countless activists that a food allergy labeling law exists at all.]

Gluten Free Cooking Expo 

The Gluten Free Cooking Expo is returning to the Lisle Wyndham Hotel this April 17-18.  This is shaping up to be The gotta’-be-there-GF-event of 2010.  Here’s why you should register: two full-days of gluten-free cooking demonstrations by notable chefs, cookbook authors and nutritionists; printed recipes so you can follow along, take notes and ask questions about successful replacement ingredients for common allergens such as soy, sugar, egg, dairy and corn; learn how to prepare each dish, and getting the chance to taste them as well; now 60 vendors will be on hand sampling new products; gluten free gift bag and a gourmet gluten free lunch included.  Register here today!

Gluten Free Chicago

Mon., March 8 — MOCHA (Mothers of Children Having Allergies) meets 7:00 - 9:00 pm at Highland Park Hospital, 777 Park Avenue West, Highland Park, IL 60035, meeting room 2 (in the basement).  Special guest: Sunshine Best.  Call 847-432-8000 for more information.

[Meeting Date Change] *Tues. March 9 — Gluten Intolerance Group, Orland Park meets at PF Chang’s for dinner at 6:00 pm, 14135 South La Grange Road, Orland Park, IL 60462-1159.  $25 all inclusive dinner, tip, tax and non-alcoholic drinks: Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Fried Rice, Moo Goo Gai Pan, Chang’s Spicy Chicken, Ginger Chicken with Broccoli, Flourless Chocolate Dome — Served Family Style.  Vegetarian Options available.  Please RSVP to the group leader, Jen Cafferty: jen@gfreelife.com or 847-217-1317.  Normally this group meets every second Monday of the month at Free From Market.

Gluten Intolerance Group, Northbrook meets at 1127 Church Street at 6:30 pm.  Contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty for more information: jen@glutenfreeclasses.com or 847-217-1317.

Salmonella — 3/1/10 - Heartland Foods, Inc. is recalling its “Coarse Ground Black Pepper” because of possible contamination with salmonella.
 
Salmonella, 3/1/10 - T. Marzetti Company is recalling a number of its Spinach, Ranch and Veggie Dips, sold in plastic tubs under the brands “T. Marzetti“, “Great Value” and “Oak Lake Farms” brands, due to possible contamination with salmonella.  The dips were distributed nationwide to popular grocery stores.  Click here for a complete list of the products affected by the recall.

Salmonella, 2/26/10 - Johnny’s Fine Foods is recalling its Johnny’s French Dip Powdered Au Jus because of possible contamination with salmonella.  The product was made using hydrolyzed vegetable protein manufactured by Basic Food Flavors, Inc. Las Vegas, NV, which initiated a recall of the hydrolyzed vegetable protein due to Salmonella contamination.
 
Salmonella, 2/26/10 - American Pecan Co. is recalling its Pecans because of possible contamination with salmonella.  Distribution was confined to TX.
 
Salmonella, 2/25/10 - Wholesome Spice is recalling 25 Lb. Boxes Of Crushed Red Pepper due to possible contamination with salmonella.  The 25 lb bags were distributed in the Northwestern U.S. not to retail level customers, but to food manufacturers.
 
Salmonella, 2/25/10 - Thumb Oilseed is recalling its Soy Grits and Soy Flour because of possible contamination with salmonella.  Thumb Oilseed distributed these products to its wholesale clients and initiated the recall after an abnormal test result from its routine sampling program.
 
*Wheat, 2/22/10 - Wm H Leahey Associates is recalling its “Carbotrol Plus Sugar-Free Puddings” (chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, banana and lemon) due to undeclared wheat.  The product was distributed nationwide and in Puerto Rico.
 
*Milk, 2/22/10 - Rudolph Foods is recalling its “Pepe’s Louisiana Hot Gigante Cracklins,” “7-Select Louisiana Hot Onion Rings” and “Rudolph’s Louisiana Hot OnYums” due to undeclared milk.  The products were distributed in AZ, CA, NV, OR and WA.

Follow FDA recalls on Twitter here.

Mon.-Sat. 10:00-6:00

Sun. 12:00-4:00

Follow us on Twitter for instant updates!

Special Udi’s Bread Sale: $5

Good news!  We’ve found a new supplier of Udi’s products who does not run out, so we won’t run out … AND , they have offered us a promotional discount for our first shipment, which we are passing on to you this weekend.  So, through Feb. 21, Udi’s breads are on sale at $5.00 / loaf.

(psst: coming soon to Free From Market Udi’s GF Granola, Cinnamon Rolls and Bagels)

New / Returning

ReadiSorb Liposomal B-12 Spray (methylcobalamin) — The Bs are often suggested for chronic malabsorbtion, but if you take a B-complex containing cyanocobalamin B-12, chances are you are getting little to no B-12 at all, as this form must first be converted into methylcobalamin, the form the body can use.  At 500 mcg per cherry flavored spray, this unique product is even more bio-available than tablet or powdered methylcobalamin, due to its liposomal delivery. 

Lipoceutical Glutathione — The body’s most powerful antioxidant … certainly not for everyone, but if you’ve done your homework and you know what this is, you know it is the best, most useful form of glutathione on the market today.  For scientific literature on how glutathione can benefit those with allergy or CD, see Peter. 

Joan’s GF Great Bakes Bagels — Plain, Sesame, Everything and Cinnamon.  Pop in the toaster for the best homemade bagel you have ever had.

Joan’s GF Great Bakes Hoagie Rolls

(2/package) — Toast and serve, like the bagels.

**Katz’ GF White Bread — Don’t toast, just thaw and eat right out of the bag.  It is a phenomenon.

Katz’ GF Honey Muffins, Raspberry Mini-Turnovers (hamantaschen), Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Colored Sprinkle Cookies.  If you have not tried Katz products yet, you are missing out!

Henry & Lisa’s GF Wild Alaskan Fish Nuggets

Bob’s Red Mill GF Vanilla Cake Mix and GF Shortbread Mix

Shelton’s GF Sausages and Hot Dogs

Better Batter Pancake Mix and Brownie Mix – Made with the Better Batter All Purpose GF Flour, so they substitutions well and come in larger, economical sizes. 
  

In-Store Sale (until 3/3/10)

25% off All Midel Cookies
20% off All Glutenfreeda’s Instant Oatmeal
10% off All Enjoy Life Cookies
20% off All Country Life GF Vitamins

In-Store Coupons

$3.00 OFF

all RenewLife Norwegian Fish Oil Capsules

FREE RenewLife First Omega Fish Oil Caps with the purchase of Ultimate Flora Probiotics - at $37.99, a 20% savings.

Printable Coupons

$1.00 off any French Meadow Product
$0.55 off any Enjoy Life Product
$0.75 off 2 Enjoy Life Boom Choco Boom Chocolate Bars
$0.50 off any Blue Diamond Product

We accept all competitors’ coupons

We sell in bulk sizes at considerable discounts.

We ship nation-wide — Free Shipping for orders over $100.

Katz GF Sampling Sat. 2/20

If you have not tried this excellent line of products, you are in for a treat.  Stop by this Saturday, 2/20 and try their Rasberry Mini-Turnovers (hamantaschen), Sprinkled Sugar Cookies, and Cinnamon Rugelach. 

Their sliced sandwich bread is also excellent (no-toast, no fuss) and the Honey Muffins are to die for.  Also available from Katz are their marble loaf, chocolate rugelach and sandwich rolls.

Gluten Free Cooking Expo 

The Gluten Free Cooking Expo is returning to the Lisle Wyndham Hotel this April 17-18.  This is shaping up to be the gotta’ be there GF event of 2010.  Here’s why you should register: two full-days of gluten-free cooking demonstrations by notable chefs, cookbook authors and nutritionists; printed recipes so you can follow along, take notes and ask questions about successful replacement ingredients for common allergens such as soy, sugar, egg, dairy and corn; learn how to prepare each dish, and getting the chance to taste them as well; over 50 vendors will be there presenting new products; gluten free gift bag and a gourmet gluten free lunch included.  Register here today!

Gluten Free Chicago

 
Mon., Feb 22 — POCA (Parents of Children With Allergies), DuPage County meets 7:00-9:00 at Good Samaritan Hospital, Health and Wellness Center, 3551 Highland Ave., Downers Grove, IL.  Guest Speakers will discuss “New Offerings for Food Allergic Consumers: A Discussion of Product Development and Safe Dining. 

Thurs., March 4 — Gluten Intolerance Group, Evanston meets at Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery 2902 Central Street at 6:30pm.  Contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty for more information: jen@glutenfreeclasses.com or 847-217-1317.
 
Mon. March 8 — Gluten Intolerance Group, Orland Park meets at Free From Market at 6:00 pm.  Contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty for more information: jen@glutenfreeclasses.com or 847-217-1317.
 
Mon., March 8 — MOCHA (Mothers of Children Having Allergies) meets 7:00 - 9:00 pm at Highland Park Hospital, 777 Park Avenue West, Highland Park, IL 60035, meeting room 2 (in the basement).  Call 847-432-8000 for more information.
 
Wed., March 10 — Gluten Intolerance Group, Northbrook meets at 1127 Church Street at 6:30 pm.  Contact the group leader, Jen Cafferty for more information: jen@glutenfreeclasses.com or 847-217-1317.Gluten Free Cooking Expo will be held at the Lisle Wyndham Hotel in Lisle, IL.  This is a two day gluten free bonanza featuring cooking demonstrations from top chefs, vendor fair with 50+ new products on display, expert lectures, and gluten free baking secrets revealed.  This is one not to miss.  Discount for advanced registration.

April 17-18 

Recalls 

Peanuts — Feb. 17, 2010 - Walong Marketing, Inc. Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Flying Horse Black and White Sesame Chewy Candy due to undeclared peanuts. 
 

Soy — Feb. 17, 2010 - The Murphy House is recalling “The Murphy House Premium Pork Barbecue; Cooked, Unskinned Pork with Barbecue Sauce Added” due to undeclared soy.

Salmonella — Feb. 12, 2010, Nature’s Variety is recalling its Raw Frozen Chicken Diets due to possible contamination with salmonella. 
 

Listeria — Feb. 10, 2010 - Estrella Family Creamery is recalling Red Darla Cheese Due to Possible Health Risks, due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes

Tree Nuts — Feb. 10, 2010 - Stop & Shop is removing from sale its 24oz. Party Platter Cookies, due to undeclared almonds and almond paste.

Tree Nuts — Feb. 10, 2010 - Giant Food is recalling its 24 oz. Party Platter Cookies due to undeclared almonds and almond paste.

Salmonella — Feb. 10, 2010 - Trader Joe’s is recalling its Chocolate Chip Chewy Coated Granola Bars due to possible contamination with salmonella.

Tree Nuts — Feb. 05, 2010 - Turkey Hill Dairy is recalling its Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream due to possible contamination with almonds.  The recall is limited to PA.

Wheat, Egg & Soy — Feb. 04, 2010 - Cousins Products, Llc, is recalling its Spinach Vinaigrette due to undeclaired Egg, Soy, and Wheat.  The product was distributed in LA, MI, TX, FL, IL and VA from June 2009 until the present.  The FDA warns: “People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to egg, soy, or wheat run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.”

Egg — Feb. 03, 2010 - Pierino Frozen Foods Inc. is recalling its Jumbo Shells with Cheese due to undeclared egg.  There have been confirmed allergic reactions to this product, which was distributed in OH, WV, PA, IN, CO, TX, KT, NC, VA & FL.

Follow FDA recalls on Twitter here. 

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