Coeliac Disease: Gluten-free Foods
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will hold discussions with Coeliac UK on difficulties being encountered by coeliac sufferers as they have to buy gluten-free products which are more expensive than other similar non gluten free products.
Answered by Mrs Sharon Hodgson
Ministers and officials regularly engage with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the challenges faced by people living with long-term conditions, including coeliac disease.
The Government recognises the increased costs incurred by people with coeliac disease because they must buy gluten-free options, which are often more expensive than similar non-gluten-free products.
Food prices are determined by commercial suppliers and depend on a range of factors including import prices, domestic agricultural prices, domestic labour and manufacturing costs, and exchange rates. It is not for the Government to set retail food prices or to comment on day-to-day commercial decisions taken by businesses.
More broadly, the Government is taking action to support households with the cost of living, and we will continue to work with the National Health Service and stakeholders to ensure people with coeliac disease receive appropriate support and advice to manage their condition effectively.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →