Coeliac Disease: Gluten-free Foods

The Government recognises the financial burden that a strict gluten‑free diet can place on people with coeliac disease.

NHS England’s guidance on prescribing gluten-free foods sets out a national framework for primary care, and integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning arrangements in their areas and for supporting general practices to prescribe in line with that framework, taking account of local population needs.

The national position in England remains that gluten-free bread and mixes can be prescribed on the National Health Service for eligible people diagnosed with coeliac disease. However, ICBs can restrict or end the prescribing of gluten-free food.

Gluten-free foods have become more accessible in some supermarkets and online. However, 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 NHS and stakeholders to ensure people with coeliac disease receive appropriate support and advice to manage their condition effectively.