admin A new federal petition seeks a $1,000 tax credit for Canadians with coeliac disease, including Winnipeg bakery owner Betsy Hiebert, who faced challenges after her diagnosis.
When first diagnosed over a decade ago, Hiebert felt overwhelmed, describing the experience as frightening. She now runs Cocoabeans Gluten-Free Bakery, but recalls how isolating it was when she had to avoid foods that once seemed safe.
“You feel excluded, unable to fully join in social gatherings,” she shared. The steep cost of gluten-free products added to the stress. Data from Coeliac Canada shows gluten-free foods can be 150% to 500% more expensive than regular items. For instance, Hiebert’s husband can buy a standard loaf of bread for $6.99, while her gluten-free loaf costs $11.
The price spike is largely due to the limited supply of certified gluten-free ingredients. Hiebert explained that a 50-pound bag of oats typically costs $40, but certified gluten-free oats are $100 due to strict safety standards.
Christa Dubesky, president of the Canadian Coeliac Association (CCA) Manitoba Chapter, highlighted the health risks, noting that even trace amounts of gluten can trigger severe symptoms.
“We grow plenty of oats in Canada, but they often come into contact with wheat, rye, or barley, leading to cross-contamination,” said Dubesky. She remains hopeful that as demand grows, prices will eventually drop, easing the burden on those requiring a gluten-free diet for their health.
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