SPAIN – Dr. Schär, an Italy-based gluten-free group, has invested EUR6.8m (US$7.2m) to add a new production line at its facility in Alagón, Spain, Just Foods has reported.

The Company provides gluten-free breads, flour, snacks, cereals, pasta, biscuits, desserts, frozen convenience foods, and other dietary, as well as nutritional products

The expansion, therefore, is intended to increase the capacity to provide food for people suffering from celiac disease and those with other gluten sensitivities.

In addition, the project is will create employment for 22 people in its facility in Alagón, Zaragoza which currently employs 130 people.

Speaking to Just Food, CEO Hannes Berger said Dr. Schär seeks to serve consumers suffering from gluten intolerances, coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, and also to expand in the area of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

He further revealed that the company uses ingredients such as gluten-free rice, millet, and buckwheat flour for its products.

The family-owned Dr. Schär bought the Alagón site in 2011.  Later in 2016, it invested EUR11.5m in the facility to expand its portfolio of gluten-free bread and rolls.

Cereal disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye

The investment comes at a time when health-conscious consumers are showing an increased interest in gluten-free products as a part of a broader healthy eating regime.

With the rise in demand for gluten-free food and drinks, manufacturers are exploring various gluten alternatives, including flour derived from nuts, seeds, beans, fruits, and vegetables

Fortune Business Insight reports that the global gluten-free food market is projected to grow from $5.72 billion in 2021 to $9.99 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 8.29% in the forecast period, 2021-2028

The expansion activities at the Spanish facility will position Dr. Schär to better take advantage of opportunities arising from an expanded market.

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