Ep 146 November 2020 Roundup – A Conversation with Ellen Bayens

Let’s start the blog with the show notes for this Episode –

It’s the beginning of November and that means I can take time to catch up with Ellen Bayens of theceliacscene.com.  Ellen and I discuss a couple of recent scientific studies, one to do with the gut microbiome of celiac patients and another about the early introduction of gluten to infants.  Ellen tells us about a new e-book from Teresa of Gluten Free KOB.

We continue talking about gluten free food as Ellen highlights the three-tier Gluten Free approach that M&M Foodmarket is taking to identify their gluten free offerings which include burgers, breaded foods and an extensive list of desserts.

More good news with gluten free comes from Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream as they announce 11 flavours of their ice creams are gluten free, as they continue to add the certification symbol to more and more flavours.

I also mentioned that there appears to be a lack of both white and brown rice flours available on the consumer market at this time.  I understand covid disruptions are to blame and over time the supply chain will catch up with our needs.

Here’s a list of links to from Ellen.

Celiac Microbiome Could be Rectified with Tryptophan & Probiotics

Introducing Wheat Early May Prevent Celiac Disease

KOB Gluten-Free Bakery e-Book – Extraordinary Muffins!

Understanding M&M’s 3-Tier Gluten-Free Policy

11 Flavours of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Certified Gluten Free

Sue’s Websites and Social Media –

Podcast https://acanadianceliacpodcast.libsyn.com

Podcast Blog – https://www.acanadianceliacblog.com

Facebook – @acanadianceliacpodcast

Twitter – CeliacPodcastCA

Email – acdnceliacpodcast@gmail.com

Baking Website – https://www.suesglutenfreebaking.com

Instagram – @suesgfbaking

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUVGfpD4eJwwSc_YjkGagza06yYe3ApzL

Email – sue@suesglutenfreebaking.com

Other Podcast – Gluten Free Weigh In – https://glutenfreeweighin.libsyn.com

My Thoughts –

When I first saw Ellen’s Instagram post about Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, I immediately smiled.  We all have certain foods, or maybe even tastes that invoke special, personal memories.

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of driving my elderly parents on their last road trip vacation to the east coast of the northern United States.  From Kingston, that meant we travelled through New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and southern Maine.  On the return trip, I set our schedule to arrive in Waterbury, Vermont in the mid-afternoon, just in time for an afternoon ice cream treat at the factory and home of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream.

Stopping for ice cream on a warm day has long been one of my family’s traditions.  After I waited in line to buy cones for my parents, they encouraged me to go back and get something for myself.  I was dreading arriving at the front of the line, because I’d have to ask so many questions, ask for a cup, not a cone, ask for a clean scoop, we all know the drill.  But it wasn’t like that.  It was amazing, almost magical.

When I asked about gluten free, the server behind the counter perked up and showed me an extensive list, from which to choose (step one, check).  Once I chose, she then changed her gloves and told me she’d have to go back into the freezer to get a fresh (new) container for me (step two, check).  She wasn’t distracted by anything, anyone, or any contamination along the way, and delivered my glistening bowl of ice cream with a gloved hand and a napkin (step three, check).  Needless to say, I was impressed.  When I went to pay for my treat, I asked about the gluten free protocol and was told they take food allergies and sensitivities very seriously and asked me if I had any further questions, which I did not, as their procedures were impeccable.

I strolled out of the ice cream shop with my prize in my hand and a smile on my face.  My parents, who were used to seeing my frustration after going for food were surprised at my enthusiasm for the process.  I’m not sure whether it was being able to enjoy the simple pleasure of an ice cream with my elderly parents on a bright summer day, or my satisfaction that all was well in my gluten free world, but the ice cream I enjoyed that afternoon was truly memorable.  Thanks Ben, and or Jerry!