Evaluation of Gluten Contamination in Gluten-Free Products in the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition, triggered by gluten ingestion, which affects the small intestine, destroying the villi. It is considered that in recent years CD has undergone a real “metamorphosis” due to the constant increase in diagnosed cases. The only treatment available for BC is to stick to a gluten-free diet throughout your life. Adherence to a GFD requires strict elimination of gluten-containing products, as patients with CD are very sensitive to the toxic effect of gluten. The purpose of the research is to evaluate whether the products marketed on the territory of the Republic of Moldova, labeled as gluten-free products, are safe for people with celiac disease, from the perspective of their gluten content. The identification of gluten in GF products sold in supermarkets in the capital was done using the GlutenToxPro gluten detection kit for food, beverages, and work surfaces (AOAC-RI). Research has shown that both gluten-free products imported with the Crossed Grain logo and those just labeled gluten-free (both imported and local), pose no risk to people with gluten-related disorders: the gluten content of all samples was up to 20 ppm. Local, non-packaged GF products (developed and made available to consumers by the supermarkets concerned) pose an increased risk of contamination.

Celiac Disease: Risks of Cross-Contamination and Strategies for Gluten Removal in Food Environments

“…A study carried out by Siminiuc and Ţurcanu [28] aimed to evaluate the safety of products labeled as gluten-free in the Republic of Moldova for individuals with celiac disease by evaluating their gluten content. The study used the GlutenToxPro gluten detection kit to analyze gluten levels in GF products sold in the state capital's supermarkets.…”

Software for Nutritional Assessment of People With Gluten-Related Disorders

“…The limited participation of nutritionists in the development of balanced menus or their total lack in public catering units, the low diversity of gluten-free products and the high cost, compared to their gluten counterparts, the risk of cross-contamination of food, the developing offer of social assistance services and nutritional care etc. -all this reflects only part of the challenges faced by people with GRDs in the Republic of Moldova [8][9][10].…”