Wednesday on Lubbock's First News, Robin Hawkins, director of health and wellness at United Supermarkets, spoke about celiac disease and their gluten-free tags.

Those with celiac disease experience damage to the small intestine when coming into contact with or ingesting foods containing wheat, barley, or rye are consumed. This means that grocery shopping or eating out becomes a more involved task. United Supermarkets gives a tag to gluten-free certified products and offers a list of foods that naturally lack gluten to make the process easier. There are many gluten-free alternatives to favorite food items; these are often made with different types of grains, such as rice flour or almond flour. Hawkins said, "The market has improved so much. Gluten-free is the fastest growing category in the supermarket industry." All United stores have a gluten-free section and offer tours of the store with a dietitian who can offer tips on how to shop for a gluten-free diet.

Listen to the full interview:

Or listen on your mobile device: KFYO LFN Robin Hawkins May 07 2014 //