Access to gluten-free foods for people with coeliac disease in New Zealand.

Abstract

Aim: A strict gluten-free (GF) diet is the current mainstay of treatment for coeliac disease (CD). A limited range of GF foods are available on prescription for those with CD. GF foods purchased in shops are typically more expensive than gluten-containing equivalents. This study sought to understand how New Zealanders with CD obtain GF products and the changes associated with this.

Method: Coeliac New Zealand members were asked to complete an anonymous electronic survey in June 2023.

Results: Although 24% of the 522 respondents had accessed GF foods on prescription in the past, only 2% currently used the service. One-third of the respondents were unaware of the service. Cost and limited product range were the key reasons for not accessing prescriptions. Most non-prescription GF foods were purchased from a supermarket, with 54% spending over $50 per week on GF foods. Most respondents (90%) would prefer a discount card to purchase GF products. Preferences regarding the prescription service would be to collect products from a local shop (84%) or a pharmacy (42%).

Conclusion: This study indicates a very low uptake of GF products on prescription, with awareness, cost, product range and convenience limiting use of the service. Most respondents would prefer financial support for discounted GF products.