Prices of Gluten-Free Goods

Understanding the Price of Gluten-Free Baking

The cost of gluten-free products has been a topic of discussion for many years. As demand continues to grow, many mass-produced options have entered the market—but unfortunately, these often come at the expense of flavour, texture, and most importantly, safety. Cross-contamination remains a significant concern for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

At Wheat City Wheatless Goods, we are committed to offering gluten-free products that are rich in flavour, completely free from cross-contamination, and as accessible as possible. Our goal is to serve a community that is often overlooked and to do so without compromising on quality.

When individuals who do not require a gluten-free diet stop by our market table, we often hear reactions like:

1. "$15.00 for a dozen cookies?!?!" (Usually followed by picking up the product and placing it back down abruptly.)

2. “Isn’t that a bit high?”

3. "I could make these at home."

By contrast, when someone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity visits, the tone changes entirely:

1. “I’ve never heard of you!” (Often said while carefully reviewing the menu and ingredients.)

2. “Wait, all of this is gluten-free?”

3. Followed by expressions of excitement—sometimes even happy dances and squeals of joy.

   
   

   Why the stark difference in reaction? It comes down to understanding what goes into safe, gluten-free baking.

   
   

   The Price of Flour:

Bakers who use conventional wheat-based flours have access to affordable options. For example, a 10kg bag of all-purpose flour from a major brand like Robin Hood typically costs around $19.

For gluten-free baking, however, things are far more complex. Most gluten-free bakers must create their own flour blends from ingredients like sorghum, brown rice, white rice, tapioca starch, and potato starch. These ingredients are not only more expensive individually, but they must also be carefully sourced to ensure they are certified gluten-free. The custom 1:1 blend I use costs approximately $122 for 10kg.

And that’s just one ingredient.

When pricing our baked goods, we must consider:

• The cost of ingredients (which are significantly higher in the gluten-free world)

• Packaging and presentation

• Fair wages for skilled labour

• Overhead expenses such as electricity, water, and kitchen equipment

  
  

So why $15 a Dozen?

Yes, a dozen cookies may be priced at $15—but that cost reflects far more than just ingredients. It represents the use of high-quality, certified gluten-free flours, the rigorous steps we take to prevent cross-contamination, and the skill and care involved in creating safe, delicious products for people who often struggle to find trustworthy options.

At Wheat City Wheatless Goods, our mission is to provide gluten-free baking that is accessible, flavourful, and dependable. We believe that no one should have to choose between safety and enjoyment when it comes to food.

Thank you for supporting small businesses that prioritize quality, transparency, and community. Your support allows us to continue doing what we love: baking better—for everyone.

Much love,

Brooke <3