Every week, those of us in the UK who live with Coeliac Disease face an uphill battle when it comes to the food shop. We're not talking about finding the right products on the shelves, but about the financial burden that comes with simply feeding ourselves gluten-free food. Despite being a necessary diet for those diagnosed with Coeliac Disease, gluten-free food items are priced roughly 35% higher when compared to their regular counterparts. This kind of price discrepancy is not just unjust, it's detrimental. 

As the cost of living continues to rise, this disparity in pricing for essential gluten free products makes  the financial strain even more unbearable for individuals and families who have no alternative but to choose gluten free options. The gluten free diet is not a fad or a luxury; it's a medical requirement which seriously endangers people in the long run if they are not able to follow as exposure to gluten causes malabsorption, malnutrition, abdominal pains and puts us at a higher risk of developing certain types of caner such as small bowel lymphoma. And yet we're made to  feel the financial pinch even deeper than those without dietary restrictions. 

The reality is stark: while the average UK household is already tightening its belt due to economic pressures, those needing gluten-free products find their shopping bills  spiralling, potentially forcing some to choose between their health needs and other essential expenses. This is fundamentally unfair. 

We're calling on retailers and manufacturers to reconsider their pricing strategies for gluten-free products. By aligning the prices of these necessary items with that of regular food product, they could significantly alleviate the financial pressure on millions of Coeliacs and others who depend on gluten-free diets across the UK. This adjustment doesn't only make moral and ethical sense, but it could also result in increased customer loyalty and satisfaction. 

We urge stakeholders in the food industry to invest in research and development to more cost effectively produce gluten free products without compromising on safety, taste, or nutritional value. By making these efforts, they have the power to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who rely on these products for health reasons. 

We invite concerned citizens, families affected by Coeliac Disease, and those who believe in fair pricing to support this cause. Let's push for a more inclusive and equitable pricing system that acknowledges the needs of everyone. Sign this petition to help us make a change for the better and support  Coelics across the UK