Garlic Jim's Gourmet Pizza: the First Pizza Restaurant Accredited by Gluten Free Food Service

(PRWEB) June 11, 2009 -- Gluten Free Food Service Accreditation (GFFS) sets the standard for Best Practices in gluten-free food production for all types of food service operations. The process requires a business to meet six best practices that include the review of all ingredients, recipes, preparation, storage, service, training, and quality control policies and practices. Each location then goes through detailed on-site inspections. Garlic Jim's Gourmet Pizza has put into place these standards and practices. Before a location can serve gluten-free pizzas, they must meet these standards. GFFS sets strict guidelines for all aspects of food service that could impact safe gluten-free food production. Critical to the program is quality control through internal and external audits.

Garlic Jim's CEO, Dwayne Northrop states "I'm very excited that Garlic Jim's Famous Gourmet Pizza is one of the first companies to be accredited by GIG's Gluten Free Food Service Accreditation program. Their accreditation validates our commitment to the highest level of food safety for our non-gluten customers. I'm also pleased with the strength of our on-going relationship with GIG and appreciate their effective advice and support." Over 60% of persons with celiac disease find dining out frightening and want assurance their food is being prepared in ways that will not make them sick. Nearly 25 million people in the US follow a gluten-free diet, for at least 3 million people it is their 'medicine' for good health.

"Gluten Free Food Service Accreditation sets the industry standard for safe gluten free food production in any type of food service. Garlic Jim's has a strong commitment to doing gluten-free pizza right - with excellence and quality" says Channon Quinn, Director of Industry Programs for the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America.

A program of the Gluten Intolerance Group, GFFS provides an independent service to oversee gluten-free food service according to a consistent, defined and science-based standard that is confirmed by field inspections, in order to achieve heightened consumer confidence and safety when dining away from home. GFFS provides accreditation documentation for each accredited location to proudly display as well as a manual of procedures and protocol for staff to refer to in the case of any questions. GFFS also provides training modules for the corporate training team to use in the education of new employees.

For more information about the Gluten Free Food Service Accreditation Program, please visit www.gffoodservice.org.

Gourmet pizza that is fast and easy and GLUTEN FREE is available at a Garlic Jim's Gourmet Pizza location near you. Please visit www.garlicjims.com for more information and locations in your area.

More information about celiac disease and gluten intolerance can be found at www.gluten.net.

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