Golden Harvest has invested a total of €350,000 to build dedicated facilities to produce freshly made gluten free products at its bakery in San Gwann. This is the first time that a local company will be producing freshly baked gluten free products in Malta.
Mark Aquilina, Chief Executive of Golden Harvest Bakery made the announcement this week during a site visit by Chris Fearne, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, and the launch of the first range of products consisting of bread rolls, bread buns, and vanilla and chocolate muffins.
Mark Aquilina (left) with Chris Fearne
Addressing the guests Mr Aquilina observed, “The production of these products is in line with our commitment to continuously supply bread and other bakery products which addresses different dietary requirements. To produce gluten free products we have conducted various studies and also consulted local health authorities and associations. Furthermore we have invested heavily to ensure we have the proper facilities including a hermetically sealed gluten free area and also be in a position to source the best raw materials and packaging from Gluten Free approved suppliers. All the raw materials we use are tested to be gluten free before dispatched and a certificate of analysis is supplied.”
Mr Aquilina added that, “Contamination free transportation of raw materials is a crucial part of the whole process. In fact all materials are transported in secluded compartments to ensure that there is no cross contamination with other flour products. Once delivered to the Gluten Free bakery the raw materials are checked to see that all packs are sealed properly, wiped and placed in the Gluten free bakery. This area is a Class 100 Clean Room, which ensures that no foul air can enter. Personnel entering the gluten free area will also have to wear special overalls, special shoes and hair net to ensure absolute cleanliness and no contamination.”
Golden Harvest’s range of gluten free products will be available in all stores and supermarkets on 1st October 2014.