“The launch of our first facility in the United States is an exciting milestone for the Schar brand,” said Donna L. George, president and chief operating officer of Dr. Schar USA, Inc. “The facility will help accelerate the growth and availability of innovative gluten-free foods in grocery, natural, and specialty stores as well as restaurants and other food outlets across the country. Dr. Schar is committed to raising awareness and improving the quality of life of those in the U.S. who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Our vision is for the Schar brand to be the U.S. market leader in gluten-free foods and innovation and New Jersey is a perfect location to support our national distribution and growth.”
Dr. Schar said the facility will comply with the 20 p.p.m. or less maximum gluten content standard established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission — a joint program of the World Health Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization. The new site is expected to create more than 50 new jobs and help fuel the state’s local economy in addition to supplying the demands of the growing gluten-free marketplace. Packaged Facts estimated the U.S. market for gluten-free foods and beverages at $2.6 billion in 2010.
Dr. Schar AG/SPA has been developing and producing gluten-free products for more than 30 years and is a leading gluten-free manufacturer in Europe. The company’s portfolio offers a range of products, including bread, rolls, pasta, cookies, crackers and frozen meals. Schar USA was incorporated in 2007 and has introduced more than 33 products to the U.S. market.
