WICHITA, Kan. (AP) - New research funded by farmers aims to breed wheat for people who can't eat wheat and other grains, and comes amid booming consumer interest in gluten-free foods.
The Kansas Wheat Commission provided $200,000 for the first two years of a project to identify the wheat DNA that causes a reaction in people with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder in which eating any gluten can damage the small intestine. That would theoretically let researchers breed celiac-safe wheat.
U.S. consumers spent $973 million on products marketed as gluten-free in 2014 - driven in part by non-celiac sufferers intolerant to gluten or following fad diets.
Research supporters say it isn't an effort to regain market share. Some skeptical celiac experts say the research may, at best, lead to a less toxic wheat variety.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Atchison Walmart robbery sparks suspect search
Accused Atchison Walmart robber arrested Wed
Brown Co man involved in fatal central KS crash
Wrecked motorcyclist escapes serious injuries
Decision made on future of Atchison Co Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Atchison's black business past set for renewal
Two arrested after Jackson Co traffic stop
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered
Nemaha Co Attorney discusses retirement plans with commission
Jackson Co voters to face special question in November
Flags to fly in honor of fallen KS paramedic
HCC successfully concludes DOJ settlement agreement
Falls City Council moves forward with bonding for future electrical needs
Lancaster Fire gains firetruck
New 3-county extension district formation explored
LATEST STORIES
Presidential Disaster Declaration approved
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Public health advisory issued for Pony Creek Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Memorial Day honors planned for Atchison Co vets
Local tribes awarded housing grants
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered