Milford’s Gluten Never Ever Expo Serves Up a Feast of Safe, Delicious Options for Celiac and Gluten‑Sensitive Diners

On a bright September Sunday, the Hampshire Dome in Milford buzzed with the smell of fresh‑baked bread, sizzling pans and the low hum of conversation. The Gluten Never Ever expo had finally arrived, turning the modest convention center into a lively marketplace for anyone who has ever had to say “no” to gluten.

For those who don’t know, celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that attacks the small intestine whenever gluten sneaks in. The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates roughly one in every hundred people worldwide lives with it – yet only about 30 % receive a proper diagnosis. That means many are still navigating menus, cross‑contamination fears and the endless search for truly safe meals.

“New Hampshire has needed something like this for a while,” said Jody Donohue, the event’s organizer, as she guided visitors from one booth to the next. “We have fantastic bakeries, restaurants and little mom‑and‑pop shops across New England, but they’re scattered. This expo lets us bring them all together under one roof, so folks can actually taste what’s out there without the guesswork.”

The expo ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., drawing families, college students, retirees and curious foodies alike. Vendors displayed everything from airy gluten‑free bagels and decadent cupcakes to hearty soups and artisanal pizzas. Live cooking demos gave attendees a peek behind the curtain, showing how simple swaps can keep dishes both safe and satisfying.

Beyond the plates, the day turned into a community‑building exercise. Health professionals offered quick screenings, a local celiac support group set up a cozy lounge for chats, and a “gluten‑free myth‑busting” corner kept the conversation light yet informative. By the time the doors closed, the dome felt a little less like a building and more like a gathering spot where shared challenges turned into shared celebration.