The number of Australians living a gluten-free lifestyle is on the rise, with 11% of adults now following the diet. Yet, despite its growing popularity, there are still a number of misconceptions about gluten-free snacks and diet, with the predominant one being that individuals need to compromise on taste, quality and variety.
However, that is simply not the case – there is a huge array of delicious gluten-free snacks in Australia! At Cheesebuddy, we’re committed to helping customers unlock the healthy and satisfying flavours of gluten-free Pão de Queijo, or “cheese bread,” to give it its literal translation from Brazilian.
We don’t believe being gluten-free means you have to enjoy a sub-par snacking experience. That’s why in this blog, we thought we would take a closer look at our unique snacks.
The Rise of Gluten-Free Snacks in Australia
Before we explore our mouthwatering range of gluten-free snacks, we thought it was important to take a quick look at the burgeoning world of gluten-free diets.
While some 2.8 million Australians might be following the diet, only 0.5% are doing so because they have been diagnosed with coeliac disease. That means the vast majority of individuals are adapting their eating habits as they look to embrace a healthier diet.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye and can cause an adverse reaction in individuals with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, even for individuals without either condition, ingesting gluten can lead to a range of symptoms, including bloating, weight gain, fatigue and joint pain.
It is also now thought that gluten should be excluded from the diets of those suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s.
This growing shift in wanting to reduce gluten intake, has been accelerated by the growing assortment of tasty gluten-free snacks, making it easier to embrace different snacks and dietary needs. We are committed to this here at Cheesebuddy and that’s why we launched our flavourful range of gluten-free snacks across Australia.
Introducing Cheesebuddy: A Game Changer in the Snack Industry
Our journey began some 400 years ago in Brazil, the home of Pão de Queijo. The recipe for this irresistible ‘bread’ quickly spread. It became a staple snack for any occasion, but especially for special events and family gatherings. Fast forward to today, and our team is passionate about bringing those authentic Brazilian flavours to customers across Australia.
Our mission is to ensure it has never been easier to enjoy tasty gluten-free snacks, with quality and flavour paramount in everything we create. We only use the finest ingredients when making our snacks and we ensure that every cheese bread is fluffy, flavourful and features a satisfying cheesy crunch!
By sticking to traditional recipes and avoiding artificial additives, we’ve created a product that stands out from not only those in the gluten-free market, but from every item in the snack aisle.
What is Pão de Queijo? Discovering Brazil’s Beloved Snack
Pão de Queijo translates to ‘cheese bread’ and is a traditional Brazilian snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, to the landlocked state of Minas Gerais in the southeast of the country. Since then, though, the snack has become a beloved staple for gatherings across Brazil and has developed a rich history and cultural significance as a cherished treat.
The snack is very easy to make using traditional ingredients including cassava or tapioca flour, cheese, eggs, milk and oil. Cassava flour, and its derivative, tapioca flour, is a naturally gluten-free ingredient, making it ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or those simply looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The cheese provides a rich, savoury flavour, while the eggs and milk ensure a fluffy and chewy texture.
Why Choose Gluten-Free? Health Benefits and More
There was once a time when gluten-free snacks were the reserve of those with gluten sensitivity or coeliac disease. However, studies have shown that eliminating gluten from your diet can provide a variety of health benefits for everyone, including:
- Increased Energy
Many individuals have noticed that they have increased energy levels after eliminating gluten from their diet. This is due to reduced inflammation throughout the body and a better ability to absorb nutrients, ensuring greater vitality throughout the day.
- Improved Gut Health
Following a gluten-free diet can also help to improve digestive health, reducing the symptoms of bloating, gas and irregular bowel movements.
- Improved Weight Management
Following a gluten-free diet encourages healthier eating habits, which can support individuals with their weight management. Many gluten-containing foods are processed and high in calories, so cutting these out can help weight loss.
- Better Mental Clarity
Some people have reported improved mental clarity and concentration when following a gluten-free diet.
- Reduced Joint Pain
Finally, reducing gluten can also lead to less joint pain and stiffness thanks to lower levels of inflammation, helping to make daily activities more comfortable.
As these benefits show, it’s not just those with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance who can benefit from following a gluten-free diet. Incorporating the right foods and snacks can help you notice a wide range of benefits.
The Perfect Snack for Every Occasion
So now that you know the many benefits of gluten-free snacks, why is Cheesebuddy the perfect partner for any occasion? Well, the cheesy, savoury flavour and satisfying texture make it a genuine crowd-pleaser that everyone, no matter their dietary restrictions, can enjoy. Whether serving our cheese breads as an appetiser, party snack or side dish, you will impress your guests with a unique and tasty treat.
Not only are our Pão de Queijo delicious, but they are also very convenient. Our snacks are stored in the freezer and can be ready in minutes – perfect for when unexpected visitors drop by.
The Taste Test: Why Cheesebuddy’s Pão de Queijo Stands Out
For us, gluten-free snacks don’t mean boring! Whether you choose our delicious Parmesan & Cheddar option, Cheese & Garlic or Chilli flavours you can be assured of a mouthwatering experience with every bite! We use high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create a chewy, fluffy interior with a perfectly crisp exterior.
Made With Love: The Ingredients That Make a Difference
Cheesebuddy is committed to using natural and proven ingredients that follow the traditional Pão de Queijo methods. When you choose our range, there are no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, just wholesome ingredients that you can trust. And no gluten!
We adhere to the traditional recipe and methods, using time-tested techniques to ensure that each item is delicious and true to its Brazilian origins. All of our products are made with pride in Western Australia in our state-of-the-art, HACCP-certified facility, so you can have complete peace of mind that our range meets the highest Australian food safety standards.
Versatility In Snacking: How to Enjoy Cheesebuddy’s Pão de Queijo
Pão de Queijo is an incredibly versatile snack that can be enjoyed however you like. Try pairing it with your favourite dips, spreads or toppings to enhance its flavour even further. Experiment with fillings – slice them open and fill with ham and cheese, thin slices of meat or even a sweet fruit jam for a truly unique and delicious salty-sweet combination.
There are countless creative ways for you to enjoy our Cheesebuddy Pão de Queijo. Dip them, fill them or simply eat them as they are as an on-the-go snack – the choice is yours!
Where To Buy Cheesebuddy’s Pão de Queijo in Australia
Ready to try our delicious Pão de Queijo for yourself? If you are keen to get your hands on our tasty Cheesebuddy Brazilian cheese breads, then you can find them in hundreds of grocery stores across Australia, including in Coles, Costco, IGA and Woolworths! Simply look for our eye-catching packaging in the freezer section and you will be able to enjoy our quality breads in no time.
We’re also currently working on opening an online store, so make sure that you stay tuned to our social media channels, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, to be the first to know when you can get it delivered directly to your door.