MINNEAPOLIS - To help the many Americans who follow a gluten-free diet, General Mills is offering Chex cereal in five gluten-free varieties: Honey Nut, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Rice and Corn Chex.

"Families are looking for wholesome, nutritious solutions that are gluten free and convenient but still taste great," said Keri Glassman, registered dietitian and author. "Gluten free foods can fit into a busy lifestyle, without making mealtime sacrifices."

According to a May 2010 NPD Group dietary report, 25 percent of consumers expressed interest in gluten free foods ?" and that number continues to grow. Retail sales for gluten free products nearly tripled from 2004 to 2009 reaching almost $1.7 billion. Further, that number is estimated to top $2.6 billion in sales by the year 2012, according to Packaged Facts.

"We are thrilled to offer a wide variety of gluten free family-favorite cereals," said Liz Mascolo, marketing manager for Chex cereals. "For more than 50 years, Chex has been known and trusted for its great taste and wholesome crunch ?" and now, we??re also a familiar gluten free choice."

The five gluten-free Chex cereals are available for an approximate retail price of $2.99 to $3.29. To verify that the cereal is gluten free, consumers are strongly encouraged to look for "Gluten Free" on Chex cereal packaging. The words "Gluten Free" will appear near the ingredient declaration on the package side panel and on the front panel. It??s also important to note that Wheat Chex and Multi-Bran Chex are not gluten-free cereals.

For more on gluten-free products be on the lookout for an upcoming feature in NACS Magazine.