Bakery Accused of Selling Dunkin' Donuts as Homemade Vegan, Gluten-Free Treats

Celiac.com 03/27/2024 - For people living with celiac disease, finding safe and delicious gluten-free treats can be a challenging task. However, recent allegations against a bakery in Long Island, New York, have raised serious concerns about the authenticity and safety of gluten-free products.

Cindysnacks, a vegan market in Huntington, Long Island, took to Instagram to accuse The Savory Fig, a Patchogue-based bakery, of attempting to pass off Dunkin' Donuts products as homemade vegan and gluten-free doughnuts. According to reports, the Division of Food Safety and Inspection department of New York and Suffolk County Department of Health are investigating the accusations.

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The controversy arose when John Stengel, co-owner of Cindysnacks, discovered that doughnuts delivered by The Savory Fig bore an uncanny resemblance to Dunkin' Donuts products. The doughnuts were garnished with sprinkles that resembled the iconic "D" shaped sprinkles found on Dunkin' Donuts treats. Concerned about the authenticity and safety of the doughnuts, Stengel ordered an at-home gluten test, which returned a "high positive" result for gluten.

Stengel's allegations have sparked outrage among individuals with celiac disease and food allergies, who rely on gluten-free products for their health and well-being. Many have shared their experiences living with celiac disease and expressed their concerns about the potential risks associated with consuming mislabeled products.

In response to the allegations, The Savory Fig has shut down its Instagram page, and its Facebook page has been inundated with negative comments and ratings. 

Cindysnacks has Contacted the Authorities to Ensure the Safety and Proper Labeling of Food Products.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and integrity in the food industry, especially when it comes to catering to individuals with dietary restrictions. For those with celiac disease, it highlights the need for vigilance when purchasing gluten-free products and the importance of verifying the authenticity of food items. In a similar past case, Paul Selig was sentenced to 11 years in prison after pulling a similar stunt.

As investigations into the matter continue, individuals with celiac disease are urged to exercise caution and seek out reputable sources for gluten-free products. By staying informed and advocating for their dietary needs, individuals with celiac disease can protect their health and well-being in an increasingly complex food landscape.

Stay tuned for more on this and related stories.

Read more at nyeater.com and Today.com