More halal eateries in Singapore are offering alternative and inclusive food items so everyone can enjoy them.
This includes East Manhattan, a bakery located in Katong V. The bakery serves all sorts of baked goods, most of which are gluten-free.
The gluten-free diet is one that has been gaining traction and popularity in recent years. But what is gluten, and is it bad for health?
What is gluten?
Gluten is a family of proteins found in grains, including wheat, rye, spelt, and barley. Most people can tolerate gluten with no adverse effects.
However, it can cause problems for people with certain health conditions. This includes celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy, and some other diseases.
Amongst these health conditions, celiac disease is the most severe form of gluten intolerance and affects about 1% of the population.
Essentially, it is an autoimmune disorder in which the body treats gluten as a foreign invader. The immune system attacks the gluten, as well as the lining of the gut causing inflammation and damage in intestinal tracts.
Despite the small percentage of people who are gluten intolerant, the gluten-free diet is popular and has been adopted by many because of its supposed health benefits. This includes boosting energy levels, improving immunity and aiding weight loss.
Gluten-free and sourdough breads in a bakery shop
Gluten-free foods are still quite uncommon in Singapore, and even more so in halal establishments.
Those that do offer gluten-free items would often require customised pre-orders.
Yet, there is at least one bakery that sells gluten-free baked goods which are readily available on the shelves.
And that bakery is East Manhattan, a Muslim-owned establishment in Katong.
The bakery offers a wide variety of gluten-free options which include breads, muffins and cakes.
For sourdough fans, a nice selection of sourdough goodies is also available. If you have jumped on the sourdough train recently, these would go perfectly with avocado, jam, and maybe even flavoured butter.
If you have a sweet tooth, East Manhattan’s selection of cakes will be very tempting. We spotted ondeh-ondeh cake, and a variety of mousse cakes and cheesecakes.
Where to go: 30 East Coast Road #01-04 Katong V Singapore 428751
When to go: 8am to 9pm, daily
Top image from East Manhattan’s Facebook page.
