FOG Food – Serving Up Gluten-Free Goodness from Selwyn

When Selwyn local Emma Prestage found herself covered in hives during her third pregnancy, she had no idea it was the beginning of a life-changing health journey. In 2016, Emma was diagnosed with coeliac disease, a condition that affects around 1 in 80 New Zealanders and requires a lifelong gluten-free diet.

Emma and family showcasing FOG Food

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, causing damage to the small intestine and a range of symptoms. The only treatment is to completely eliminate gluten from the diet, which can be challenging given how many foods naturally contain or have gluten added to them.

Living with coeliac disease brought daily challenges, especially when it came to finding safe and satisfying food on the go. One particularly frustrating moment came in 2017, while Emma was at a rugby match with her family and realised there was nothing safe for her or her children to eat, everything either contained gluten or it was unclear if it did. Hungry and a little grumpy, Emma was muttering her frustrations when her husband turned to her and said, “Why don’t you do something about it?” And that was the spark that lit the fire for FOG (Free of Gluten) Food – a proudly Selwyn-based business now loved by gluten-free foodies around Aotearoa.

Divine Gluten Free Chocolate Brownie

Starting with handmade crackers and biscuits, Emma’s kitchen soon became a hub of gluten-free creativity. FOG Food now offers dry mixes, frozen dumplings, waffles (a crowd favourite!), and even gluten-free catering for events. But for Emma, it’s about more than just food, it’s about connection, care and community.

As Coeliac Canterbury’s coordinator, Emma is a passionate advocate for education and support. With all three of her boys also diagnosed with coeliac disease, she knows firsthand how important it is to feel safe and included. Whether it’s sharing advice with local schools, cafés, or scout groups, or having a good yarn with someone who pops by, Emma leads with knowledge and understanding.

Gluten Free Muffins

After travelling to the North Island festivals for the past 2 years as a vendor and seeing the joy on people faces who live with coeliac disease or gluten intolerances knowing they could safely eat anything, Emma was determined to bring that magic home.  This year, thanks to Emma’s persistence, The Gluten Free Food Festival is finally coming to the South Island, and it’s happening right here in Selwyn!

Every vendor has been carefully vetted to ensure the event is 100% gluten-free, right down to the coffee vendors soy milk! With a mix of South Island artisans and big-name brands like Venerdi and Griffins, and of course FOG Food, it’s a dream come true for gluten-free food lovers and an exciting day out for everyone.

Gluten Free Ginger Peeps

Whether you’re coeliac, gluten-sensitive, or just love great food, this festival is all about flavour, inclusivity, and fun.

Lincoln Event Centre
Friday 9 May 2025, 5–8pm
Saturday 10 May 2025, 9am–4pm

Tickets available at: The Gluten Free Food Festival