Belconnen recently welcomed a game-changer for the local coeliac community, with the opening of January Health Foods, Canberra’s first gluten-free specialty store.

Next to Priceline and near the North Canberra Family Practice on Chandler Street, this one-stop shop is the brainchild of owner Kelly Moss.

More than just a health food boutique, January Health Foods embodies a mission to provide a safe space for individuals with coeliac disease, or who are otherwise gluten-free.

As Kelly shares, “We’re also incorporating dairy-free and vegan, because a lot of gluten-free foods that we have in store target those lifestyles as well. Gluten-free can also be a lifestyle choice, but if you have coeliac disease, it’s a necessity.”

Kelly has navigated coeliac disease for the past 14 years, after being diagnosed as an adult and quickly learning of the struggle to find all her gluten-free ingredients in one location.

She opened January Health Foods in August this year. When customers walk in, they are greeted by more than a store – it’s a partner in their dietary journey.

“We read the labels for you,” Kelly explains. “When you are shopping for an allergy, you tend to spend more time reading the labels of things you want to buy, than actually looking for the things you need.

“We do all that for you. We make sure everything in store is safe so you can just come in and shop around for the things you normally can’t get in other stores, all in one place.”

From condiments to baking mixes to cookbooks, Kelly encourages Canberrans to explore January Health Foods’ extensive offering.

The store also includes gluten-free products making their Canberra debut, such as Ardor Food Co.’s gluten-free flours and ready-made meals, and Grön Haus’ delectable frittatas and pies.

“We are new and we’re looking to expand our range, so if there is anything that you haven’t been able to find or are looking for, let us know!”

Explore the range at January Health Foods, Shop 2a/1 Chandler Street, Belconnen. Open Monday to Friday 9.30am-5.30pm, and Saturday 9am-2pm. To find out more, visit januaryhealthfoods.com.au, email [email protected] or call 0433 834 427.