Gluten-free shop opens in Lemont

LEMONT – Chiropractors Ed Beyer and Jeff Forzley realized at a recent conference that they were interested in opening gluten-free businesses.

The two medical professionals decided to join forces to pursue their mission of bringing gluten-free food to the southwest suburbs.

The fruit of their labor is Lemont’s newest business, Gusteau’s Gluten Free Shoppe, which opened Saturday at 1246 State St.

“I felt there was a big need for it,” said Forzley, who practices chiropractics and holistic medicine at Lemont Natural Healthcare.

Gusteau’s includes a retail section with grocery products, a full carryout menu featuring items prepared in a gluten-free kitchen, catering services and baked goods.

Forzley and Beyer treat patients who are on gluten-free diets. They also emphasize the significance of food sensitivity in their medicinal work.

During the past 15 years, gluten sensitivity almost has quadrupled, Forzley said.

Co-owner Patricia Paloumpis, who is married to Beyer, says that people who have trouble consuming gluten often encounter challenges finding food options that aren’t cross-contaminated.

The carryout kitchen plays an important role at Gusteau’s by providing fresh entrées that are safe for consumption, she said.

The staff at Gusteau’s is on a gluten-free diet, as well.

Paloumpis said gluten-free habits can reduce headaches and digestive problems, while contributing to an overall sense of wellness. Gluten-free products also provide an alternative for customers interested in avoiding genetically modified foods, Paloumpis said.

For information, call Gusteau’s at 630-243-7600.