For the estimated three million Americans affected with celiac disease1, grabbing a quick prepared snack when they're on-the-go is never simple, as hidden sources of gluten in product ingredients is always top-of-mind. To help make the choice easier, Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop will be offering a new Gluten-Free Coconut Macaroon that is certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization starting on July 15.

"At Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop we are committed to offering innovative menu items that give all our guests more choice, and our new Gluten-Free Coconut Macaroon is a great example of that," says Mike Meilleur, executive vice president, Tim Hortons US "With the growing number of consumers with celiac disease and gluten intolerance, we're making it a little easier for friends and families to enjoy eating together. And the new macaroon tastes fantastic, which makes it a great snacking option for everyone, not just those with gluten intolerance."

The Tim Hortons Gluten-Free Coconut Macaroon is certified through the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), a subsidiary of the Gluten Intolerance Group, whose mission is to provide consumers assurance of the safety of gluten-free products. This is done through quality assessment and control measures of production facilities.

"GFCO is committed to providing consumers with products they can easily identify as gluten-free and ensures the continuous monitoring of brands that choose to adhere to the strict standards of the certification program," says Channon Quinn, director of industry programs, Gluten Intolerance Group. "With the launch of the new Gluten-Free Coconut Macaroon, Tim Hortons has shown its leadership in the industry by offering a high quality, innovative menu item to a growing segment of the population."

The new Gluten-Free Coconut Macaroon is a meringue-style cookie made with real coconut and drizzled in milk chocolate, and is sold in a pre-wrapped two-piece package to avoid cross contamination. It will be available at Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop restaurants across the US beginning July 15 for $1.29.