The Gluten & Allergen Free Expo 2014 in NJ Recap

        The much awaited GFAF expo at the Meadowlands finally took place last weekend.  If you have been following me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, I'm pretty sure you have seen me sharing non stop the past few days.  Missed my posts? Don't worry, here are some of the highlights.
          

     With our friend from Down Under, Freedom Foods.  I was so fortunate to have met them the previous year and was able to stock up on their cereals before it became available in the stores here in NJ. My kids go through TropicO's, Maple Crunch and Cocoa Crunch cereals like crazy. 

       This year, they brought some new items like ProTeen Crunch Cereal, pancake mix and that jar I'm holding called Smudge. The later sounds quite weird but the taste is to die for! 

      The photo was taken early Saturday morning.  Since I normally do my shopping on the second day, I didn't buy any that time.  Guess what?  Their products sold out! Bummer! Now, I made a reminder for next year that says "Must Buy Freedom Foods products on Saturday at 9 am!" 

      One of the perks of the GFAFExpo is that attendees would be able to taste new or upcoming products.  A good example for this year is Dole's latest product line of ready to eat soups. Aside from being gluten free and top 8 allergy friendly, it's also Non GMO, no MSG and preservative.  Shhh, the Sweet Corn soup is really good.  

      Another company that I'm glad was present at the Expo is Explore Asian.  I've seen their Black Bean pasta at Costco for months but was hesitant to buy because it was only available in a big package.   After the taste test, I have to say, I'm now confident to get that big box during my next shopping trip. 

       Not only does it tastes good, the spaghetti holds its share really well.  Have you noticed that the samples are inside the slow cooker?  That tells a lot especially to us GF pasta eaters. 

  

           By now, I'm sure you already know that I am a big supporter of local businesses.  Here's my latest find - DF Mavens Ice Cream! Well, technically they are not from Jersey but hey Astoria, NY is not that far.  I can't wait to visit them soon.  After all, they made me feel good about having ice cream for breakfast!

           Here's a "selfie" with the gorgeous and super sweet friend from Ian's Natural Foods.  Did you know that they do have a GF Panko Bread Crumbs? I'll be bugging my local stores (as always) about it really soon.  

       Ola! Foods has been a big supporter of our blog since the start.  Here's a picture with the company's founder Dina.  Just in case you don't know, there's a giveaway currently running for a $45 Granola Gift pack here on the blog. Make sure to join.   

   

         It's always fun chatting with company reps. Check out that big pack of Way Better Snacks! Okay, the one she's holding is actually a pillow but hey I like it too. Funny how she's very generous with the samples yet totally watchful with that particular prop.  Many attendees including me are trying to snag it but with no success.  

         New this year are our friends from World Foods Sauces.  I have tried some of their products before and even made my Asian Style Ratatouille recipe using their Thai Coconut Galangal Sauce.  It is so surprising to learn that they have other gluten free and food allergy friendly.  I can't wait to share with you the contents of the gift bag I got from them.  

       Though food was my top priority for attending the event, I wouldn't miss the chance to personally say hi to Andrea and Jay of Red Apple Lipstick.  This awesome couple has been a big blessing to me. Because of them, I didn't have to sacrifice my love for lipsticks and beauty products.

     Can you imagine my predicament when I was told to remove all the things my children are allergic to from the house?  I totally understand the need to get rid of all the unsafe food.  What made me almost lost my sanity was finding out that there are food and other harmful ingredients on basic things like soaps, shampoo, cleaning products and even cosmetics.  

       Their products have allowed me to still enjoy my bright lipsticks and make up in general  without feeling guilty of being close to the kids.     

      

         That's me all smiles while juggling all the bags filled with samples and coupons from Day 1.  

       

      There are still so much to share about the GFAF Expo.  In fact, I can make a whole novel (maybe, if I just have the time) out of it.  As you can see, it is definitely worth it to attend a GFAF Expo.  

         

        So, will I see you there next year?

- Roz

Gluten and Allergen Free Expo 2014 in NJ Ticket Giveaway

    A few more days and it's September! You know what that means right? The Gluten and Allergen Free Expo is back in New Jersey. 

     For those who are not aware of this extraordinary affair, the GFAF Expo is the largest and fastest growing special diet consumer event in the US.  If you are in the Tri-State area, I suggest you block the dates Sept. 6 and 7, 2014 now and schedule to go to The Meadowlands in Secaucus, New Jersey. I promise you, it is worth every effort.  That's coming from someone who had attended both days of the expo.  

     So, what makes the GFAF Expo really special especially to us who are dealing with food allergies and gluten intolerance? Well, the $15 adult day pass ($3 for kids) will give you access to:

1. Over 150 vendor booth exhibitors.  Click for the full list.

      You'll be amazed how many companies are actually catering to our special needs.  From cereals, breads, snacks to make up, mobile apps and even beers, the whole day isn't enough to check all of them.  

2. Free Product Samples

         Have you ever seen a gluten free or food allergy product on the store shelves but is hesitant to buy because you're not sure if it is worth the extra cost? Well, you're in luck! Almost all the vendors at the expo have samples for you to try their products for FREE. Last year, I was so stuffed that I didn't need to eat morning snack, lunch and even after snack during the event.  The best part is that you are most welcome to bring the samples home. 

3. Coupons and Discounted Prices

      I don't know about you but finding coupons for food allergy friendly coupons are very challenging.  In fact, you'll barely any on the Sunday paper.  Sure you can print some online one time or twice. That's it.  During the expo, the exhibitors are really generous in giving out their coveted coupons. There are even some vendors who directly sell their products at a huge discount. 

        Last year, I did major grocery shopping at the GFAF Expo. There were products sold at 20-50% off the retail price!  Just a little tip. If you would like to shop, bring cash with you because some vendors don't have access to credit card processing.  

4. Informative Classes 

        As part of your admission ticket, you will have access to free classes from selected experts on the field of food allergy and gluten free living.  Check out the time and schedule here.  

5. Meet the Authors and Company Representatives

      Do you have a favorite gluten free or food allergy author?  Have you ever tried to reach a certain company?  This is your chance to personally meet them. You'll be able to get answers immediately and even have a selfie with them.  

        Want to meet me in person? As an official blogger, I will be there too.  Though most of the time, I'll be going from one vendor to the next to cover the event, I'm more than happy to meet you there. Just send me a quick message so that I can keep you posted where I am at a particular time. Also, let's connect twitter.    

          So, are you getting excited to go to the GFAF Expo this year? I have not one but two treats for you.  First, you can enjoy a 20% discount on an admission ticket just for being my friend. Simply use the coupon code EXPONJ20 when you purchase a ticket online. 

         The next one is that I am giving away a FREE admission ticket to 4 lucky friends!

         What are you waiting for?   Let's me up soon. 

- Roz

           

      

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Giveaway: 2 Tickets for the Gluten Free Allergen Free Expo in New Jersey

       Time really flies so fast.  I can't believe it is almost a year since our family started converting our home to an allergy friendly one.  That meant we successfully lived without wheat/gluten, dairy, soy, egg, peanuts and nuts in our diet.  Okay, I confess, I did cheat a few times but in general, our family did quite well.

        The past 12 months has been a real roller coaster ride.  From finding which products are safe for the kids to cooking and baking tasty food that the whole family will actually eat, dealing with food allergies is really a never ending adventure.  If only there is a store that is completely food allergy friendly, everything will be a lot easier.
       
         Earlier last month, I think my prayers were answered.  I learned that the Gluten Free and Allergen Free Expo will be heading to New Jersey this September.  With a twist of faith, I became an official blogger for the event as well. 

           With more than 150 vendors in one venue, it is definitely a food allergy mom's dream come true.  Aside from being able to talk to companies directly, there will be product sampling and coupons to be handed out.  Oh did I mention that one of the sponsors, Holy Crap Cereal is also hosting a giveaway for the attendees?   Plus there are free informative classes available. Can you feel my excitement?

       

             Now, I got something even better for all of you.  The wonderful people of GFAF Expo has provided me TWO (2) adult admission tickets to giveaway.  That means 2 of my lucky readers will be able to go to the event for FREE and experience first hand what I am talking about. 

              What are you waiting for?  Enter now and share it to your friends and family.  Who knows? Maybe we could hang out there too.

              Happy September!

- Roz
       

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Gluten Free, Allergen Free Expo goes to New Jersey

       It's official!  I will be attending the GFAF Expo at the Meadowlands in Secaucus, New Jersey on September 7-8, 2013.  Can't believe I have missed this event during my first months of going food allergy friendly. 

 

        Why am I so excited?  For starters, the Gluten Free and Allergen Free Expo is the country's largest gathering dedicated to help individuals and caregivers (like me) of people with special food requirements.  It features free classes taught by experts on gluten free baking.  There are also a session that gives tips on safely eating out and travelling.  A must especially for us moms with food allergy kids.

 

 

 

 

        The highlight of the GFAF Expo is the vendor fair.  With more than 150 unique booths from companies that specifically cater to us gluten and food allergy market, it will be like having a mall created just for us. As an attendee, I will be able to sample products directly from the makers.  I can also get coupons which I love.  Plus, I'll have an access to purchase items at a discount.  Oh, did I mention that the event is open to everyone.  That means, you and even your child can go too. Isn't that sweet?

 

         Best part of having a chance to be there is that I will be able to meet fellow food allergy people.  Not only will I learn something new, I will be able to share more information to you my beloved readers and followers. 

 

        If you want to more information about the event, please check the official website http://gfafexpo.com.  There you will see the sponsors, list of classes, speakers and even purchase tickets online. 

 

         So, are you going too?  Let me know so that we can meet up and chat.  

 

- Roz        

       

Today's National Dine Out Day

       Guess what? I'm not cooking dinner tonight!  My family and I will be eating out later to support  restaurants who are pledged to donate a portion of day's sales to the Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund.  As all of you might have noticed, I am based in New Jersey and am quite active in trying to give some love to my beloved Jersey shore people. 

 

        What's so great about this event is that you don't have to be in NJ to give some support.  There are about 3,000 restaurants across the country who are participating.  Just check out which ones are close to you here.  I'm sure your favorite place is included.

 

 

 

 

          "Eating out with the family." I know what you are thinking.  You are now starting to wonder where can I possibly take my children who are gluten, egg, dairy, soy and nut free.  Well, after some time of trial and error, we now have a few Go To establishments.  Would you like me share them with you soon?  

 

          In the mean time, I have to get ready for this dinner out for a cause. Have a relaxing evening Frugalistas.

 

- Roz 

Best Places to Eat in Wildwood, New Jersey

     Hello Frugalista Friends!  It's great to be back after a long blogging vacation.  If you follow me in Instagram, I'm pretty sure you already know what I was up too.  If not, don't worry, I'm posting the experiences so that we can catch up.

 

      For starters, I welcomed the first weekend of June with our family's yearly trip to the Wildwoods --- North Wildwood, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest.   Why that early?  Well, here's an insider tip, the room rates for the month of June are way lower than the regular summer rates.  The weather is often beautiful and the big crowds aren't there yet.  That means very few lines and lots of space on the boardwalk, shore, swimming pools and even parking.     

 

       This year, I am even more excited to go the shore because the small business owners, local restaurants in particular, did their best to open in spite of being greatly affected by Hurricane Sandy.  Since my trip will not be complete without having a bite of these yummy vacation treats, I decided to share with you my favorites.  Though most aren't that friendly to my children's restricted food requirements, I still posted them.  After all, I don't have any food allergies. In those rare times that I do indulge, I make sure it's worth every bite.  As for my kids, I did have a big stash of home cooked meals packed for the trip.  What a lifesaver especially when you will eating out.  

 

 

 

 

        We arrived around 6 pm so our first stop is the boardwalk.  Funnel cakes, pizza, burgers and more are readily available.  Since most aren't exactly gluten, dairy, egg, soy and dairy free, I stick to the Polish Ices which are friendlier to my children's food allergies.  What are those?  Well, it is basically identical to the Italian Ices or Slushies that we love so much.   Why they call it Polish instead of Italian? Well, I dare not ask. They are quite serious about the difference though as when my kids asked if they can have "Italian" Ice, the servers told them that they don't have those.  A big plus with this treat is that  one can ask for samples without any cost. Yup! Free tastings! 

 

 

 

          My trip to Wildwoods will not be complete without a snack at Maui's Mad Dog House.  This bright yellow hotdog place which has been featured in Dinner, Drive Ins and Dives show is not your typical stand of your ballpark favorite. These are gourmet hotdogs without the high price.  My favorite is the Soprano which is hotdog on a bun loaded with sautéed spinach and garlic in olive oil with white wine and parmesan cheese. Yum! Totally not for my food allergy kids.  The fries are to die for too. It's gluten free but is fried in peanut oil.  Dining here is an experience so if you don't have peanut allergy and is not strictly gluten free, this place is a must in your list.

 

       Another specialty restaurant to try is Smoke n Bones BBQ.  Only open for dinner Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, this small but friendly place by the water is a real crowd pleaser. If you are fortunate to be in the area on the weekends, I suggest you check their menu online and give them a call ahead of time.  We usually call in our order and just pick it up. The place gets really crowded too.  What makes their BBQ so special?  They do it the old fashioned way which means slow cooked for days.  Take note, this place isn't allergy friendly but the ribs and sides are super yummy and very affordable.  Oh, almost forgot, they are open for breakfast everyday.

 

       Last but not the least is Cool Scoops.  This retro ice cream place is the "cool" place to go for dessert.  Not only are the flavors delectable, the shop itself is one of a kind. It is filled with lots of memorabilia including a larger than life Elvis statue.  Even though it's loaded with museum like collections, the atmosphere remained very friendly.   The best part about Cool Scoops is that they offer dairy free, food allergy friendly ice cream which is made with either soy milk or rice milk.  They even have gluten free ice cream cones! Since the owner also has food allergies, (yes, she told me so.) they know first hand how to handle items to avoid possible contaminations.   A big relief to us with special food requirements. 

 

       So friends, that's it for my Friday Finds this week.  I hope I was able to give you a glance at the Wildwoods.  If you're getting hungry so am I.  So, what's for dinner? 

 

- Roz