About the Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo
The Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo (GFAF Expo) is one of the most comprehensive and engaging health-focused events in the United States dedicated to individuals who are living gluten-free or managing food allergies and sensitivities. Held annually at various locations including Schaumburg, IL and Meadowlands, NJ, this event brings together a dynamic mix of attendees, industry professionals, manufacturers, and educators, all focused on allergen-free living.
As more people are diagnosed with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and food allergies, the relevance and popularity of the GFAF Expo continue to grow. This expo is more than just a trade show—it’s a community-driven experience that provides education, support, and access to the latest in safe food products.
Venue and Schedule Information
The Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo is hosted in multiple cities throughout the year. Two of the most prominent venues are:
- Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, Illinois
- Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, New Jersey
Typical dates:
The events are generally held between March and November, depending on the location. Each show spans two full days, usually over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday), to maximize attendance and convenience for families.
Event hours:
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM on both days.
Ticket cost:
General Admission tickets typically range from $15 to $30 per person, with early bird discounts and special rates available for families and groups. Children under 12 often get free entry.
Product Categories Exhibited
The expo is a diverse showcase of products and services catering to the needs of gluten-free and allergy-sensitive lifestyles. Some of the major product categories include:
- Gluten-free baked goods, snacks, and beverages
- Allergen-free alternatives (nut-free, dairy-free, soy-free)
- Nutritional supplements and health aids
- Certified organic and non-GMO products
- Skin care and beauty products for sensitive skin
- Cookbooks, kitchenware, and food prep tools
- Medical information and diagnostic solutions
- Meal kits, ready-to-eat options, and clean-label brands
All vendors are vetted to ensure product safety and proper allergen labeling, creating a reliable environment for attendees.
Visitor Profile and Attendance
Each location attracts 3,000 to 5,000+ visitors, including:
- Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
- Families managing multiple food allergies
- Dietitians, nutritionists, and health coaches
- Retailers, grocers, and natural food buyers
- Food bloggers, influencers, and health journalists
- Medical professionals and allergists
The GFAF Expo offers both B2C and B2B engagement, making it a vital platform for learning and connecting.
Nearby Hotels and Accommodations
For attendees traveling to Schaumburg, IL, top-rated hotels near the venue include:
- Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel – Attached to the convention center, convenient and upscale.
- Hyatt Regency Schaumburg – Close by with shuttle service and allergy-aware dining.
- Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall – Budget-friendly and family-suited.
For the Meadowlands, NJ venue:
- Hyatt Place Secaucus/Meadowlands – Modern amenities and walking distance to the expo center.
- Extended Stay America Secaucus – Offers in-room kitchens, ideal for dietary-sensitive visitors.
- Hilton Garden Inn Secaucus/Meadowlands – Spacious rooms and allergy-friendly services.
Attendees are encouraged to book early as hotels often fill up due to the high demand during expo weekends.
Benefits of Attending the GFAF Expo
The expo goes far beyond product sampling. Visitors benefit in numerous ways:
- Exclusive product tastings from emerging and established allergen-free brands.
- Educational sessions with leading medical experts, dietitians, and chefs.
- Access to hard-to-find products and specialty suppliers.
- Discounted product purchases and show-exclusive promotions.
- Networking with others in the gluten-free and allergy-conscious community.
- Hands-on demonstrations and recipe inspiration.
- Health screenings and consultations with certified professionals.
- Kid-friendly activities in safe, monitored areas.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time advocate of allergen-free living, the GFAF Expo offers tools and support to help you thrive.
Event Highlights and Perks
Some of the most popular features of the GFAF Expo include:
- Samples from over 100 brands: Attendees receive reusable bags and access to a wide variety of foods and products to try.
- Meet-and-greet sessions with cookbook authors, health experts, and brand founders.
- Interactive sessions on meal planning, label reading, cross-contamination avoidance, and allergy-safe cooking.
- Giveaways and contests throughout the event with premium prizes.
The expo also provides certified gluten-free zones and clearly marked allergen information, ensuring maximum safety for all participants.
Who Should Attend
The Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo is ideal for:
- Families with children who have food allergies
- People recently diagnosed with celiac disease
- Health-conscious individuals looking for clean-label and sustainable food options
- Medical professionals looking to stay updated on nutrition and food safety
- Small businesses and retailers wanting to source trusted allergen-free products
This event is not just informative—it’s transformative. Many attendees discover new lifestyle habits, support networks, and healthier alternatives that shape their lives far beyond the expo.
Why This Event Matters
In a time when dietary restrictions are more common than ever, the Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo serves a critical role in public health and awareness. It provides a safe space for education, exploration, and empowerment for people who often feel excluded from mainstream food and product options.
It also helps to bridge the gap between consumers and companies, promoting transparency, product innovation, and better labeling standards across the food and wellness industries.
Where to Learn More and Book Tickets
To learn more about upcoming dates, full exhibitor lists, educational seminars, and to book your tickets, visit the official website:
This is the central hub for all Gluten-Free & Allergen Friendly Expo updates and event details for each city.