How I Turned My Kids’ Food Intolerances into a Thriving Bakery: The Inspiring Journey of Borough 22

Ryan Panchoo faced a hurdle when his kids struggled to find tasty, safe food. Their allergies made meals at gatherings disappointing. This heartbreak inspired him to create Borough 22 Doughnuts, a bakery focused on delicious, allergen-friendly treats.

Starting this journey without a cooking background in 2014, Ryan began making gluten-free and dairy-free doughnuts as a side project. Over the years, he spent endless time perfecting his recipes. After extensive trial and error, he finally nailed a deep-fried, allergen-friendly doughnut in May 2022. “It changed everything for the business,” he said.

Today, his bakery offers awards-winning products that are vegan, nut-free, and certified halal and kosher. Recently, Borough 22 Doughnuts launched a six-week pop-up in Birmingham’s Selfridges, which may lead to a permanent location in the city if sales go well.

Ryan’s journey is more than just about making doughnuts. It’s also about inclusivity. All of his treats are crafted in a nut-free environment, and most are free from the UK’s 14 main allergens, apart from some toppings that contain soy. “I want everyone to enjoy these doughnuts without feeling left out,” he explained.

The “free from” food market is booming. It’s worth £4.2 billion annually in the UK, and according to research from The Grocer, it’s one of the fastest-growing sectors in the bakery industry. This boom reflects rising consumer awareness of allergies and intolerances, especially after the enactment of Natasha’s Law in 2021, which mandates clearer food labeling.

Despite this progress, Ryan notes that many companies approach allergen-friendly options with a “tick box mentality.” He believes it’s essential to create truly enjoyable food, not just cater to a trend. His goal is simple: “I want to show that free-from can be fantastic,” he said.

As Borough 22 expands, Ryan remains focused on quality and taste. He understands the importance of making food accessible for everyone. With his personal story driving the mission, he aims not just to sell doughnuts but to foster a sense of belonging for those with dietary restrictions.

Source link