California Pizza Kitchen Launches Gluten-Free Pizzas through the Gluten-Free Food Service Certification Program

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), working with the Gluten-Free Food Service Certification program(GFFS), an industry program of the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) has launched a line of certified gluten-free pizzas at all locations nationwide. Standardized national education programs for staff and preparation processes for pizzas were created for California Pizza Kitchen in accordance with the Gluten-Free Food Service program guidelines to ensure best practices for safe gluten free pizza options.

The procedures in place create a standardized system for all locations that focus on preventing cross contamination when making gluten-free pizzas. These procedures demonstrate the best practices in identification, storage, production, sanitation, training, and monitoring of gluten-free food. Dedicated ingredient storage areas, dedicated preparation areas, and required manager oversight for the preparation of each gluten-free pizza ensures a standard of excellence that can at clearly measured at every location.

The Gluten Intolerance Group through the gluten-Free Food Service program routinely audits restaurant locations to ensure program compliance. Every location audited by the Gluten-Free Food Service must receive an audit score of 85% or higher to receive a passing grade. The onsite auditing process enables standardized training of employees and management to be established and adhered to at all California Pizza Kitchen locations.

"We look forward to partnering with California Pizza Kitchen as the company is committed to maintaining strict policies to ensure that guests are served quality pizzas that meet our gluten-free guidelines," Cynthia Kupper, Executive Director, Gluten Intolerance Group.