The event, in collaboration with Coeliac UK, was held in Parliament.
Coeliac disease is a serious auto-immune disease which affects 1 in 100 people in the UK.
Left untreated, it can lead to osteo-porosis, neurological dysfunction, unexplained infertility and – in rare cases – even small bowel cancer.
The only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet for life – yet gluten free products are expensive.
Research from Coeliac UK has shown that a full weekly food shop suitable for a gluten-free diet costs 35% more than a standard food shop.
Dr Huq highlighted to her fellow MPs that, for those with coeliac disease, the cost of living crisis risks becoming a health crisis.
Previously, NHS England acknowledged the financial cost by offering staple foods, like bread and flour, on prescription. However, this support has been withdrawn.
She informed the Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Sharon Hodgson MP, about a growing postcode lottery.
The minister heard how coeliac patients in England are at a significant disadvantage to those in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where there have been improvements in support.
Dr Huq has now secured a ministerial meeting on the subject.
