FAQ

Gluten is a group of proteins found in certain grains, primarily wheat, barley, and rye. It gives dough its elasticity, allowing it to rise and maintain its shape during baking. Gluten is composed of two main proteins: glutenin and gliadin. These proteins can cause adverse reactions in some individuals, particularly those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergy. When people with these conditions consume gluten, it can trigger various symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal discomfort to more severe health issues.

1. Wheat-based products: bread, pasta, couscous, flour tortillas, wheat-based cereals, wheat bran, wheat germ.

2. Barley: malt, malt extract, malt vinegar, beer

3.  Rye: rye bread, rye flour, some rye beers.

4. Foods made with these grains: baked goods, cakes, cookies, pastries, pizza, crackers, croutons.

5.  Processed foods: certain sauces, gravies, soups, salad dressings, marinades, and some condiments may contain gluten as a thickening agent or filler.

It's important to carefully read labels and ingredient lists, as gluten can hide in unexpected places. Additionally, cross-contamination can occur in shared cooking and preparation areas, so it's crucial for individuals with gluten-related disorders to be vigilant about potential sources of gluten.

Some people need to avoid gluten due to specific health conditions or sensitivities:

·      Celiac disease: This is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Over time, this damage can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food, leading to various symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss. Long-term complications can include malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of other autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.

·      Non-celiac gluten sensitivity: Some individuals experience symptoms similar to those of celiac disease when they consume gluten, but they do not have the same autoimmune response or intestinal damage. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal issues (such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation), as well as fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and mood disturbances. While the exact cause of non-celiac gluten sensitivity is not fully understood, avoiding gluten-containing foods can alleviate symptoms for many affected individuals.

·      Wheat allergy: A wheat allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in wheat, which can include gluten proteins. Symptoms can range from mild (such as hives or itching) to severe (such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis). People with a wheat allergy must avoid all wheat-containing foods, which often means avoiding gluten as well.

For these individuals, following a gluten-free diet is essential for managing their health and preventing symptoms and complications associated with their condition.

Gluten intolerance or sensitivity, commonly known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), refers to a condition where individuals experience symptoms related to the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, but do not have celiac disease or a wheat allergy. While the precise mechanisms and diagnostic criteria for NCGS are still somewhat unclear and debated among medical professionals, various symptoms and associated health conditions have been reported. Here are some of the common health conditions and symptoms associated with gluten intolerance or sensitivity:

·      Gastrointestinal Symptoms: The most common symptoms involve the digestive system and include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms are similar to those experienced in other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

·      Neurological Symptoms: Some individuals report neurological issues such as headaches, including migraines, and a condition called "gluten ataxia," characterized by a loss of control over bodily movements. There is also some evidence to suggest a link between gluten sensitivity and neuropathic pain or brain fog, which involves confusion, forgetfulness, and difficulty focusing.

·      Dermatological Issues: Skin conditions such as dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), though typically associated with celiac disease, can also appear in the context of gluten intolerance. Other non-specific skin reactions may also occur.

·      Psychiatric and Psychological Issues: There are reports of mood swings, depression, and anxiety in individuals with NCGS, though the direct correlation to gluten intake is still under study.

·      Musculoskeletal Symptoms: Joint and muscle pains are sometimes reported by those sensitive to gluten, though these symptoms are less specific and can be associated with many other conditions.

·      Fatigue and General Weakness: Chronic fatigue or general feelings of being unwell are frequently reported by individuals with gluten sensitivity.

·      Autoimmune Disorders: While not directly caused by NCGS, individuals with autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or rheumatoid arthritis often report improvements in symptoms when following a gluten-free diet.

It is important to note that these symptoms are nonspecific and can overlap with many other conditions, making diagnosis based on symptoms alone challenging. The management of NCGS typically involves a diet free of gluten, which should be attempted only after other conditions like celiac disease and wheat allergy have been ruled out through appropriate tests done by your healthcare professional. Because the range of symptoms can be broad and sometimes vague, and there is no specific diagnostic test for NCGS, it is essential for individuals suspecting they have gluten-related problems to consult healthcare providers to rule out other possible diagnoses and to receive guidance on dietary management.

Following a gluten-free diet has specific benefits primarily for individuals with certain health conditions where gluten poses a problem. Here’s a look at who benefits most from a gluten-free diet and some potential general benefits:

·      Celiac Disease: For people with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine. Following a gluten-free diet is essential for these individuals to prevent damage to their intestinal lining, reduce symptoms, and decrease the risk of developing associated complications such as anaemia, osteoporosis, and more severe autoimmune conditions.

·      Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): Those with NCGS may experience significant relief of symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, foggy mind, fatigue, and headaches when they eliminate gluten from their diet.

·      Wheat Allergy: Individuals with a wheat allergy must avoid wheat, and a gluten-free diet can be a part of managing this condition. However, it's crucial for those with wheat allergy to specifically avoid wheat and related products, not all gluten-containing grains.

·      Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH): This skin condition, associated with celiac disease, responds well to a gluten-free diet, which can help alleviate the itchy, blistering rash typically seen in DH.

·      Some Autoimmune Disorders: While not a cure, some people with autoimmune disorders (like autoimmune thyroid disease) report improvements in their symptoms when following a gluten-free diet, although this is very individual and not guaranteed.

·      Improved Digestive Health: People often report fewer digestive complaints, such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation, when removing gluten from their diet, particularly if they have an underlying sensitivity.

·      Reduced Inflammation: For some individuals, particularly those with an underlying sensitivity to gluten, cutting it out can lead to reduced levels of inflammation.

·      Increased Energy: People with gluten-related disorders often experience a boost in energy once they remove gluten from their diet, likely due to a combination of better nutrient absorption and reduction in inflammation.

·      Better Awareness of Food Choices: Following a gluten-free diet requires careful reading of food labels and an awareness of ingredients, which can lead to making more conscious and potentially healthier food choices.

It’s important to note that a gluten-free diet is not inherently healthier for the general population and does not necessarily promote weight loss. Gluten-free products can sometimes be higher in sugars and fats and lower in fiber than their gluten-containing counterparts. Therefore, unless medically necessary, there's no clear advantage to adopting a gluten-free diet for the general public. For those who do need to follow this diet, it is beneficial to focus on naturally gluten-free grains (like rice, quinoa, and corn), fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy to maintain a balanced diet.

Potential benefits of a gluten-free diet include improved digestive health, reduced inflammation, increased energy, weight management, and improved skin health, however unless you have a diagnosed condition that requires a gluten-free diet, there is no significant health benefit to avoiding gluten altogether. In fact, whole grains, which contain gluten, are a healthy part of the diet for most people and contribute to a well-rounded and nutritionally adequate diet. If you suspect you have issues with gluten, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper testing and diagnosis before starting a gluten-free diet. This approach ensures that any underlying health issues are correctly identified and managed.

Following a gluten-free diet can be essential for managing certain health conditions like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and wheat allergy. However, this diet also comes with several challenges, ranging from dietary restrictions and nutritional concerns to social and economic impacts. Here are some of the potential challenges individuals might face:

·      Nutritional Deficiencies: Gluten-free diets can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients because many gluten-containing grains are important sources of:

o   Fiber: Helps with digestion and prevents constipation.

o   Iron: Essential for blood production and energy.

o   Calcium: Important for bone health.

o   Vitamin B: Crucial for various metabolic and neurological functions.

o   Folic Acid: Important for cell division and is especially critical during pregnancy.

Many commercially available gluten-free products are made with refined flours that are not fortified with these nutrients, unlike many gluten-containing products.

·      Higher Costs: Gluten-free products are often more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts. 

·      Limited Food Choices: Gluten is a common ingredient in many foods, including breads, pastas, cereals, and many processed foods. Avoiding gluten altogether narrows food choices, which can be particularly challenging when eating out or traveling. Gluten can also be found in less obvious products like sauces, some processed meats, soups, and even some medications and supplements, requiring constant vigilance.

·      Risk of Cross-Contamination: For individuals with celiac disease, even small amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms. This makes cross-contamination a serious concern, especially when dining out or using shared kitchen facilities. Preparing gluten-free food in a kitchen where gluten-containing foods are also prepared requires careful management to avoid cross-contamination.

·      Social and Psychological Impact: Social gatherings often centre around food, and having strict dietary restrictions can feel isolating. Individuals may feel excluded at social events where options are limited, or they may need to bring their own food. There is also the mental load of constantly having to scrutinize labels and menus, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

·      Misinformation and Scepticism: There is a lot of misinformation regarding gluten-free diets, and people who follow them out of medical necessity may face scepticism. This can be frustrating and may lead to misunderstandings or dismissive attitudes from others.

·      Lifestyle Adjustment: Adopting a gluten-free diet requires significant adjustments to shopping, cooking, and eating habits. Learning to read labels for hidden sources of gluten, finding suitable substitutes, and adjusting cooking techniques can take considerable time and effort.

Despite these challenges, a gluten-free diet is essential for managing certain medical conditions and can lead to significant health improvements for those affected. For individuals who need to follow this diet, consultation with a healthcare provider or a dietitian can help manage the transition and ensure a balanced diet is maintained. For others considering a gluten-free diet for lifestyle or health trends, it's important to weigh these challenges against the potential benefits.

Determining whether to avoid gluten involves several steps, primarily to rule out conditions like celiac disease, wheat allergy, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

Here’s how someone can go about determining if they need to avoid gluten:

·      Symptom Assessment: Keep a detailed food and symptom diary to identify any correlations between gluten consumption and symptoms. Symptoms of gluten-related disorders can include, but are not limited to, gastrointestinal issues (such as bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation), fatigue, skin rashes, joint pain, or neurological symptoms.

·      Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any elimination diets, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess symptoms and determine if further testing is necessary. Removing gluten from your diet before testing could interfere with test results, making it harder to receive an accurate diagnosis.

·      Testing for Celiac Disease: If celiac disease is suspected based on symptoms or family history, a healthcare provider will typically order a blood test to check for specific antibodies (such as tTG-IgA and others). If the test results suggest celiac disease, an endoscopic biopsy of the small intestine may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

·      Testing for Wheat Allergy: A wheat allergy can be diagnosed through skin prick tests or specific IgE blood tests, which help to identify immediate allergic reactions to wheat proteins.

·      Evaluate for Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): NCGS is more challenging to diagnose due to the lack of specific biomarkers. Diagnosis is usually made by excluding celiac disease and wheat allergy and assessing the response to a gluten-free diet followed by a gluten challenge. This involves removing gluten from the diet to see if symptoms improve, then reintroducing it to see if symptoms return.

·      Nutritional and Dietary Assessment: Consulting a dietitian can be extremely beneficial, especially if a gluten-related disorder is diagnosed or suspected. A dietitian can help ensure that the gluten-free diet is balanced and nutritious, and can provide guidance on how to avoid gluten while maintaining a healthy intake of all necessary nutrients.

·      Follow-up:  Continual follow-up with healthcare providers is crucial, as it helps to monitor any ongoing symptoms, nutritional deficiencies, or the need for further adjustments in diet or treatment strategies.

The decision to avoid gluten should be based on medical advice and proper diagnosis. Self-diagnosing and unnecessarily starting a gluten-free diet without professional guidance can lead to missed or misdiagnoses, nutritional deficiencies, and increased medical costs. If gluten-related disorders are ruled out but symptoms persist, it's important to explore other possible causes with your healthcare provider.

For individuals who need or choose to follow a gluten-free diet, finding alternatives to traditional gluten-containing foods is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and enjoy a variety of foods. Fortunately, there are many gluten-free alternatives available today that can help make the transition easier. Here are some common gluten-free substitutes for traditional gluten-containing foods:

·      Breads and Baked Goods: Gluten-Free Flour Mixes: These are made from a variety of gluten-free grains, nuts, and starches. Common ingredients include rice flour, almond flour, coconut flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour.

·      Commercial Gluten-Free Bread: Many brands offer gluten-free options that mimic the texture and flavor of wheat bread.

·      Pasta: Gluten-Free Pasta: Available in supermarkets, these pastas are often made from rice, corn, quinoa, or a blend of gluten-free flours.

·      Vegetable Noodles: Spiralized vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes are healthy, naturally gluten-free alternatives to traditional pasta.

·      Cereals: Gluten-Free Oats: While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often contaminated with gluten during processing. Look for oats specifically labelled as gluten-free.

·      Rice and Corn-Based Cereals: Many cereals are made from rice or corn instead of wheat and are labelled as gluten-free.

·      Flour for Baking and Cooking: Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: A staple for gluten-free baking, it can replace wheat flour in most recipes.

·      Other Gluten-Free Flours: Sorghum flour, amaranth flour, and buckwheat flour offer different flavors and nutritional profiles for baking and cooking.

·      Snacks: Rice Cakes and Gluten-Free Crackers: A wide range of gluten-free snacks are available that cater to gluten-free diets.

·      Popcorn: Naturally gluten-free, popcorn is a great snack as long as it doesn’t have added flavorings that contain gluten.

·      Sauces and Condiments: Tamari: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, which is typically brewed with wheat.

·      Gluten-Free Soy Sauce and Marinades: Look for those specifically labeled as gluten-free.

·      Beer: Gluten-Free Beer: Traditional beers are brewed from barley, which contains gluten. Gluten-free beers use alternative grains such as sorghum, rice, or corn.

·      Seitan Alternatives: Tofu and Tempeh: Excellent protein sources for those who avoid gluten, which is commonly found in seitan (wheat gluten).

·      Tips for Shopping Gluten-Free: Read Labels Carefully: Food labelling regulations require allergens like wheat to be listed clearly. However, barley and rye are often not as clearly marked, so knowledge of ingredient names is important.

·      Watch for Cross-Contamination: In facilities that process both gluten-containing and gluten-free products, there is a risk of cross-contamination. Look for products certified gluten-free.

These alternatives not only help manage a gluten-free diet but also ensure a varied and enjoyable eating experience. As gluten-free diets have become more common, the availability and variety of gluten-free products have greatly increased, making it easier than ever to find suitable alternatives.

Ensuring adequate nutrition on a gluten-free diet involves careful planning and consideration because removing gluten-containing grains can limit intake of certain essential nutrients. Here are several strategies to help maintain a balanced, nutritious gluten-free diet:

1. Diversify Your Grain Intake

Incorporate a variety of gluten-free grains to ensure a wide range of nutrients:

·      Quinoa: Rich in protein, fibre, iron, magnesium, and manganese.

·      Brown Rice: Good source of magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, thiamine, niacin, and vitamin B6.

·      Buckwheat: High in fibre, magnesium, copper, and manganese.

·      Millet: Provides phosphorus, magnesium, and antioxidants.

·      Amaranth: High in fibre, protein, and micronutrients like manganese.

2. Include Nutrient-Dense Foods

Focus on foods that are naturally gluten-free and nutrient-rich:

·      Fruits and Vegetables: A great source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

·      Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are excellent sources of protein, iron, fiber, and B vitamins.

·      Nuts and Seeds: Include a variety of nuts and seeds as they offer healthy fats, proteins, fibre, and vitamins like vitamin E.

3. Select Fortified Products

Look for gluten-free products that are fortified with vitamins and minerals:

·      Gluten-Free Breads and Cereals: Often fortified with iron and B vitamins, similar to their gluten-containing counterparts.

·      Dairy or Non-Dairy Alternatives: Choose products fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

4. Consume Adequate Protein

Ensure you get enough protein from a variety of sources:

·      Animal-Based Proteins: Meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products.

·      Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu, tempeh, and legumes are excellent for vegans and vegetarians.

5. Manage Calcium and Vitamin D Intake

Bone health can be a concern on a gluten-free diet, particularly in celiac disease due to malabsorption:

·      Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are high in calcium and often fortified with vitamin D.

·      Calcium-Rich Plant Foods: Include kale, broccoli, and almonds.

·      Vitamin D: Apart from fortified foods, sunlight exposure can help maintain adequate levels.

6. Monitor Iron and B Vitamin Intake

Iron and B vitamins are crucial, especially since traditional sources like fortified breads and cereals are restricted:

·      Iron: Red meat, chicken, fish, lentils, and spinach are good sources. Consider consuming them with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance absorption.

·      B Vitamins: Apart from meat and dairy, consider gluten-free whole grains, eggs, and fortified foods.

7. Use Supplements Wisely

Discuss with a healthcare provider whether you need supplements based on your dietary intake and nutritional status. Common supplements might include:

·      Multivitamins: To cover general deficiencies.

·      Iron: If you're prone to anaemia.

·      B Vitamins: Particularly B12 and folate.

·      Vitamin D: Especially in areas with limited sunlight.

8. Consult with a Dietitian

If you’re unsure about how to balance your diet, consulting with a dietitian can provide personalized advice and guidance. This is particularly important in the case of having multiple dietary restrictions or health conditions.

Following these guidelines not only helps in avoiding gluten but also ensures that your diet remains balanced, diverse, and nutritious. This proactive approach is key to maintaining good health while managing a gluten-free lifestyle.

We will have 2 locations in Victoria for you to visit for in-store shopping:

1525 Pandora Ave (in Stadacona Centre, close to Oak Bay Junction)

105 - 3039 Merchant Way (at Belmont Market in Langford)

We currently have 2 locations in Greater Victoria with different hours.

1525 Pandora Ave (Victoria):

Mon - Thurs & Sat, 8:00am - 5:30pm
Fridays 8:00am - 6:30pm

Closed on Sundays & stat holidays

105 - 3039 Merchant Way (Westshore):

Mon - Sat, 8am - 5:30pm
Sundays 9am - 5:30pm

Closed stat holidays

Both locations closed on stat holidays, and an extended time between Christmas and New Year's Day.

Orders are available to pick up during these times:
VICTORIA  11am - 5pm
WESTSHORE  12pm - 5pm

Want to get delicious gluten-free treats delivered right to your door?  Please remember, we are not able to ship all items so be sure to check the delivery availability of all of our products at the top of each product page and see below for delivery days and rates!

We use eco-courier Geazone to deliver our goods on Vancouver Island, BC via electric cars! For deliveries in Victoria, the flat rate is $16.

For deliveries outside of Victoria, across Vancouver Island (excluding Gulf Islands) up to Campbell River, the flat rate is $21.50.

See if your postal code qualifies for flat rate delivery! Here's a list of partial postal codes that are in our Geazone delivery zones:

V9A, V9B, V9C, V9E, V8M, V8N, V8P, V8R, V8S, V8T, V8V, V8W, V8X, V8Y, V8Z, V9Z, V9G, V9H, V9J, V9K, V8L, V9L, V9M, V9N, V6P, V9R, V9S, V9T, V9V, V9W, V9X, V9Y, V0R, V8K (excludes gulf islands except Salt Spring Island)

See more on our Delivery page.

*Due to couriers currently not guaranteeing on-time service, we have disabled our shipping options at this time. The only 'shipping' option will be Vancouver Island delivery with our local courier Geazone.

We ship across Canada wherever you can receive shipping within 2 days. At checkout you will have the option of choosing your courier (options may include Canada Post, Purolator and UPS).

If you live on Vancouver Island you can choose a delivery option by Geazone instead - only $10 in Greater Victoria, or $15 outside Victoria!

At this time we are only shipping on Vancouver Island. Local Victoria area shipping is a flat rate of $10. Vancouver Island shipping is a flat rate of $15.

We require 2 business days' notice to prepare your order Before shipping it, and we may require more notice for large orders.

For more info on where we delivery and when, check out our Delivery page!

Returns

We do not accept product returns if you are dissatisfied due to personal taste, or change your mind, since we are unable to resell our food items.

You can find ingredients ahead of time by looking through our product menu, so make sure you choose products that contain the right ingredients for you. All sales are final, unless there is an error on our part, so make sure you have chosen the appropriate products before purchasing.

-----

Shipped Purchases:

Baked goods go through quite a journey in our mail system, and there is a chance that there might be some damage to your goods. Or, perhaps we missed an item in your order. Or maybe there was a hidden hole in your bread.

Whatever the reason, please reach out to us as soon as possible within 24 hours of receiving your order if you are unsatisfied. We will come up with a solution.

We do inspect our products prior to shipping to make sure we are sending you a properly made item. We do understand we may miss something though, and if our baking is faulty we will honour a return for exchange or refund.

Original shipping costs will not be refunded.

In the case of returning a faulty item, the shipping costs to return the item will be covered by Origin. 

Do not return any items before contacting us at info@originbakery.com. Please include:

- your order number

- the date your order arrived

- an explanation of the problem

- a picture of faulty goods

- specify your preference for refund, store credit or replacement items

To complete your return, we require a receipt or proof of purchase.

We do not accept responsibility for damage to goods during the shipping process, and will take great care to pack your items securely enough for average shipping conditions. If there is damage from shipping, please keep the shipping box for inspection by the courier so we are able to make a claim for damaged goods.

We will not accept responsibility for product spoilage due to shipping delays, or if the customer is not available to receive the order at the appropriate day and/or time.

If an order is returned to us because you entered an incorrect address, or you refused delivery, your payment will not be refunded. Depending on the shelf life of your items, we may be able to re-ship your order at your own expense.

Orders are accepted through our online store or in person at one of our locations (no orders via phone or email). Head to our shop via the button in the top menu to start browsing products and add to your cart. Once you have chosen all your items, you can check out by selecting the "cart" icon in the top right corner of the site!

We are only processing orders through our online store and in person at our locations. No orders via phone.
If you are having trouble ordering online please email or call us and we'll help with that process!

 Orders for pickup must be placed by 10:30am with the following notice:
  1 business day* prior to pickup:
   - most breads, buns, bars, dry goods
  2 business days* prior to pickup:
    - Sourdoughs/Harvest/Spring breads, cupcakes, cakes, cake/cupcake kits, sweet/savoury pastries, cookies
  1 week prior to pickup:
    - full sized cheesecakes

*business days are Mon - Sat, excluding stat holidays

Orders for Delivery must be placed by 10:30am 2 business days' prior to shipping.

Large orders of one item or special orders, like cakes with custom decoration may need even more notice, depending on the work required and we may invoice you via email to pay for custom charges.

Orders are available to pick up at these times:
VICTORIA  12pm - 4:30pm
WESTSHORE  12pm - 4:30pm

We do not accommodate same-day holds of products.

We will have earlier cut-offs before Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, so make sure to stay tuned for updates on our site, social media and newsletter.

For in-store payments, we accept cash, debit, Visa or Mastercard.

For payments online, we accept Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Shop Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay.

Privacy Statement

-----

SECTION 1 - WHAT DO WE DO WITH YOUR INFORMATION?

When you purchase something from our store, as part of the buying and selling process, we collect the personal information you give us such as your name, address and email address.

When you browse our store, we also automatically receive your computer’s internet protocol (IP) address in order to provide us with information that helps us learn about your browser and operating system.

If you sign up for our Newsletter, we may send you emails about our store, new products and other updates.

SECTION 2 - CONSENT

How do you get my consent?

When you provide us with personal information to complete a transaction, verify your credit card, place an order, arrange for a delivery or return a purchase, we imply that you consent to our collecting it and using it for that specific reason only.

If we ask for your personal information for a secondary reason, like marketing, we will either ask you directly for your expressed consent, or provide you with an opportunity to say no.

How do I withdraw my consent?

If after you opt-in, you change your mind, you may withdraw your consent for us to contact you, for the continued collection, use or disclosure of your information, at anytime, by contacting us at info@originbakery.com or mailing us at:

Origin Bakery

1525 Pandora Ave, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, V8R 6P9

SECTION 3 - DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required by law to do so or if you violate our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 - SHOPIFY

Our store is hosted on Shopify Inc. They provide us with the online e-commerce platform that allows us to sell our products and services to you.

Your data is stored through Shopify’s data storage, databases and the general Shopify application. They store your data on a secure server behind a firewall.

Payment:

If you choose a direct payment gateway to complete your purchase, then Shopify stores your credit card data. It is encrypted through the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS). Your purchase transaction data is stored only as long as is necessary to complete your purchase transaction. After that is complete, your purchase transaction information is deleted.

All direct payment gateways adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which is a joint effort of brands like Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover.

PCI-DSS requirements help ensure the secure handling of credit card information by our store and its service providers.

For more insight, you may also want to read Shopify’s Terms of Service (https://www.shopify.com/legal/terms) or Privacy Statement (https://www.shopify.com/legal/privacy).

SECTION 5 - THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

In general, the third-party providers used by us will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to allow them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies in respect to the information we are required to provide to them for your purchase-related transactions.

For these providers, we recommend that you read their privacy policies so you can understand the manner in which your personal information will be handled by these providers.

In particular, remember that certain providers may be located in or have facilities that are located a different jurisdiction than either you or us. So if you elect to proceed with a transaction that involves the services of a third-party service provider, then your information may become subject to the laws of the jurisdiction(s) in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

As an example, if you are located in Canada and your transaction is processed by a payment gateway located in the United States, then your personal information used in completing that transaction may be subject to disclosure under United States legislation, including the Patriot Act.

Once you leave our store’s website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or our website’s Terms of Service.

Links

When you click on links on our store, they may direct you away from our site. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of other sites and encourage you to read their privacy statements.

SECTION 6 - SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry best practices to make sure it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored with a AES-256 encryption.  Although no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional generally accepted industry standards.

SECTION 7 - COOKIES

 Here is a list of cookies that we use. We’ve listed them here so you that you can choose if you want to opt-out of cookies or not.

 _session_id, unique token, sessional, Allows Shopify to store information about your session (referrer, landing page, etc).

 _shopify_visit, no data held, Persistent for 30 minutes from the last visit, Used by our website provider’s internal stats tracker to record the number of visits

 _shopify_uniq, no data held, expires midnight (relative to the visitor) of the next day, Counts the number of visits to a store by a single customer.

cart, unique token, persistent for 2 weeks, Stores information about the contents of your cart.

 _secure_session_id, unique token, sessional

 storefront_digest, unique token, indefinite If the shop has a password, this is used to determine if the current visitor has access.

SECTION 8 - AGE OF CONSENT

 By using this site, you represent that you are at least the age of majority in your state or province of residence, or that you are the age of majority in your state or province of residence and you have given us your consent to allow any of your minor dependents to use this site.

SECTION 9 - CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this privacy policy at any time, so please review it frequently. Changes and clarifications will take effect immediately upon their posting on the website. If we make material changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated, so that you are aware of what information we collect, how we use it, and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

If our store is acquired or merged with another company, your information may be transferred to the new owners so that we may continue to sell products to you.

QUESTIONS AND CONTACT INFORMATION

If you would like to: access, correct, amend or delete any personal information we have about you, register a complaint, or simply want more information contact our Privacy Compliance Officer at info@originbakery.com or by mail at

Origin Bakery

[Re: Privacy Compliance Officer]

1525 Pandora Ave Victoria British Columbia CA V8R 6P9

TERMS OF SERVICE POLICY

-----

OVERVIEW

This website is operated by Origin Bakery. Throughout the site, the terms “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Origin Bakery. Origin Bakery offers this website, including all information, tools and services available from this site to you, the user, conditioned upon your acceptance of all terms, conditions, policies and notices stated here.

By visiting our site and/ or purchasing something from us, you engage in our “Service” and agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions (“Terms of Service”, “Terms”), including those additional terms and conditions and policies referenced herein and/or available by hyperlink. These Terms of Service apply  to all users of the site, including without limitation users who are browsers, vendors, customers, merchants, and/ or contributors of content.

Please read these Terms of Service carefully before accessing or using our website. By accessing or using any part of the site, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to all the terms and conditions of this agreement, then you may not access the website or use any services. If these Terms of Service are considered an offer, acceptance is expressly limited to these Terms of Service.

Any new features or tools which are added to the current store shall also be subject to the Terms of Service. You can review the most current version of the Terms of Service at any time on this page. We reserve the right to update, change or replace any part of these Terms of Service by posting updates and/or changes to our website. It is your responsibility to check this page periodically for changes. Your continued use of or access to the website following the posting of any changes constitutes acceptance of those changes.

Our store is hosted on Shopify Inc. They provide us with the online e-commerce platform that allows us to sell our products and services to you.

SECTION 1 - ONLINE STORE TERMS

By agreeing to these Terms of Service, you represent that you are at least the age of majority in your state or province of residence, or that you are the age of majority in your state or province of residence and you have given us your consent to allow any of your minor dependents to use this site.

You may not use our products for any illegal or unauthorized purpose nor may you, in the use of the Service, violate any laws in your jurisdiction (including but not limited to copyright laws).

You must not transmit any worms or viruses or any code of a destructive nature.

A breach or violation of any of the Terms will result in an immediate termination of your Services.

SECTION 2 - GENERAL CONDITIONS

We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason at any time.

You understand that your content (not including credit card information), may be transferred unencrypted and involve (a) transmissions over various networks; and (b) changes to conform and adapt to technical requirements of connecting networks or devices. Credit card information is always encrypted during transfer over networks.

You agree not to reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any portion of the Service, use of the Service, or access to the Service or any contact on the website through which the service is provided, without express written permission by us.

The headings used in this agreement are included for convenience only and will not limit or otherwise affect these Terms.

SECTION 3 - ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS AND TIMELINESS OF INFORMATION

We are not responsible if information made available on this site is not accurate, complete or current. The material on this site is provided for general information only and should not be relied upon or used as the sole basis for making decisions without consulting primary, more accurate, more complete or more timely sources of information. Any reliance on the material on this site is at your own risk.

This site may contain certain historical information. Historical information, necessarily, is not current and is provided for your reference only. We reserve the right to modify the contents of this site at any time, but we have no obligation to update any information on our site. You agree that it is your responsibility to monitor changes to our site.

SECTION 4 - MODIFICATIONS TO THE SERVICE AND PRICES

Prices for our products are subject to change without notice.

We reserve the right at any time to modify or discontinue the Service (or any part or content thereof) without notice at any time.

We shall not be liable to you or to any third-party for any modification, price change, suspension or discontinuance of the Service.

SECTION 5 - PRODUCTS OR SERVICES (if applicable)

Certain products or services may be available exclusively online through the website. These products or services may have limited quantities and are subject to return or exchange only according to our Return Policy.

We have made every effort to display as accurately as possible the colors and images of our products that appear at the store. We cannot guarantee that your computer monitor's display of any color will be accurate.

We reserve the right, but are not obligated, to limit the sales of our products or Services to any person, geographic region or jurisdiction. We may exercise this right on a case-by-case basis. We reserve the right to limit the quantities of any products or services that we offer. All descriptions of products or product pricing are subject to change at anytime without notice, at the sole discretion of us. We reserve the right to discontinue any product at any time. Any offer for any product or service made on this site is void where prohibited.

We do not warrant that the quality of any products, services, information, or other material purchased or obtained by you will meet your expectations, or that any errors in the Service will be corrected.

SECTION 6 - ACCURACY OF BILLING AND ACCOUNT INFORMATION

We reserve the right to refuse any order you place with us. We may, in our sole discretion, limit or cancel quantities purchased per person, per household or per order. These restrictions may include orders placed by or under the same customer account, the same credit card, and/or orders that use the same billing and/or shipping address. In the event that we make a change to or cancel an order, we may attempt to notify you by contacting the e-mail and/or billing address/phone number provided at the time the order was made. We reserve the right to limit or prohibit orders that, in our sole judgment, appear to be placed by dealers, resellers or distributors.

You agree to provide current, complete and accurate purchase and account information for all purchases made at our store. You agree to promptly update your account and other information, including your email address and credit card numbers and expiration dates, so that we can complete your transactions and contact you as needed.

For more detail, please review our Returns Policy.

SECTION 7 - OPTIONAL TOOLS

We may provide you with access to third-party tools over which we neither monitor nor have any control nor input.

You acknowledge and agree that we provide access to such tools ”as is” and “as available” without any warranties, representations or conditions of any kind and without any endorsement. We shall have no liability whatsoever arising from or relating to your use of optional third-party tools.

Any use by you of optional tools offered through the site is entirely at your own risk and discretion and you should ensure that you are familiar with and approve of the terms on which tools are provided by the relevant third-party provider(s).

We may also, in the future, offer new services and/or features through the website (including, the release of new tools and resources). Such new features and/or services shall also be subject to these Terms of Service.

SECTION 8 - THIRD-PARTY LINKS

Certain content, products and services available via our Service may include materials from third-parties.

Third-party links on this site may direct you to third-party websites that are not affiliated with us. We are not responsible for examining or evaluating the content or accuracy and we do not warrant and will not have any liability or responsibility for any third-party materials or websites, or for any other materials, products, or services of third-parties.

We are not liable for any harm or damages related to the purchase or use of goods, services, resources, content, or any other transactions made in connection with any third-party websites. Please review carefully the third-party's policies and practices and make sure you understand them before you engage in any transaction. Complaints, claims, concerns, or questions regarding third-party products should be directed to the third-party.

SECTION 9 - USER COMMENTS, FEEDBACK AND OTHER SUBMISSIONS

If, at our request, you send certain specific submissions (for example contest entries) or without a request from us you send creative ideas, suggestions, proposals, plans, or other materials, whether online, by email, by postal mail, or otherwise (collectively, 'comments'), you agree that we may, at any time, without restriction, edit, copy, publish, distribute, translate and otherwise use in any medium any comments that you forward to us. We are and shall be under no obligation (1) to maintain any comments in confidence; (2) to pay compensation for any comments; or (3) to respond to any comments.

We may, but have no obligation to, monitor, edit or remove content that we determine in our sole discretion are unlawful, offensive, threatening, libelous, defamatory, pornographic, obscene or otherwise objectionable or violates any party’s intellectual property or these Terms of Service.

You agree that your comments will not violate any right of any third-party, including copyright, trademark, privacy, personality or other personal or proprietary right. You further agree that your comments will not contain libelous or otherwise unlawful, abusive or obscene material, or contain any computer virus or other malware that could in any way affect the operation of the Service or any related website. You may not use a false e-mail address, pretend to be someone other than yourself, or otherwise mislead us or third-parties as to the origin of any comments. You are solely responsible for any comments you make and their accuracy. We take no responsibility and assume no liability for any comments posted by you or any third-party.

SECTION 10 - PERSONAL INFORMATION

Your submission of personal information through the store is governed by our Privacy Policy. To view our Privacy Policy.

SECTION 11 - ERRORS, INACCURACIES AND OMISSIONS

Occasionally there may be information on our site or in the Service that contains typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to product descriptions, pricing, promotions, offers, product shipping charges, transit times and availability. We reserve the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, and to change or update information or cancel orders if any information in the Service or on any related website is inaccurate at any time without prior notice (including after you have submitted your order).

We undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify information in the Service or on any related website, including without limitation, pricing information, except as required by law. No specified update or refresh date applied in the Service or on any related website, should be taken to indicate that all information in the Service or on any related website has been modified or updated.

SECTION 12 - PROHIBITED USES

In addition to other prohibitions as set forth in the Terms of Service, you are prohibited from using the site or its content: (a) for any unlawful purpose; (b) to solicit others to perform or participate in any unlawful acts; (c) to violate any international, federal, provincial or state regulations, rules, laws, or local ordinances; (d) to infringe upon or violate our intellectual property rights or the intellectual property rights of others; (e) to harass, abuse, insult, harm, defame, slander, disparage, intimidate, or discriminate based on gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, race, age, national origin, or disability; (f) to submit false or misleading information; (g) to upload or transmit viruses or any other type of malicious code that will or may be used in any way that will affect the functionality or operation of the Service or of any related website, other websites, or the Internet; (h) to collect or track the personal information of others; (i) to spam, phish, pharm, pretext, spider, crawl, or scrape; (j) for any obscene or immoral purpose; or (k) to interfere with or circumvent the security features of the Service or any related website, other websites, or the Internet. We reserve the right to terminate your use of the Service or any related website for violating any of the prohibited uses.

SECTION 13 - DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

We do not guarantee, represent or warrant that your use of our service will be uninterrupted, timely, secure or error-free.

We do not warrant that the results that may be obtained from the use of the service will be accurate or reliable.

You agree that from time to time we may remove the service for indefinite periods of time or cancel the service at any time, without notice to you.

You expressly agree that your use of, or inability to use, the service is at your sole risk. The service and all products and services delivered to you through the service are (except as expressly stated by us) provided 'as is' and 'as available' for your use, without any representation, warranties or conditions of any kind, either express or implied, including all implied warranties or conditions of merchantability, merchantable quality, fitness for a particular purpose, durability, title, and non-infringement.

In no case shall Origin Bakery, our directors, officers, employees, affiliates, agents, contractors, interns, suppliers, service providers or licensors be liable for any injury, loss, claim, or any direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, special, or consequential damages of any kind, including, without limitation lost profits, lost revenue, lost savings, loss of data, replacement costs, or any similar damages, whether based in contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability or otherwise, arising from your use of any of the service or any products procured using the service, or for any other claim related in any way to your use of the service or any product, including, but not limited to, any errors or omissions in any content, or any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the service or any content (or product) posted, transmitted, or otherwise made available via the service, even if advised of their possibility. Because some states or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or the limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, in such states or jurisdictions, our liability shall be limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.

SECTION 14 - INDEMNIFICATION

You agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Origin Bakery and our parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, officers, directors, agents, contractors, licensors, service providers, subcontractors, suppliers, interns and employees, harmless from any claim or demand, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, made by any third-party due to or arising out of your breach of these Terms of Service or the documents they incorporate by reference, or your violation of any law or the rights of a third-party.

SECTION 15 - SEVERABILITY

In the event that any provision of these Terms of Service is determined to be unlawful, void or unenforceable, such provision shall nonetheless be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, and the unenforceable portion shall be deemed to be severed from these Terms of Service, such determination shall not affect the validity and enforceability of any other remaining provisions.

SECTION 16 - TERMINATION

The obligations and liabilities of the parties incurred prior to the termination date shall survive the termination of this agreement for all purposes.

These Terms of Service are effective unless and until terminated by either you or us. You may terminate these Terms of Service at any time by notifying us that you no longer wish to use our Services, or when you cease using our site.

If in our sole judgment you fail, or we suspect that you have failed, to comply with any term or provision of these Terms of Service, we also may terminate this agreement at any time without notice and you will remain liable for all amounts due up to and including the date of termination; and/or accordingly may deny you access to our Services (or any part thereof).

SECTION 17 - ENTIRE AGREEMENT

The failure of us to exercise or enforce any right or provision of these Terms of Service shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

These Terms of Service and any policies or operating rules posted by us on this site or in respect to The Service constitutes the entire agreement and understanding between you and us and govern your use of the Service, superseding any prior or contemporaneous agreements, communications and proposals, whether oral or written, between you and us (including, but not limited to, any prior versions of the Terms of Service).

Any ambiguities in the interpretation of these Terms of Service shall not be construed against the drafting party.

SECTION 18 - GOVERNING LAW

These Terms of Service and any separate agreements whereby we provide you Services shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of British Columbia, Canada.

SECTION 19 - CHANGES TO TERMS OF SERVICE

You can review the most current version of the Terms of Service at any time at this page.

We reserve the right, at our sole discretion, to update, change or replace any part of these Terms of Service by posting updates and changes to our website. It is your responsibility to check our website periodically for changes. Your continued use of or access to our website or the Service following the posting of any changes to these Terms of Service constitutes acceptance of those changes.

SECTION 20 - CONTACT INFORMATION

Questions about the Terms of Service should be sent to us at info@originbakery.com.

We use many different flours instead of wheat flour, and you can read all about it on the Ingredients section of our website!

Our priority is making delicious and safe gluten-free food, but we do have many allergen friendly options for those of you who have other food sensitivities. Head to our store and sort by the different allergy friendly options we have to see what is available!

We spend a lot of time carefully sourcing ingredients to make sure they are safe. We prefer to source ingredients that are labelled/certified gluten-free; however, it isn't always possible to order ingredients that are certified. In these cases, we have a thorough conversation with the distributor and/or supplier/farmer about the conditions surrounding the growing, harvesting, processing, and packaging stages of the ingredient to make sure gluten contamination is not a risk. We also ask for allergen statements from the suppliers. If we do need to substitute an ingredient with short notice, we have gluten testing strips on site.

We do not offer custom baking or ingredient replacement for our standard products.

We can offer custom decoration on cakes, such as gum paste or buttercream flowers, chocolate scrolling, painting/imagery, fondant masking, etc. Pricing and order lead time will depend on design requirements, and this will be established after a customer consultation with the general manager and kitchen manager.

If you live in Victoria, we can recommend these local custom chefs:
Laura Moore, Good For You Gourmet

Please let us know if you know of any other local chefs we could add to this list!

*As we adjust to reopening during this current pandemic situation, we may not be able to accommodate custom requests. Email us to inquire: info@originbakery.com