Eshbal Acquires Gluten Free Nation

Eshbal Functional Food Inc. expands its gluten-free product portfolio with the acquisition of Houston-based Gluten Free Nation

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Eshbal Functional Food Inc., a Canadian food-tech company, has acquired the business of Gluten Free Nation, a Houston-based producer of premium gluten-free baked goods. The acquisition was made through Eshbal USA Inc. for a total consideration of $736,424.58, including $236,424.58 in cash and $500,000 paid through the issuance of 3,846,154 common shares of Eshbal. The deal also includes potential milestone payments based on Eshbal USA achieving certain revenue targets from the sales of GFN products in 2026 and 2027.

Why it matters

The acquisition of Gluten Free Nation aligns with Eshbal's strategy to consolidate companies in the artisanal, gluten-free market and expand its portfolio of "Better for You" products. The gluten-free food market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of gluten-related health issues and the demand for healthier, allergen-free options.

The details

Founded by Randi Markowitz, known as The Gluten Free Guru, Gluten Free Nation is dedicated to delivering exceptional taste, texture, and quality for the gluten-free community. The company offers a wide range of breads, rolls, muffins, and sweet baked goods, available nationwide through retail, foodservice, and e-commerce channels. The acquisition will allow Eshbal to leverage GFN's brand recognition, distribution network, and product expertise to further expand its presence in the gluten-free market.

  • The acquisition was announced on February 6, 2026.
  • The transaction is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.

The players

Eshbal Functional Food Inc.

A Canadian food-tech company with over 300 SKUs in the gluten-free and "Better for You" categories. Eshbal generated more than $11 million in revenue in 2024 and is seeking to consolidate companies in the artisanal, gluten-free market.

Gluten Free Nation

A Houston-based producer of premium gluten-free baked goods, founded by Randi Markowitz, known as The Gluten Free Guru. Gluten Free Nation is dedicated to creating safe, certified gluten-free products that never compromise on flavor.

Eshbal USA Inc.

A subsidiary of Eshbal Functional Food Inc. that will acquire the assets of Gluten Free Nation as part of the transaction.

Randi Markowitz

The founder of Gluten Free Nation, known as The Gluten Free Guru.

Starcall Broadcasting LLC

The company doing business as Gluten Free Nation, which is selling the assets of the business to Eshbal USA Inc.

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What’s next

The transaction is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange. Once approved, Eshbal USA will begin integrating Gluten Free Nation's operations and product portfolio into its business.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Gluten Free Nation strengthens Eshbal's position in the growing gluten-free food market, allowing the company to leverage GFN's brand recognition, distribution network, and product expertise to further expand its presence in this segment and continue its growth trajectory.