Understanding Gluten-Free Labeling and Certification 🌾

Hey there, gluten-free newbie! With lots of gluten-free products popping up in stores and restaurants, it’s essential to know what the words “gluten-free” on labels and certifications mean. In this blog post, we’ll explain everything there’s to know about gluten-free labeling, so you can confidently choose products that are safe for you to eat.

What is Gluten? 🍞

Gluten is a combination of proteins found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, consuming gluten can cause digestive upset, inflammation, and other health issues.

What Does Gluten-Free Mean? 🚫🌾

Gluten-free means that a food, drink, or supplement does not contain gluten or has been filtered or processed to remove gluten. Gluten-free products are essential for individuals with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or gluten sensitivity.

Understanding Gluten-Free Labels 🏷️

When you see a product labeled as “gluten-free,” it means that the product complies with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) gluten-free labeling requirements. Foods labeled gluten-free must contain less than 20 parts per million (PPM) of gluten.

Foods that are naturally gluten-free also can use the label “gluten-free.” However, brands should put a statement on the label explaining that the food is inherently gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Certification Programs 🔍

Various gluten-free certification programs exist that brands can use to certify their products as gluten-free. These certifications offer consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance the assurance that a product is safe to consume.

Here are a few of the most popular gluten-free certification programs:

• Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO): The GFCO label requires products to contain less than 10 PPM of gluten.
• Beyond Celiac Certified Gluten-Free: This certification requires products to contain less than 5 PPM of gluten.
• Canadian Celiac Association Gluten-Free Certification Program: Products with this certification require the use of ingredients that don’t contain gluten, or that have a gluten level below 20 PPM.
• NSF International Gluten-Free Certification Program: The NSF label requires products to contain less than 20 PPM of gluten.

Gluten-Free Products That Don’t Have a Label 🚫🏷️

Products such as fresh produce, meat, poultry, and fish are naturally gluten-free. However, certain products such as spices, seasonings, and prepared sauces can contain gluten. Look for certified gluten-free options or contact the manufacturer to confirm whether the product is safe for you to consume.

Conclusion 🎉

Understanding gluten-free labels and certifications can help you make informed choices and keep you safe when consuming gluten-free products. Make sure always to check the labels or look for certified gluten-free products to ensure your safety and good health.

🌟 Pro Tip: If you’re new to gluten-free living, look for a registered dietitian to help you develop a healthy gluten-free diet that meets your nutritional needs.