I just started researching labeling laws on gluten-free products in the U.S. because I wish to sell them on my new website, www.CarlasCooking.com. (UPDATE: now at http://glutenfreerecipebox.com.) I was very surprised to find out that gluten-free products may contain small amounts of gluten. I have heard of many people on a gluten-free diet complaining of symptoms. Some begin removing other food items from their diets, which is not be a bad idea, but the above could explain why they are still experiencing symptoms.
United States
In 2006 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) established labeling laws for common food allergens: milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nuts, fish, and crustacean shellfish.
In 2007 the FDA proposed labeling laws for gluten-free products. Their proposal was to limit gluten-free products to include no more than 20mg per kg, 20ppm (20 parts per million). Manufacturers have until 2012 to abide by these standards. For now the standards are voluntary.
What people with Celiac Disease, a gluten intolerance or other allergies should look for are items such as ‘may contain’, ‘shared equipment’ and ‘within plant’. Some manufacturers are following the guidelines in the “Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology” and listing these warnings; others may not.
Australia
You will find that the gluten labeling laws in Australia are much more stringent, allowing only 0.0005 (5 parts per million). They even have the equipment to test to this low degree.
Europe
Europe on the other hand had allowed 200 ppm since 1983, but in 2008 changed the allowance to 20 ppm.
My plan
It is my hope to find a manufacturer that will guarantee 100% gluten-free products. There is no reason to take a chance on anything less!
I will keep you all apprised of my research.
SOURCE: http://blogza.in.th/2010/03/13/gluten-free-labelling-laws-are-strict-in-america-20-ppm-but-are-not-the-most-strict-in-the-world-see-why-australia-is-choosing-limits-much-less/
The source above links to 3 original sources.
UPDATE: Website above no longer exists.
