The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to define the term "gluten-free" for voluntary use in the labeling of foods. Public comment period is complete. The regulation is scheduled to be published by August 2008.

Official CSA Comments Submitted to FDA

All comments and hearings pertaining to the FDA Docket 2005N-0279 RIN 0910-ZA26 are public.

GLUTEN LABELING

"Not later than two years [2006]after the date of enactment, [August 2, 2004] the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with appropriate experts and stakeholders, shall issue a proposed rule to define, and permit use of, the term 'gluten-free' on the labeling of foods. Not later than four years [August 2, 2008] after the date of enactment, the Secretary shall issue a rule to define, and permit use of, 'gluten-free' on the labeling of foods." Section 206 of Title II Public Law 108-282

History

2007

Proposed Regulation           Gluten-free Labeling  21 CFR Part 101 I

Food and Drug Administration DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

“Questions and Answers" on the Gluten-Free Labeling Proposed Rule

prepared by FDA

2004

Legislation on Gluten-free Labeling:           Title II Public Law 108-282

The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004, became law on August 2, 2004 with President George W. Bush’s signature.  The following is a summary of the provisions related to Voluntary food labeling using the term “gluten-free”.

Title II Public Law 108-282

CSA efforts for Gluten-Free Labeling since 1990