Senators Call For Regulation of Gluten-Free Foods

Gluten-free products have experienced dramatic growth in the past few years. Much of the early popularity stemmed from doctors beginning to diagnose celiac disease, an illness that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents the absorption of nutrients in the body. Gluten is the protein that gives dough its elastic quality. It's found in wheat, barley, and rye and causes extreme symptoms in those with celiac disease.

Beyond celiac patients, gluten is sometimes associated with autism, weight gain, and other gastrointestinal issues. According to Packaged Facts and seen on Eating Well, "1,182 new gluten-free foods and beverages were introduced in 2008, continuing an average 33 percent annual increase since 2004."

With the market growing in such a dramatic fashion, Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) are calling for a universal labeling system to ensure that gluten-free products are as gluten-free as the label claims.

According to Food Safety News:

In 2004, Congress passed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act, part of which mandated that FDA issue proposed rules on gluten-free labeling within two years. In 2007, FDA published its proposed rule, but has neither proposed nor passed a final rule since that time.

"The regulatory uncertainty surrounding FDA's inaction has led to a proliferation of "gluten free" standards and labels provided by 3rd party groups," said a letter the two Senators wrote to the FDA. "This creates confusion for consumers, and hesitancy amongst producers on what their requirements will be."

The Senators are particularly concerned with celiac sufferers that can experience extreme symptoms if unknowingly ingesting gluten. Because nutrients aren't absorbed into the system, it can cause malnourishment, which can damage vital internal organs, the nervous system, and the brain.

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