Gluten labelling guide launched
A guide to support manufacturers on the labelling of food products containing gluten has been launched by the Food & Drink Federation (FDF).
The FDF has launched the best practice guide to help manufacturers adhere to the Food Information to Consumers (FIC) regulation and to provide consumers with clear and consistent allergens labelling. The FIC regulation brought changes to the way allergen information is provided and emphasised on pre-packaged foods.
Gluten Labelling Best Practice: How to label pre-packaged foods which include cereals containing gluten has been developed with support from Coeliac UK, Anaphylaxis Campaign and the British Retail Consortium. This best practice has been produced to illustrate examples of the usual as well as some of the more challenging labelling situations of gluten containing foods, and it also covers claims for gluten-free foods. Special consideration is also given to oats and wheat.
Director of regulation, science & health at the FDF, Barbara Gallani, says, “As consumers are increasingly seeking clear information about various allergenic ingredients within the foods they purchase, it is important that food manufacturers provide labels that are legally compliant and make it easier for consumers to find and understand allergen information so they can make safer food choices. By following a best practice approach, we hope that this new guide will help manufacturers of all sizes make informed labelling decisions with regard to cereals containing gluten.”
