New Nutrition Label Requirements - What do we think?

[CarolM]

What do you think of the new requirements?  I'm finding that it cuts down some of my time spent inspecting the label, since if it states "Wheat" in the allergen list, I put it right back.  BUT, the new law requires a manufacturer to list wheat, not gluten.  Therefore, a careful look at the ingredient list is still necessary.  So, it seems the new labels don't point the way to safe product, but help you spot unsafe ones faster.

Though the law has only been in effect for a short while, many manufacturers are already in compliance.  Does anyone have any thoughts or stories to share?

Overall, I'm pleased to see some headway in getting allergens listed clearly on labels.

C.

[the sensible celiac]

So, it seems the new labels don't point the way to safe product, but help you spot unsafe ones faster.

That really is it in a nutshell. I have not had any surprises yet with the new labels yet, but when I see them I read the allergens part first.

[GwenRN]

I have actually seen a few products (some of them Campbell's, if I recall) that list gluten under the allergens as well.

I realize this is on a voluntary basis, but perhaps we should provide some positive feedback to encourage companies to continue this practice.

I am also noting a small "gluten free" on the occasional product, but I agree... most of the new labels seem to make it easier to rule out products rather than rule them in.

[CarolM]

... perhaps we should provide some positive feedback to encourage companies to continue this practice.

That's a good idea.

C.

[Steve S]

I agree, it is a good idea to thank the companies that label products well, along with thanking the restaurants that offer a GF menu.  I have emailed PF Changs and Outback to thank them.  My Mom (who is retired, of course) emails everyone (and their corporate brother) to thank them and ask them questions.  She gets amazingly good response from some pretty large companies and they often say thanks for taking the time to write.

Along the lines of writing, I hope everyone sent a response to the FDA recently when they were seeking input to define the term "gluten free."  I sent in a response and I know some of the members of this CSA chapter did also.  I'm hoping that we got enough comments from the little guy to balance out whatever comments were submitted by the food industry, because I'm sure they submitted theirs.

Steve