FDA sets 'gluten-free' labeling standards

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration set a final standard on Friday to clearly define what the term "gluten-free" means on food labels. The new regulation is targeted to help the estimated 3 million Americans who have celiac disease, a chronic inflammatory auto-immune disorder that can affect the lining of the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Gluten is a protein composite found in wheat, rye, barley and crossbreeds of these grassy grains. “Adherence to a gluten-free diet is the key to treating celiac disease, which can be very disruptive to everyday life,” said FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, in the release. “The FDA’s new ‘gluten-free’ definition will help people with this condition make food choices with confidence and allow them to better manage their health." http://eatocracy.cnn.com/2013/08/02/fda-sets-gluten-free-labeling-standards/