Rhonda Kane, MS, RD, Consumer Safety Officer at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), provided us with the following status report on FDA’s gluten-free food labeling rulemaking:

The headquarters of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seen in Silver Spring, Maryland.

“FDA published a proposed rule to define the food labeling term “gluten-free” on January 23, 2007, which had a 90-day public comment period that closed on April 23, 2007.  As discussed on page 2803 of the proposed rule (posted under the subheading “Gluten-Free”), FDA committed to conducting a safety assessment on gluten exposure in individuals with celiac disease.  FDA conducted this safety assessment in accordance with the data quality criteria discussed in Read More »

Gluten-free residents can add another restaurant to the growing list that will accommodate their needs – Applebee’s.  Applebee’s joins a host of many other restaurants that are now offering a list of menu items that don’t contain gluten.  As noted, this list is subject to change, so make sure to check back frequently.  

As with any restaurant, there is always a risk of cross-contamination.  To help minimize the risk, ask to speak with the manager on duty.  Be sure to ask how the menu item is prepared and if it is cooked on surfaces or Read More »