Dive Brief:
- The Trump administration is considering whether food packaging should indicate if products contain gluten, as part of the newly released “Make America Healthy Again” strategy report.
- The FDA may recommend that food packaging disclose ingredients that affect certain health conditions, such as gluten for individuals with Celiac disease, and other known food allergens.
- While the report emphasizes voluntary actions and consumer education on topics like ultraprocessed foods and artificial dyes, the proposal for gluten labeling stands out as a potential regulation to improve children’s health.
Dive Insight:
Approximately 2 million Americans suffer from Celiac disease, which is triggered by gluten-containing foods like bread and pasta. While some companies voluntarily label their products as gluten-free, there is currently no requirement to disclose the presence of gluten.
Countries like New Zealand and Australia mandate gluten disclosure in food products, unlike the U.S. where companies only need to disclose major allergens. The Trump administration’s proposal could lead to costly packaging changes and potentially pave the way for more ingredient disclosure requirements.
Although the “Make America Healthy Again” report focuses on research and collaboration rather than regulation, it hints at potential rules such as gluten labeling and restrictions on marketing unhealthy foods to children.
With 128 strategies outlined in the report, the FDA is also working on defining ultraprocessed foods and streamlining ingredient approval processes. However, critics warn that the emphasis on deregulation and voluntary actions may hinder public health efforts.