
In 1994 I was diagnosed with celiac disease, which led me to create Celiac.com in 1995. I created this site for a single purpose: To help as many people as possible with celiac disease get diagnosed so they can begin to live happy, healthy gluten-free lives. Celiac.com was the first site on the Internet dedicated solely to celiac disease, and since then it has become an invaluable resource to people worldwide who seek information about celiac disease and the gluten-free diet.
In 1998 I created The Gluten-Free Mall, Your Special Diet Superstore! which was also another Internet first—it was the first gluten-free food site to offer a shopping cart-style interface, and the ability for people to order gluten-free products manufactured by many different companies at a single Web site.
I am also co-author of the book Cereal Killers, and founder and publisher of Journal of Gluten Sensitivity.
I wish to thank the Committee Chairman Senator Judd Gregg, Ranking Member Senator Edward Kennedy and the rest of the Committee members for taking these actions, Dr. McClellan said, and I look forward to continuing to work with the members of both houses of Congress toward the enactment of these bills.
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act will provide improved food labeling to better inform consumers who suffer from food allergies.
Having the endorsement of the FDA will be key as we look ahead to floor action by the full Senate in early 2004.
Andrea Levario
Co-Chair, American Celiac Task Force