Citizen Petition to FDA Seeks to Require Gluten Labeling on All Packaged Food in U.S.

Celiac.com 04/04/2024 - Jon and Lexi Bari, co-founders of Celiac Journey, have penned an open letter to the editors of the Food and Drug Law Journal about their FDA citizen petition to require the labeling of gluten on all packaged foods. Here's the rundown. 

In a heartfelt plea for greater safety and transparency in the food industry, Jon and Lexi Bari, co-founders of Celiac Journey, have taken a significant step towards advocating for the rights of individuals living with Celiac Disease. Their impassioned open letter, featured in the Food and Drug Law Journal, sheds light on their FDA citizen petition aimed at ensuring the labeling of gluten on all packaged foods sold in the United States.

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Celiac Disease, a severe autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, poses significant challenges to those afflicted and their families. For the Bari family, the journey began in 2018 when their five-year-old son, Jax, was diagnosed with this life-altering condition. The sudden realization of the dietary restrictions and safety concerns associated with Celiac Disease thrust the Baris into a world of uncertainty and fear.

Despite the enactment of the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA), significant gaps remain in the labeling requirements for gluten-containing grains such as barley, rye, and oats. This discrepancy exposes millions of Americans, including Jax, to the constant risk of accidental gluten ingestion due to incomplete and confusing food labels.

The Baris' petition to the FDA aims to rectify this critical issue by advocating for the mandatory labeling of gluten on all packaged foods, aligning with international standards and the recommendations of leading health authorities. Their efforts have garnered support from esteemed institutions and organizations, further underscoring the urgency of their cause.

With one crumb of gluten posing a serious threat to Jax's health and well-being, the Baris emphasize the imperative of preventive measures over remediation. Their courageous advocacy serves as a beacon of hope for the 3.3 million Americans living with Celiac Disease, urging policymakers to prioritize consumer safety and quality of life.

As the Baris eloquently state, until a cure for Celiac Disease is found, the simple act of requiring gluten labeling has the potential to make a profound difference in the lives of those affected. In the spirit of compassion and accountability, they call upon health leaders to heed their plea and enact meaningful change for the Celiac community.

In the pursuit of a safer, more inclusive food landscape, the Baris' citizen petition stands as a testament to the power of advocacy and the unwavering resilience of those impacted by Celiac Disease.

Read more at FDLI.org