New Gig Gf Food Testing Program

[jenvan]

Below is an announcement I got from Clan Thompson newsletter. It is on the GIG's new gluten-free food testing program. It sounds like its going to be great. Only 2 companies have signed on so far so we can encourage others to join when we get the chance. Info is below:

1. GIG IMPLEMENTS AN INDEPENDENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR gluten-free FOODS

The Gluten Intolerance Group* has implemented a gluten free food certification

program. This new independent food processing inspection program will verify

that food products meet the highest standards for gluten-free ingredients and a

safe processing environment. Food products meeting these high standards will

receive our gluten-free certification mark, allowing gluten-free consumers to easily

identify foods that are free of gluten and possible cross-contamination from

gluten. The program will be known as The Gluten Free Certification Organization

(GFCO).

Key elements of the GFCO process include:

* Ingredients review, down to the original supplier

* Onsite inspections by experienced, trained independent (third party) Field

Inspection Agents

* Product and ingredient testing using scientifically AOAC approved testing

methods

* GFCO certification mark located on product packages for easy identification

First major food companies to adopt GFCO supervision and labeling:

Enjoy Life Foods and PureFit Nutrition Bar are the first food manufacturers to

join the GFCO supervision program. These pioneering companies will display the

gluten-free certification mark on their food products in the near future.

GFCO maintains a system of independent verification through plant visits to

assure that there have been no changes that might compromise its gluten-free

status. GFCO certification uses the highest standards for gluten-free

ingredients and safe processing environment, and cannot be altered or

compromised. The GFCO certification standards exceed the requirements of current

government laws and regulations. The voluntary participation of companies in

this program will ensure public confidence in the gluten-free status of their

products.

The GFCO was developed in cooperation with the Food Services, Inc., a subsidiary

of the Orthodox Union (the "OU"), the world's largest and oldest kosher

certification agency. The OU's nearly 500 field representatives, proficient in

modern food production techniques and chemical and biological processes, will

conduct plant inspections and product reviews for the GFCO. Like the Good

Housekeeping Seal of Approval, the logo, one of the world's best-known

trademarks, instills confidence in the purchaser that the product has passed

inspection and meets high quality standards. For more nformation visit:

Open Original Shared Link.

The Gluten-Free Certification Organization's (GFCO) mission is to provide an

independent service to supervise gluten-free food production according to a

consistent, defined, science-based standard, that is confirmed by field

inspections, in order to achieve heightened consumer confidence and safety.

GFCO is governed by an independent volunteer board that includes physicians,

food scientists and consumers. For more information visit:

Open Original Shared Link, or call 206-246-6652.

The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG)'s mission is to increase awareness by

providing accurate, up-to-date information, education and support for those with

gluten intolerance, celiac disease/dermatitis herpetiformis, their families,

health care professionals and the general public. GIG's volunteers, staff, and

Board are knowledgeable, and our materials and resources are credible. GIG's

Medical Advisory Board approves all education materials. For more information

visit: Open Original Shared Link.