How to Spot Reliable Gluten Free Products and Why They Matter

Whether you are gluten intolerant, allergic to gluten, or are diagnosed with celiac disease, it is critical to learn how to spot reliable gluten free products and know why they matter. For many Americans, simply seeing the words “gluten free” on product packaging may be enough to convince them that the product contains no gluten. Spoiler alert…without proper verification and certification on the packaging, a product may still contain gluten.

This means that it is important to know what constitutes a reliable gluten free product and why it should matter to you.

Gluten and U.S. Food Labeling Laws

On their website, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said that foods inherently free of gluten such as vegetables, fruits, and eggs can be labeled gluten-free as long as “any gluten that came in contact with the food is less than 20 ppm.”

The organization also defines manufacturers to label a food gluten-free if it does not contain the following:

• Barley, rye, wheat or cross breeds of these grains
• Ingredients derived from these grains that have not been processed to remove gluten
• Ingredients derived from these grains that have been processed to remove gluten, if it results in the product containing 20 or more ppm.

However, it is important to note that some people are incredibly sensitive to gluten, and even amounts under the FDA’s 20 ppm, could still possibly result in a reaction in an individual with gluten allergies, gluten intolerance, or celiac disease. And this may cause confusion among people living with or caring for individuals who cannot safely ingest gluten.

Consumers are also strongly encouraged to look for warning statements on products that could say something to the effect of “this product may contain wheat” or “processed on equipment that also processes wheat.”  Statements like these may be a red flag that the product could indeed contain gluten. For instance, while oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often processed in facilities that also produce wheat products, and this cross contamination can cause serious issues in those with celiac disease.

Ingredients and manufacturing practices can change frequently. Just because a product was safe a few months ago, does not necessarily mean it is still safe. Review product packaging and ingredients every single time you buy them to ensure that nothing has changed. This is the responsibility of the consumer.

How to Spot Reliable Gluten Free Products

As the number of people in the United States who are not able to ingest gluten either due to allergies, intolerance, or celiac disease keeps growing, there has been a movement of sorts for third parties to ensure that a product does indeed meet the FDA’s standards.

One such organization is the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). The goal of this entity is to ensure that products are indeed gluten-free. But how do they do this? The GFCO works directly with manufacturers to help them improve their processes to achieve certification. Consumers who see the GFCO logo on a product may feel more comfortable in knowing that the product has been tested to ensure it meets quality control standards.

We don’t just want customers to take us at our word, which is why our products are gluten free certified. As a gluten-free business, our products proudly display the GFCO logo. We understand our customers are counting on us to provide them with what we say we will.

Why It Matters If a Product Is Certified Gluten Free

In a day and age in which there are food recalls all the time for an ingredient that inadvertently made its way into a product, having a third-party gluten-free certification is more important than ever.

Seeing the GFCO logo on a product can do wonders to ease those following a strict gluten-free diet. This important labeling offers assurance that the food inside will not make them sick. This is important all of the time, but especially when traveling or away from home.

Since gluten-free food tends to cost more across the board, seeing that a food is certified gluten-free can make you feel a little better about the money you are spending on it.

What Certified Gluten Free Products We Offer

We know gluten-free foods, and we know that baked goods are some of the hardest types of foods to find that are still delicious. We take pride in creating recipes for delicious items that you can order online from us or buy at participating grocery stores. From GFCO cookies to muffins to hot dog buns, these products make it easy to live gluten free and not feel like you are missing out on anything.

Knowing how to spot reliable gluten free products and knowing why they matter is an essential part of living the gluten-free life successfully. When eating food can cause you to be sick, it is important to stay aware of what you are eating. In our opinion, it is well worth it to go the extra mile to make sure the products you enjoy are certified gluten free. Life is short, eat the gluten-free cookies!