Proposal seeks to allow continued gluten-free claims on alcohol products

Gluten-free claims will no longer be permitted on alcohol products once the new nutrition and health claims standard becomes mandatory in January 2016. However, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has put forward a proposal that seeks to ensure that gluten-free claims can still be used on alcohol products.

“FSANZ developed this proposal in response to concerns raised by manufacturers of gluten-free products and coeliac organisations,” said FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon.

“We recognise that it’s important for consumers with coeliac disease to have access to labelling that allows them to avoid gluten. The proposal will affect products with more than 1.15% alcohol by volume, including some soy sauces and essences.

“FSANZ welcomes comments from government agencies, public health professionals, industry and the community on this application.”

The closing date for submissions on the proposal is 24 December 2014.

More information about Proposal 1035 - Gluten claims on alcohol is available here.