Living with Celiac Disease
Food Labeling
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) was passed by Congress on July 20, 2004 and was signed into law by the President on August 2, 2004.
The law, which took effect January 1, 2006, requires foods containing milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, fish, soy, and wheat, to declare the allergen in plain English on the ingredient list or by:
- the word “Contains” followed by the name of the major food allergen (milk, wheat, or eggs for example); or
- a parenthetical statement in the list of ingredients, e.g., “albumin egg”.
The law also requires the FDA to develop and finalize rules for the use of the term ‘gluten-free’ on product labels by August 2008.
FALCPA Fact Sheet
Details about the new labeling law prepared by the ACDA.
FDA Information About FALCPA for Consumers — Updated July 18, 2006
Questions and answers for consumers relating to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act.
FDA Complaint Coordinators
If you believe that a product may be mislabeled or have another complaint regarding the manufacture of a food product regulated by the FDA, contact the FDA complaint coordinator in your area.
Prescription Drugs and Pharmaceuticals
FALCPA does cover dietary supplements and vitamins. It does not, however, cover prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications. Individuals are encouraged to verify the ingredients on these medications by contacting the drug manufacturer, or through your pharmacist.
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