FDA Relaxes Food Labeling Rules During Covid-19 Pandemic

This is bad news as it regards gluten cross-reactors.

While we have all needed to make adjustments, sometimes radical ones, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the relaxation of food labeling requirements is a serious concern for those with food allergies, dietary restrictions, and/or dietary preferences.  Even if a food manufacturer substitutes one gluten-free ingredient for another, without accurate labeling, people with multiple food allergies and/or sensitivities could unknowingly consume a harmful ingredient and end up having a serious reaction.  A simple swap from potato to corn starch or vice versa could send someone to the hospital with anaphylaxis.  High fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners are gluten-free, but that does not mean that people want either in their food.  And what happens if the FDA decides to "temporarily" increase the threshold for gluten ppm?  Why not?  That would be just as ludicrous as allowing food manufacturers to not list their ingredients accurately. 

The bigger problem is that without accurate labeling of all packaged foods, consumers will not know which products were produced using the labeled ingredients vs. the temporarily permitted "substitute" ingredients, so the effects of this "temporary" relaxation of the rules could have ramifications into the next year depending on the shelf life of the food product in question.  Of course, many processed foods are not healthy, but those of us who are vegan, vegetarian, non-GMO, nut-free, peanut-free, dairy-free, living with Celiac or other autoimmune diseases, or even simply committed to dietary choices for environmental health or religious reasons have a right to know EXACTLY what we are feeding our bodies with every bite. 

Label it and label it accurately, every time, or don't sell it.  For some of us, our life or our child's life may depend on it.

After reading the information in our reference link you will notice that swapping potato starch with corn starch would not be allowed, as corn is included in the top 8 allergens that can’t be added without proper labeling. However, is isn’t clear if this could happen with some other allergens, so you have a right to be concerned.