Government of Canada makes it easier for Canadians to choose gluten-free foods

Government of Canada makes it easier for Canadians to choose gluten-free foods
New labelling will allow “gluten-free” claims for specially produced oats

November 14, 2014 – Saskatoon, SK

Today, on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Health, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar Kelly Block announced Health Canada’s intent to allow the use of “gluten-free” claims on specially produced oats and foods containing these oats when sold in Canada.

Health Canada will consult with the public and stakeholders for a 75-day period before the Minister issues a final Marketing Authorization to allow this claim. Canadians are encouraged to provide comments on this Notice before January 27, 2015.

Grains such as wheat, rye and barley contain gluten and are widely used in the production of many foods. People with celiac disease must avoid eating gluten protein found in these grains to manage this disease and prevent serious health problems.

This proposed change is based on an extensive review of scientific literature and evidence, which shows that most people with celiac disease can safely eat foods made from specially produced oats that contain levels not exceeding 20 parts per million of gluten from wheat, rye, barley or their hybridized strains. Health Canada’s decision was also informed by market intelligence and information on consumer buying habits compiled by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).

Today’s announcement is another step the Government of Canada is taking to improve the way food is labelled so that consumers have the information they need to make healthy and safe food choices.

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