Gluten-Free Labelling Set to Change

Gluten-Free Labelling Set to Change

Gluten-Free Labelling Set to Change Credit: Pixabay

Gluten-Free labelling set to change in Spain as it cannot be used as an advertising argument according to Aesan.

Gluten-free labelling which many consider to be extremely useful is set to change in Spain as the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (Aesan) and the Ministries of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs have changed the regulations.

The agencies clarified that gluten-free should only be used on packaging when naturally the food could contain gluten, but it has been removed. This is the way it works for other ingredients known to cause intolerances or allergies to people who are sensitive to them.

Many brands have taken to using the gluten-free label on products that naturally would not contain gluten, and this can be seen by some as an advertising ploy set to promote their food above other similar brands. Many people though find this labelling super speedy when shopping as they can quickly and easily shop for gluten-free products without having to read all the ingredients.

It was only a year ago that the Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) spoke out over supermarkets who are using gluten-free labels on products such as vegetables which obviously would not normally contain gluten.

A gluten-free diet for those who do not need it because of a medical condition is not advised and according to the Ministries of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs consumers should be aware that unless there is a medical reason, then a gluten-free diet gives no health benefits.

Aesan and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Ministry of Consumer Affairs have issued clarification on the gluten-free labelling and indicated that should be reserved for products where gluten has been specifically removed as reported La Vanguardia.

Alex
Written by

Alex Glenn

Originally from the UK, Alex is based in Almeria and is a web reporter for The Euro Weekly News covering international and Spanish national news. Got a news story you want to share? Then get in touch at editorial@euroweeklynews.com.

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