Keep asking… keep calling… keep demanding! Consumer interest in gluten-free OTC supplements, pain relievers, antacids, etc. is on the rise – and companies are actually listening. December has seen at least two companies (Perrigo and Vitamer Labs) announce new gluten-free labeling of products.
Controversy exists due to the FDA not having issued definitive gluten-free guidelines, but the simple fact is this: demand is growing, companies are listening, products are following. This is definite progress! In a country where an estimated 1 in 7 people suffer from some level of gluten intolerance, and 3 million from celiac disease, it is not a moment too soon.
“Perrigo Company Launches Labeling Initiative to Identify Gluten-free Products”, published December 7, 2009: www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/perrigo-company-launches-labeling-initiative-to-identify-gluten-free-products-78677092.
“Critics question value of Perrigo’s new ‘gluten free’ claim on drugs”, published on December 7, 2009: www.mlive.com/business/west-michigan/index.ssf/2009/12/critics_question_value_of_perr.
“Vitamer Starts ‘Double Verified Gluten Free’ Program”, published December 9, 2009: www.naturalproductsmarketplace.com/news/2009/12/vitamer-starts-double-verified-gluten-free.