What “gluten-free” on a U.S. food label means for a gift

A guest may ask for gluten-free food for many reasons. A gift giver does not need to diagnose the reason or bake a substitute recipe. The useful task is to understand the U.S. label and let the recipient choose what meets their needs.

Read the actual claim

For FDA-regulated packaged food in the United States, “gluten-free,” “free of gluten,” “without gluten,” and “no gluten” are voluntary claims governed by the same rule. FDA says qualifying food must have less than 20 parts per million of unavoidable gluten and meet ingredient restrictions for wheat, rye, barley, and related grains. A homemade note saying “gluten-free” is not a substitute for a manufacturer’s compliant label.

Sources: FDA: Gluten and Food Labeling · FDA: Questions and Answers on Gluten-Free Food Labeling

Build a gift the recipient can inspect

Ask whether the person wants food, which brands they trust, and whether other ingredients matter. Keep each commercially packaged item sealed with its original ingredient and storage label. A nonfood gift or a card to a preferred retailer may be easier when you cannot verify a packaged food.

Leave treatment and recipes to qualified sources

A packaged-food label cannot treat celiac disease, food allergy, or another condition. Do not promise that a gift will make someone feel healthier. If the recipient has a medically necessary diet, follow their own instructions and choose sealed foods they can inspect. If you cook for them, use a recipe they have accepted and ask how they want ingredients and preparation handled.

Sources: FDA: Gluten and Food Labeling