Celiac Safety Act of 2026 (H.R. 9048)

Summary

Requires food labels to clearly list gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, and barley as major allergens to protect people with Celiac disease.

What problem does this solve?

Current food labels only require listing wheat as an allergen, not other grains with gluten like rye and barley, which can harm people with Celiac disease. This bill makes food safer by requiring all gluten-containing grains to be clearly labeled as major allergens on packaging.

What does this bill do?

Adds gluten-containing grains as a major allergen

Amends federal law to include 'gluten-containing grain' in the official list of major food allergens that must be declared on food labels.

Defines gluten-containing grains

Specifies that 'gluten-containing grain' includes wheat, rye, barley, and their crossbred hybrids like triticale.

Sets an effective date for new labels

Requires the new labeling rules to apply to all food introduced into interstate commerce 18 months after the date the act is passed.

Who does this affect?

People with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
Food manufacturers

What is the real world impact?

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Improves food safety for people with Celiac disease

Makes it easier and safer for people with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to identify harmful ingredients by requiring clear labels for all gluten-containing grains, not just wheat.

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Increases costs for food producers

Forces food companies to update their labels and possibly change their recipes or manufacturing processes. These new costs could be passed on to customers through higher prices.

When does this start?

The new labeling requirements will take effect for food sold 18 months after this bill becomes law.