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Statement on 'Wheat Free' and 'Gluten Free' Products
Gluten is an insoluble protein found in wheat (including different varieties such as spelt and kamut), rye, barley, and cross-bred hybrids, such as triticale, which is a cross between wheat and rye. It is estimated that more than 2 million people in the U.S. have Celiac disease, a disorder in which the lining of the small intestine is damaged in response to ingestion of gluten. Millions more have varying levels of gluten sensitivity or wheat intolerances, also known as wheat allergies, etc.
As of this date there is no specific U.S. food regulation for labeling of gluten free foods. Current industry standards are below 20 parts per million equals gluten free. Those who require a wheat free or gluten free diet face challenges because wheat and wheat derivatives are so prevalent.
What Eden Foods means by 'Wheat Free' is that there are no wheat or wheat derivatives in the ingredients, though these foods may contain gluten.
What Eden Foods means by 'Gluten Free' is:
- Eden's full ingredient disclosure, and requirement of such from all secondary suppliers assures that there are no ingredients that contain, nor are derived from wheat or any other gluten-containing grain.
- Eden Foods is highly proactive toward food safety, sanitation, and the prevention of allergen cross contamination as exemplified by our ongoing participation with food safety programs such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis at Critical Control Point) and AIB International audits.
- Eden routinely tests for gluten in foods that are listed as 'gluten free'. Our gluten free confidence is not solely based on testing, but also on good manufacturing practices and meticulous handling.
- Occasionally Eden Foods changes ingredients or suppliers and this may affect the 'Wheat Free' or 'Gluten Free' status of our products. If this should occur we immediately update our "Wheat Free and Gluten Free List" to reflect any change.
- While extremely unlikely, it is conceivable that EDEN products listed as 'gluten free' could become affected with miniscule amounts of gluten. Please use common sense depending upon your level of sensitivity and feel free to contact us about specific Eden foods.
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