On January 23, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced new actions aimed at improving how a gluten ingredient is disclosed on food labels. The update, released on January 23, 2026, reflects growing concern that current ingredient statements do not always provide enough clarity for consumers who need to avoid gluten for medical or dietary reasons.
The FDA’s move signals a renewed focus on food labeling compliance, particularly for packaged foods that contain ingredients derived from wheat, barley, or rye. While gluten itself is not classified as a major allergen under U.S. law, the agency acknowledged that unclear ingredient descriptions can make it difficult for consumers to identify gluten sources accurately.
What the FDA Announced
In its official announcement, the FDA outlined steps to strengthen expectations around gluten ingredient disclosure, with the goal of improving label transparency and consumer understanding.
According to the FDA’s press release on improving gluten ingredient disclosure in foods, the agency is encouraging clearer identification of gluten-containing ingredients, especially when the source of gluten is not obvious from the ingredient name alone.
The FDA emphasized that ingredient lists should allow consumers to easily determine whether a product contains gluten. This includes ingredients that are derived from gluten-containing grains but may not explicitly reference wheat, barley, or rye in their common names.
Why Gluten Ingredient Disclosure Is Under Scrutiny
Gluten avoidance is not a niche concern. Millions of consumers rely on food labels to manage celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or other health conditions. When a gluten ingredient is hidden behind technical or unfamiliar terminology, it increases the risk of accidental exposure.
The FDA noted that while allergen labeling requirements exist, they do not always address gluten clearly. As a result, some products may technically comply with regulations while still creating confusion for consumers. This gap is what the agency is now working to address through clearer expectations and guidance.
Implications for Food Labeling Compliance
For food manufacturers and brand owners, the update serves as a reminder that food labeling compliance goes beyond checking regulatory boxes. Labels must also be understandable to the people who rely on them.
Companies producing packaged foods should review their ingredient statements carefully, particularly when formulations include grain derivatives, flavorings, or processing aids that introduce gluten. Even when products are not marketed as gluten free, unclear disclosure of a gluten ingredient can raise compliance concerns or trigger consumer complaints.
From a packaged food compliance standpoint, the FDA’s announcement reinforces the importance of regular label reviews and regulatory oversight, especially as guidance continues to evolve.
What Food Businesses Should Do Now
Although the FDA has not introduced a new rule at this stage, the announcement raises expectations around label clarity. Food businesses should take proactive steps to reduce risk and stay aligned with FDA direction.
- Review ingredient lists to ensure gluten-containing ingredients are clearly identifiable
- Confirm that labeling supports both regulatory requirements and consumer understanding
- Document internal compliance reviews to demonstrate due diligence
These actions can help prevent issues before they escalate and support long-term compliance strategies.
Key Takeaways
- The FDA announced new steps on January 23, 2026 to improve gluten ingredient disclosure
- Clearer labeling supports consumer safety and food labeling compliance
- Packaged food compliance now requires greater attention to ingredient transparency
- Proactive label reviews can reduce regulatory and reputational risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gluten now treated as a required allergen on U.S. food labels?
No. Gluten is not classified as a major food allergen under U.S. law, and there has been no change to the list of required allergens at this time. However, the FDA has made it clear that it expects clearer disclosure when ingredients contain or introduce gluten, particularly in cases where the source of gluten may not be obvious to consumers reading the label.
Does this update apply only to products labeled as gluten free?
No. The FDA’s focus is not limited to products making gluten free claims. The update applies more broadly to packaged foods and how a gluten ingredient is disclosed in ingredient lists, regardless of how the product is marketed or positioned.
Could unclear gluten disclosure lead to compliance issues?
Yes. Labels that confuse or mislead consumers may raise food labeling compliance concerns, especially as FDA expectations continue to evolve. Inconsistent or unclear ingredient disclosures can also increase the risk of consumer complaints or regulatory scrutiny.
Can clearer disclosure benefit food manufacturers?
Yes. Clear and transparent labeling can help reduce compliance risk, support consumer trust, and demonstrate a company’s commitment to responsible packaged food compliance practices.
Conclusion
The FDA’s latest announcement reflects a broader push toward clearer, more consumer-focused food labels. For food companies, now is the time to reassess how a gluten ingredient is disclosed and whether current labels align with evolving FDA expectations.
If you need support reviewing labels or navigating FDA requirements, Quality Smart Solutions provides regulatory guidance tailored to food manufacturers. Feel free to contact us to discuss your compliance needs.
We also offer dedicated support through our FDA food compliance solutions to help you stay aligned with U.S. regulations and reduce risk as requirements continue to evolve.
