What is Gluten and how can i2 FAST support your testing

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease which is life-long and triggered by consuming gluten. Accidental consumption can cause a range of symptoms from mouth ulcers to stomach cramps and anaemia. The only option for affected individuals is to avoid gluten in their diet, however due to the vast uses of gluten-containing ingredients in product manufacturing this can be easier said than done. Many aim for products specifically labelled ‘gluten free’ to give them reassurances that an adverse reaction will not occur.

European regulation (Regulation (EU) No 828/2014) covers the use of the term ‘gluten free’ and is enshrined into UK law. If you intend to label your products as ‘gluten free’, they must contain 20 parts-per-million (ppm) or less of gluten.

But what is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein comprised of glutenins and gliadins which is found in wheat. Comparable proteins to gliadin are also found in rye (Secalin) and barley (Hordein) and all three can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

i2 FAST’s Allergens and gluten testing laboratories are able to test your products for the presence of gluten to enable the use of the term ‘gluten free’ and ensure your products are safe for Coeliac sufferers.

Our gluten testing uses the gold standard Mendez extraction method, the R7001 RIDASCREEN GLIDAIN R5 ELISA and is UKAS accredited to give you confidence in the quality of our work. Our technical team are on hand to discuss any of your requirements, so please get in touch if you would like to know more about gluten testing.

There has been a recent review of Precautionary Allergen Labelling – the ‘May Contain’ consultation – which can be accessed here:

Precautionary Allergen Labelling consultation report (food.gov.uk)

If you would like any further details about our gluten testing, please contact our dedicated i2 FAST team sales@i2fast.com

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