Reading Gluten Free Labels in Australia

The FSANZ Standard 1.2.8

Australia's Food Standards Code (Standard 1.2.8) defines gluten-free as containing no detectable gluten. The threshold is less than 20 parts per million (ppm), matching international standards. A product labelled 'gluten-free' in Australia must meet this requirement.

However, just because something doesn't say 'gluten-free' doesn't mean it contains gluten. Many naturally gluten-free foods (rice, corn, potatoes) never need the label. You still need to read the ingredients list to be sure.

Allergen Summary Statements

Australian labels must clearly declare major allergens. Look for a box (usually near the ingredients) that lists 'Contains: wheat' or similar. If wheat, barley, or rye is in the product, it must be declared. However, this box only lists the obvious ingredients, not cross-contamination. A product made on shared equipment with gluten won't have a warning unless the manufacturer chooses to add one.

May Contain Warnings

'May contain traces of gluten' or 'made in a facility that processes wheat' means the manufacturer is warning about potential cross-contamination. This doesn't mean the product definitely contains gluten, just that there's a risk. Whether to avoid these is a personal choice that depends on your sensitivity level. Many Australians with coeliac disease tolerate 'may contain' products, but some react to even trace amounts.

Coeliac Australia Endorsement

The Coeliac Australia tick is your gold standard. Products bearing this endorsement have been independently tested and verified as meeting the <20ppm standard. It's especially useful for processed foods where you might be unsure about cross-contamination. You'll find it on many packaged gluten-free products, but not on naturally gluten-free wholefoods like fresh fruit or vegetables.

What to Watch For

Additive numbers starting with 1 (like 1401, 1402, 1403) are modified starches, often wheat-derived. Check the label to confirm the source. Malt flavouring (almost always from barley) means gluten is present. Beer extract and some colouring agents can contain gluten. When in doubt, look up the additive number on the Australian Food Standards database or call the manufacturer.

Sources

FSANZ, Coeliac Australia, Celiac Disease Foundation, FDA, Beyond Celiac