How to file a gluten-free food complaint with the FDA starting October 1, 2024: The process has changed

On October 1, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration updated the way in which consumers must go about reporting food-related issues to the agency. You will no longer contact an FDA consumer complaint coordinator. Reports should now be filed with the Human Foods Program either by phone or through the online safety reporting portal:

• Phone 1-888-723-3366
• Online safety reporting portal https://www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov/SRP2/en/Home.aspx?sid=688fce1c-79e8-4f07-9c30-376eeea453dd.

The Human Foods Program will assess and evaluate complaints. The new Office of Inspections and Investigations will follow up with manufacturers as needed.

Before filing a complaint, be prepared to describe the labeling issue, and provide:

• product details
• ingredient information
• manufacturer contact information
• product lot number and expiration date

Please also take photos to upload that show the ingredients list and gluten-free claim. Do not use product photos available online.

According to the email sent out by the FDA, “This streamlined process will expedite delivery of inquiries and complaints to the appropriate public health experts at the FDA and allow for more consistent processing and earlier detection of potential public health problems.”

This is a step in the right direction. We won’t be holding our breath that issues with gluten-free foods will be investigated with increased urgency, but hope springs eternal.

For more information, please see https://www.fda.gov/food/resources-you-food/industry-and-consumer-assistance-hfp?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery