<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> This afternoon, the Senate HELP Committee took a major step toward improving the nation's food labeling laws. The Committee, led by Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) and Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), unanimously passed legislation requiring the top 8 allergens -- peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, soybeans, shellfish, fish, and wheat -- to be listed on food labels by their common or usual name, or by source of the ingredient. The measure also requires the Secretary of HHS to develop rules for the use of the term 'gluten-free' on food labels. The "Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2003" is now Title II of S. 741. Today's action by the HELP Committee demonstrates that our unified efforts are making a difference. The SINGLE voice of the celiac community was heard, and taken seriously. All of us deserve credit for getting this far. Next up, the Senate Floor. Thanks for your help, Andrea Levario and Allison Herwitt Co-Chairs, Legislative Project American Celiac Task Force www.celiaccenter.org/taskforce.asp [log in to unmask] * Send administrative questions to [log in to unmask] *