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In <[log in to unmask]>, on 04/30/97
   at 04:43 PM, Carol Fonken <[log in to unmask]> said:

>>My reaction:
>>
>>  I do worry, however, when
>>individuals stress the non GF status of questionable ingredients - such
>>as distilled vinegar - to manufacturers (I realize the above poster did
>>not do that). We can't even agree on this list about distilled vinegar,
>>and I would hate to throw it up as another roadblock to companies trying
>>their best to provide us with accurate information.

Coincidently, I just learned that Westbrae Natural Foods, Carson, CA
90746 (Division of Vestro Natural Foods) (800-769-6455) no longer supplies
a GF list.(Barbara)

 When I spoke to them last year about one product, they volunteered a list
which I still have. Somehow the subject of alcohol came up in a
non-confrontational way. I learned their policy at that time tried to
accomodate their own position that all alcohols were gluten free with the
apparent belief of some that "grain alcohol" and "distilled alcohol" did
contain gluten. If you asked whether an ingredient was made from grain
alcohol, they would truthfully answer. "Gluten free" and they ignored the
source of alcohol.  The woman I spoke to then said everyone there was
familiar with the situation and told to answer in this (awkward) way.

I tried to find out why they no longer supply a GF list. At first I only
got a " that's the policy now" response.  I asked whether this had
anything to do with  alcohol. Barbara also knew of the alcohol, but would
neither confirm or deny it.

I don't deny that some react and quickly to distilled or grain alcohol (
though I question their explanation for it). Somehow the gluten sensitive
community, whether celiac, gluten (or otherwise) allergic,  or DH, whether
biopsy- or self-diagnosed, needs  ways to get useful info from food
manufacturers. Few of us have the time to prepare everything from scratch.

                            Kemp Randolph
                            Long Island

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