GCC Regulators Proposed New Gluten-Free Food Standards
New regulations define gluten thresholds to help shoppers with allergies and intolerances identify safer food options.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Allergies
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The Gulf Cooperation Council has submitted updated technical standards for gluten-free food labeling to the World Trade Organisation. These proposed rules aim to standardize safety claims across the region to help consumers with gluten sensitivities.
Why it matters
Clearer labeling standards reduce the risk of accidental exposure for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance by ensuring that products claiming to be gluten-free meet strict, verifiable nutritional safety levels.
The proposed standards establish a maximum of 20mg/kg for gluten-free claims and 100mg/kg for reduced-gluten labels, with products exceeding 100mg/kg prohibited from making any gluten-related claims. It remains unknown when these regulations will be finalized following the public comment period.
The players
Gulf Cooperation Council
A political and economic alliance of countries in the Middle East that develops regional standards for food safety and health policy.
World Trade Organisation
An international body that reviews technical trade regulations to ensure they facilitate fair exchange and safety standards.
The details
Food manufacturers must implement Good Manufacturing Practices to prevent cross-contamination and ensure that gluten-free products are nutritionally equivalent to the items they replace. Labels will also be required to provide matching Arabic text to ensure accessibility for local consumers. Products labeled as reduced-gluten or very low gluten must fall between 20mg/kg and 100mg/kg of gluten content.
Timeline
April 2025: Original Arabic allergen regulations were published.
August 2026: GSO published English versions of food allergen declarations.
September 28, 2026: These new regulatory standards were reported.
October 17, 2026: The deadline for public comment on the WTO notification.
Health Landscape
These regulations represent a major step in the ongoing effort to modernize food safety labeling across the Middle East. The move aligns regional requirements with international practices to provide greater protection for the growing number of individuals managing gluten-related health conditions.
If you manage celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, these upcoming changes may provide more reliable information on packaged food labels. It is worth discussing with your doctor how to interpret current versus future labeling systems to ensure your dietary choices remain safe.
The takeaway
These proposed standards provide a clear benchmark for identifying safe, gluten-free food products in the region. Consumers should track official updates on when these labeling requirements will appear on store shelves to help simplify their grocery shopping process.
What happens next
The World Trade Organisation is accepting public comments on these technical regulations until October 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on managing dietary sensitivities, visit our Allergies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Foodnavigator.
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