Celiac Safety Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill would add gluten-containing grains to the federal list of major food allergens, closing a gap that currently only covers wheat. Rye, barley, and hybrid grains like triticale would now require the same clear allergen labeling that milk, eggs, peanuts, and other top allergens already have.
• The bill specifically defines "gluten-containing grain" to cover wheat (genus Triticum), rye (genus Secale), barley (genus Hordeum), and any crossbred hybrids of these grains, such as triticale.
• Food companies would have 18 months after the bill becomes law to update their labels and comply with the new requirements. This delayed start date gives manufacturers time to redesign packaging and reformulate products if needed.
• Currently, wheat is the only gluten-containing grain on the major allergen list. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who react to barley or rye must carefully read full ingredient lists rather than relying on the clear allergen warnings that cover other common allergens.