The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG), an industry leader in the certification of gluten-free products and food services, certified 2,203 products made by 196 brands in 2018. The products, certified through GIG’s Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) program, encompass food, beverage, non-food, and pharmacy items. From bakery goods to vodka, from cotton candy to a children’s decongestant, innovation in gluten-free products continues as consumers’ expectations rise for better product quality and choice. GFCO currently certifies more than 52,000 products made by over 2,500 brands in 47 countries.
 
“Consumers today are demanding transparency, accountability, and authenticity in food processing, and manufacturers worldwide continue to turn to GFCO’s third-party certification to secure the trust of the gluten-free community,” said Chris Rich, vice president of marketing & development, GIG. “With no cure for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, consumers will continue to demand gluten-free products.”
 
Helping manufacturers win consumer confidence and loyalty, GFCO sets high standards in quality control and assurance for gluten-free certification, including risk assessment, plant audits, equipment testing, and product testing both in the plant and at the point of consumer purchase. GFCO requires that all finished products using the GFCO logo contain 10 ppm or less of gluten, a stricter standard than the labeling requirements of the U.S., Canada, European Union, and many other countries.
 
Founded in 1974, GIG is a 501(c)(3) non-profit association funded by private donations, fundraising, sponsorship opportunities, and industry programs. It relies on tax-deductible contributions to support its industry, service, social, and awareness programs. In addition to more than 70 local branches across the U.S., GIG has increased its presence internationally to over 47 countries. GIG empowers the gluten-free community through consumer support, advocacy and education. The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), a program of GIG, is a leader in the verification of quality, integrity and purity of gluten-free products. The Gluten-Free Food Service (GFFS) Certification Program is a proven model of established best practices for food service facilities offering gluten-free options.