NORTHBROOK (WSIL) -- Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that have gluten could possibly need to have warning labels after an Illinois House panel approved a new bill.
The gluten labeling legislation, sponsored by State Rep. Jonathan Carroll (D-Northbrook), was voted Monday, 6-0 by the Illinois House Consumer Protection Committee.
“While supermarkets and restaurants have stepped up their gluten-free offerings in recent years, even non-food items can contain hidden gluten,â€Â said Carroll who chairs the consumer committee. “My bill requires drug manufacturers to clearly label their products made with gluten ingredients, so patients can make the safest possible choices for their health.â€�
Those in violation could face fines up to $100,000.
One local pharmacist says this measure will help patients make safe choices for their health and should protect pharmacists.
"It needs to be clearly defined that the responsibility lies within the manufacturers who are going to produce the labeling and not fine pharmacists for having a product that didn't come with the labeling from the manufacturer," said Ben Calcaterra.
Carroll noted that Celiac disease, for example, affects an estimated 3 million Americans for whom a gluten-free diet is medically necessary.
The legislation is on its way to the full House for consideration.
