FODMAP Certification now available in Australia
FODMAPs are Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. They are found in wheat, rye, apple, honey, legumes, onion, garlic and milk. It includes fructose and lactose intolerance. Around 35 percent of Australians are estimated to have an intolerance to one or more of these FODMAPs.
These sugars and related molecules have been associated with a variety of conditions / symptoms of the bowel in those who are intolerant, including; bloating, wind, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, Coeliac and Crohn’s diseases. Those with an intolerance to these foods will usually be advised to follow a low FODMAP diet.
Just like with Gluten Free labelling, it would be a major advantage to the purchasing public to have a clear way of identifying if there are any FODMAPs in a food product.
Certification is now available in Australia for low FODMAP food products. It comes with a FODMAP Friendly logo which will help purchasers determine if a food is suitable for consumption by those who have a FODMAP intolerance. The labelling system is government approved for fructose-friendly and lactose-friendly foods.
The new logo and certification was developed by Advanced Accredited Practicing Dietitian Dr Sue Shepherd. The logo is not permitted to be used until the food product has undergone testing in an independent laboratory against specific standards. This is very similar to the process used for the Heart Foundation Tick.
Dr Shepherd said; “The new FODMAP Friendly logo is to help people advised to follow a Low FODMAP Diet easily identify and select suitable foods for their dietary needs. People who experience problems due to hidden ingredients in foods, and who find themselves spending time reading food packaging, and labels will benefit from the new FODMAP Friendly logo.”
Several companies in Australia have already realised that advantage to both their business and their customers by adopting the FODMAP Friendly logo program for their products. There will obviously be more companies coming on board in the near future and eventually this logo will be as well recognised and respected as the Heart FoundationTick.
Dr Shepherd said; “This certification is a game-changer, eliminating the confusion faced every time they grocery shop and creating a benchmark for other manufacturers. Those experiencing IBS will now be able to eat delicious, readily available cereals and snacks that won’t trigger pain or discomfort after eating.”
To find out more, food manufacturers can fill in the enquiry form at www.fodmap.com
This article has been written by Rachelle Williams, The Green Food Safety Coach.