It may be hard to believe, but Frito-Lay, Plano, Texas, says that a large number of its chips have always been made without gluten ingredients. But the company is working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Food Allergy Research Program and the Celiac Disease Foundation to develop a validation program for most of its products to carry "gluten-free" labels.

"We understand that living with gluten sensitivities can present some challenges, and when you or a loved one is diagnosed, it can be overwhelming and confusing,” Kari Hecker Ryan, PhD, RD, group manager of nutrition science and regulatory affairs, Frito-Lay North America, said in a press release. “We are doing our due diligence to ensure that our validated products comply with the proposed standards by testing ingredients and finished products, so the shopper can trust our gluten-free claim."

Frito-Lay products that can be labeled gluten-free would get a new "GF" icon or a statement on the back of the packaging highlighting the designation. Presently, the company claims that there are approximately 30 products that have passed testing, including some Doritos, Fritos, Lay's, Ruffles and Tostito's varieties.

Source: www.nbcfw.com