My May 3, 2020, Inquiry to the FDA Re:
Cornstarch in Packaging Materials, Case #233217
"Are manufacturers
required to declare if a product contains cornstarch if any of the packaging
materials are pre-dusted with cornstarch? The cornstarch isn't actually added
to the food product, but has come into contact with the food product through
cross-contact. This particular issue has been raised many times in our corn
allergy support groups, so we are very grateful for your attention to our
inquiry."
May 5, 2020, Reply from the FDA
The Food and Drug
Administration’s (FDA) Food and Cosmetic Information Center (FCIC)/Technical
Assistance Network (TAN) has prepared a response for case number 233217.:
"Thank you for your
inquiry.
Ingredients in food contact
substances (FCS) do not need to be labeled on the label of a food product. The
safety of a (FCS) is guaranteed by the manufacturer of that FCS, that is will
cause no harm when in contact with food.
Regarding the cornstarch,
corn is not one of the 8 major allergens which would need to be declared on a
food product label, therefore the cornstarch would not need to be listed on the
label.
Thank you for contacting
FDA’s FCIC/TAN."
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SPECIAL NOTE:
Even though cornstarch in packaging material is EXEMPT from FDA labeling
requirements, a manufacturer MAY NOT claim their product is corn free if it
contains any amount of cornstarch; e.g., I believe this is why I have been
reacting to Against the Grain Gourmet Pizza (advertised as “corn free”). I sent a message to Against the Grain
inquiring if the cardboard under the pizza or plastic wrapping may have been
dusted with cornstarch by their suppliers; however, they have not responded to
my inquiry.
Diane H., Corn Allergy Advocate
Corn Allergy Advocacy/Resources
Twitter:
@CornAllergy911
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