AOECS convened the first-ever discussion at the European Parliament on gluten-free safety in the catering sector. Policymakers, industry representatives and patient organisations came together to address food accessibility, awareness and safer dining for people with coeliac disease across Europe. A clear message emerged: gluten-free food is not a lifestyle choice, it is a medical necessity.
The European Parliament’s Committee on Petitions (PETI) has voted to keep Petition No. 1468/2024 on coeliac disease open, calling for continued EU action and greater harmonisation across Member States. AOECS Secretary General Veronica Rubio addressed the Committee on behalf of coeliac patients across Europe, highlighting inequalities in diagnosis, healthcare support and access to gluten-free food.
In response to a petition submitted by the Catalan Coeliac Society, the European Commission emphasises that while EU rules on gluten and allergen information are in place, their practical impact depends on effective implementation and enforcement at national level. This serves as a clear reminder that we must continue to put pressure on national legislators to ensure these rules are applied.
Big moment for coeliac rights in the EU 🇪🇺🌾 Just two days ago, a petition by the Coeliacs of Catalunya and supported by AOECS, was accepted by the European Parliament’s Petitions Committee!
🎉 Interesting news for the #Coeliac community A petition by Esther Roger from the Catalunyan Coeliac Society has been officially accepted by the European Parliament’s Petitions Committee. It calls for a European Framework Directive on coeliac disease — including better diagnosis, training, support and access to gluten-free food. AOECS welcomes this initiative for coeliac rights across Europe. 💪
