Public health administration bans beer erroneously labeled as gluten free

Argentina’s National Administration of Medicines, Food and Medical Technology (ANMAT) prohibited the commercialization of Spanish imported beer Mahou Gluten-Free Cinco Estrellas. Through Resolution No. 8559/2019 published on October 22, 2019, in the Official Bulletin, the ANMAT stated that any beer categorized as gluten-free do not comply with the regulations established in the Argentine Food Code.

Mahou is a Spanish brand of beers brewed by the Mahou-San Miguel Group. The brand portfolio contains a variety of beers including non-alcoholic and mixed varieties.

The Mahou Gluten-Free Cinco Estrellas is promoted as a beer that is suitable for people with health issues, preserving the same flavor of its sister beer, the Mahou Cinco Estrellas. “This is a golden, creamy beer that is obtained from only the best varieties of hops and yeast, with a fruity aroma that is suitable for people with celiac disease”, Mahou says in its official promotion.

On October 14, 2015, a new regulation on food labeling was published in Argentina’s Official Bulletin under Resolution No. 420/2015 of the Secretariat of Commerce. It provides for the creation of a Label Supervision System under the authority of the Ministry of Economy and Public Finance, and it relates to several products for human consumption and human handling, including imported food and beverage products (F&B), cosmetics, personal care products and household cleaning products which are sold in Argentina. Labeling requirements include safety information, voltage, fire safety, and child safety information. Canned and bottled food labeling requirements include ingredients, identification of manufacturer/importer, and manufacturing/expiration dates.