Understanding the FODMAP Friendly Program: What You Need to Know

If you’re following a low FODMAP diet, you may have heard about the FODMAP Friendly Program. This certification program helps people with IBS and other digestive issues identify foods that are safe to eat. In this post, we’ll go over the basics of the FODMAP Friendly Program and answer some common questions about it.

What is the FODMAP Friendly Program?

The FODMAP Friendly Program is a certification system that evaluates food products to determine whether they meet the requirements of a low FODMAP diet. Products that meet the criteria are awarded the FODMAP Friendly certification logo, indicating that they are safe for people with IBS and other digestive issues to consume.

How does the certification process work?

The FODMAP Friendly Program evaluates food products based on a strict set of guidelines. Products are tested to determine their FODMAP content, and only those that meet the criteria are awarded the certification logo. Companies must apply to be evaluated and pay a fee for each product tested.

To be certified by the FODMAP Friendly Program, products must be tested by an independent laboratory using strict protocols. The program has two levels of certification: low FODMAP and very low FODMAP. Products that are certified as very low FODMAP have been tested to contain less than 0.5g of FODMAPs per serving, making them safe for people with even the most sensitive digestive systems.

What are the benefits of the FODMAP Friendly Program?

The FODMAP Friendly Program provides numerous benefits for people following a low FODMAP diet, including:

A reliable way to identify foods that are safe to eat.
Confidence in knowing that products have been rigorously tested and meet strict guidelines.
Access to a wide range of certified products from reputable companies.
Help with meal planning and grocery shopping.

How Can I find products with the FODMAP Friendly certification?

The FODMAP Friendly website maintains a list of certified products that you can search by category, brand, or product name. Many products are also labeled with the certification logo on the packaging, making them easy to identify in stores.

Is the FODMAP Friendly Program the only certification for low FODMAP products?

No, there are other certifications available for low FODMAP products, including the Monash University Low FODMAP CertifiedTM program. However, the FODMAP Friendly Program is a widely recognized certification that is available in many countries around the world.

It’s worth noting that not all low FODMAP foods are certified by the FODMAP Friendly Program, so it’s still important to read ingredient labels and use the Monash University FODMAP app or other resources to determine the FODMAP content of foods. However, the FODMAP Friendly logo can be a helpful tool for quickly identifying low FODMAP options.

Conclusion:

If you’re following a low FODMAP diet, the FODMAP Friendly Program can be a valuable tool in helping you identify foods that are safe to eat. By looking for the certification logo and searching the FODMAP Friendly website, you can find a wide range of certified products from reputable companies. While it’s not the only certification available, the FODMAP Friendly Program is a reliable and widely recognized certification that can help make meal planning and grocery shopping easier for those with digestive issues.