fuel filter leaks

[prg machine]

I installed a brand new Pro Products 10210 inline fuel filter and 10232 3/8 male NPT to 3/8 hose fittings in my truck last week and checked close after installation with new hose and clamps etc. Then a test drive and re check. No obvious leaks. It was a last minute hurry up getting dark had to leave town dark thirty early the next morning tired and hungry job......I know, bad combination.
This weekend I got back and was getting the truck further prepared for winter and smelled the tell tale GAS ODOR!!!!! OH CR**!!!!

The leak appeared to be around the fittings that I securely threaded into the housing so I removed the filter/ fitting assembly. All anodized stuff. I discovered that the male pipe fittings into the housing bottom out before seating the taper of the threads as a conventional pipe to pipe fit is supposed to do. In other words no extra threads on the male fitting sticking out of the filter housing. I purposely used no sealants because it is for fuel.

It now has Teflon tape and the fittings are not seeping after re-installing the filter. The filter is purposely located before the mechanical Edelbrock pump on the small block to keep crud out of the pump and carb. The filter was advertised as 3/8 female pipe.
What am I missing?
Is Teflon tape acceptable in gasoline situations?
Is their an appropriate fuel approved sealant?

Help!