Navigating the supermarket aisles to identify genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a growing concern for many focused on nutrition and diet. With modern labeling standards and third-party certifications, consumers now have more tools than ever to make informed decisions. Understanding these tools is the first step toward greater transparency and control over your food choices.
Understanding the Labeling System
In the United States, the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (NBFDS) mandates that manufacturers, importers, and retailers disclose if a product contains bioengineered (BE) food ingredients. This law, effective January 1, 2022, offers several disclosure methods on product packaging. Exemptions exist for small manufacturers and ingredients with BE substances below a 5% threshold. The standard applies to foods for human consumption but not animal feed or highly refined ingredients where genetic material is undetectable.
Bioengineered (BE) Symbol
The prominent Bioengineered symbol is a circular design with a stylized plant and sun. It indicates the presence of BE food or ingredients. The symbol may be green and yellow, blue, and green, or in black and white, and includes text like "BIOENGINEERED".
Text-based Disclosures
Manufacturers can use text instead of or alongside the symbol. For single-ingredient items, the label might say "Bioengineered Food," while multi-ingredient products may state "Contains a bioengineered food ingredient".
Digital/QR Code Links
Another option is an electronic or digital link, often a QR code, which directs consumers to a webpage with BE information. Labels prompt users to "Scan here for more food information". A phone number must be provided for those without scanners.
Non-GMO Certification Seals
For additional assurance against GMOs, look for these voluntary third-party seals.
The Non-GMO Project Verified Seal
Recognizable by its monarch butterfly logo, this seal signifies rigorous standards with a GMO threshold below 0.9%. Verification involves testing, traceability, and supply chain segregation.
USDA Certified Organic Label
The USDA National Organic Program prohibits GMOs. Products with this label are guaranteed to be produced without genetic engineering, including seeds and animal feed.
Common GMO-Risk Crops and Ingredients
Certain crops are frequently genetically modified, and their derivatives are common in processed foods. Be aware of these to better avoid GMOs:
- Soybeans: Over 90% of US soybeans are GMO. Look out for soy derivatives like lecithin and protein.
- Corn: A significant portion of US corn is GMO. Common derivatives include corn syrup and cornstarch.
- Canola: Most canola oil in the US comes from GM plants.
- Sugar Beets: Much of the sugar in the US is from GM sugar beets. Opt for "pure cane sugar" or "organic sugar".
- Cotton: The majority of US cotton is GMO. Cottonseed oil is a potential source.
- Papaya: Hawaiian papaya is often GM.
- Alfalfa: Used in livestock feed, GMO alfalfa can be avoided by choosing organic or grass-fed meat and dairy.
How to Detect GMOs: A Comparison of Labels
| Feature | Mandatory Bioengineered Label (NBFDS) | Voluntary Non-GMO Project Verified Seal | Voluntary USDA Certified Organic Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governed By | USDA | The Non-GMO Project (third-party) | USDA |
| Mandatory? | Yes, for applicable foods | No | No |
| GMO Scope | Discloses products that contain BE genetic material | Excludes products with minimal or no GMOs | Excludes all GMOs |
| Detectability | Does not require labeling if genetic material is undetectable (e.g., highly refined ingredients) | Requires testing of high-risk ingredients for GMO presence | Explicitly prohibits genetic engineering |
| Coverage | Applies to most foods intended for human consumption | Widely applicable across food and non-food products | Applies to agricultural products, including food, feed, and fiber |
| Threshold | Allows for unintentional BE presence up to 5% per ingredient | Set a 0.9% threshold for ingredients (5% for animal feed) | Zero tolerance for genetic engineering methods |
Savvy Shopping Strategies to Avoid GMOs
Empower yourself with these practical tips to navigate your grocery list with confidence:
- Shop the store's perimeter: The outer aisles typically have fresh, whole foods less likely to contain hidden GMOs.
- Choose certified products: Look for the Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Certified Organic labels. Check for signage on bulk items.
- Buy organic meat and dairy: This ensures animals were not fed GMO feed. Also look for rBGH/rBST-free on dairy.
- Be ingredient-aware: Check ingredient lists for common GMO derivatives like high-fructose corn syrup and soy lecithin.
- Cook from scratch: Using whole ingredients gives you control over what's in your food, avoiding processed items with potential hidden GMOs.
- Support local farmers: Ask farmers at local markets about their practices; many use non-GMO methods.
Conclusion
Understanding how to check if a product is GMO is vital for informed dietary choices. By recognizing mandatory BE labels, voluntary certifications like Non-GMO Project Verified and USDA Organic, and practicing smart shopping habits, you can take control of your nutrition. Focusing on key indicators and whole foods simplifies navigating complex labeling. For more information on agricultural biotechnology and labeling, consult the official FDA website: FDA: Agricultural Biotechnology.
