The NOW Foods Non-GMO Commitment and Process
NOW Foods, a prominent name in the natural products industry, is committed to providing high-quality supplements. A cornerstone of this commitment is their stance on genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The company explicitly states its belief that GMOs are not natural and has been actively working toward a goal of using only non-GMO ingredients across its entire product line. This dedication has led to a multi-tiered quality assurance program designed to address the complexities of sourcing ingredients from across the globe.
Non-GMO Project Verification vs. NOW Non-GMO Assured
To provide consumers with confidence, NOW Foods utilizes a dual approach to non-GMO labeling. For many of its products, the company undergoes rigorous, independent verification through the Non-GMO Project. This third-party organization conducts facility audits and reviews extensive documentation to ensure products meet strict standards for GMO avoidance. A product that has passed this process is authorized to display the Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly seal on its label.
In addition, NOW has its own internal 'Non-GMO Assured' process. This designation is based on stringent NOW Quality Standards and is supported by a combination of supplier confirmations and in-house testing. This allows NOW to declare the non-GMO status of many products, even if they have not yet gone through the complete third-party verification process. This is particularly useful for complex supplements containing highly refined ingredients where documentation can be challenging.
Understanding Ingredient Challenges in Non-GMO Supplementation
Creating a product that is completely free of genetically modified material is a complex undertaking, and NOW Foods is transparent about these challenges. For instance, some ingredients can be challenging to source with full non-GMO documentation, especially if they are derived from high-risk crops like corn and soy. The company works with vendors to establish auditable non-GMO trails for each ingredient, performing its own testing as an intermediate step.
Another significant hurdle involves animal-derived ingredients, such as the gelatin used in softgels and capsules. It can be difficult to verify the non-GMO status of the animal feed used, which can affect the final product. In response, NOW chooses to use only bovine or fish-sourced gelatin and actively utilizes Non-GMO Project Verified vegetable capsules to open up more verification opportunities for its products. Similarly, probiotics and yeasts can sometimes be grown in media derived from corn and soy, but NOW is working with suppliers to ensure this growth media is also non-GMO.
How to Identify a Non-GMO NOW Vitamin
Identifying a non-GMO NOW product is straightforward if you know what to look for on the label or product description:
- Non-GMO Project Verified Seal: The most definitive indicator is the prominent monarch butterfly seal. This shows the product has been independently verified to meet the organization's rigorous standards.
- 'Non-GMO Assured' Icon: Look for the internal NOW Non-GMO Assurance Process icon. This signifies that the product has met NOW's strict internal criteria and has been tested or documented as non-GMO.
- Organic Certification: Since USDA Organic standards prohibit the use of GMOs, any NOW product certified as organic is also inherently non-GMO.
- Online Product Pages: A simple check of the product details on the NOW Foods website or a reputable retailer will clearly state the non-GMO status.
NOW Vitamins vs. Other Non-GMO Brands: A Comparison
To help illustrate how NOW's non-GMO standards compare, here is a table comparing NOW Foods with another brand known for its commitment to non-GMO ingredients, such as Garden of Life.
| Feature | NOW Foods | Garden of Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-GMO Commitment | High; explicit goal to eliminate GMOs | High; explicitly states refusal to use GMOs | Both brands prioritize non-GMO ingredients for their products. |
| Verification Process | Non-GMO Project Verified for many products; internal 'Non-GMO Assured' for others | Uses third-party verification, including IGEN for testing | Both utilize third-party testing and verification for transparency. |
| Organic Certification | QAI-certified organic products are available and are inherently non-GMO | Offers a wide range of USDA Certified Organic products | Organic certification is a reliable way to ensure non-GMO status for products from both brands. |
| Ingredient Complexity | Openly discusses challenges with animal feed and some excipients | Focuses on whole foods and uses Certified USDA Organic ingredients for cleanliness | NOW is more transparent about internal challenges, while Garden of Life emphasizes its organic whole-food sourcing. |
| Labeling | Uses Non-GMO Project Verified seal and NOW Non-GMO Assured icon | Features Non-GMO Project Verified seal or IGEN Tested logo | Both use clear labeling to communicate non-GMO status to consumers. |
The Broader Context of Non-GMO Supplements
Consumers' desire for non-GMO products is driven by a number of factors, including environmental sustainability and transparency. While science generally shows GMOs are safe, avoiding them is a personal choice that aligns with clean-label and natural wellness preferences. It's crucial to understand that non-GMO is not the same as organic. An organic certification, overseen by a government body, includes stricter standards that prohibit synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and all organic products are also non-GMO. Non-GMO certification, most commonly through the Non-GMO Project, specifically addresses the absence of genetically engineered ingredients. This distinction helps consumers make more informed decisions about their purchases based on their priorities.
Conclusion: Navigating Your Choices
Ultimately, the question of whether NOW vitamins are non-GMO is not a simple yes or no, but rather depends on the specific product. NOW Foods has a clear and transparent commitment to non-GMO sourcing, and a high percentage of their products are either Non-GMO Assured or Non-GMO Project Verified. For those seeking the highest level of assurance, looking for the Non-GMO Project Verified seal or choosing an organic option is the best course of action. By understanding the company's multi-layered approach to quality and checking labels carefully, you can confidently navigate the NOW Foods product line and choose the supplements that align with your health and wellness goals.
For a complete list of independently verified products, you can visit the Non-GMO Project website.
