Breyers' Non-GMO Sourced Ingredients Pledge
Breyers maintains a public commitment to high-quality ingredients, which includes using naturally sourced colors and flavors, sustainably farmed fruit and vanilla, and milk and cream from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones. As part of this broader pledge, the company transitioned several of its products to use non-GMO sourced ingredients. This means the ingredients used in these specific products are not derived from genetically modified crops.
It's important to understand that the term "non-GMO sourced ingredients" is a company claim and not the same as a third-party certification like the Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly label. While Breyers is transparent about its ingredient sourcing, the company has not pursued official third-party verification for most of its products. Additionally, while the dairy is from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones, this does not explicitly guarantee that the cows' feed was also non-GMO. Consumers should weigh these factors when making purchasing decisions based on their dietary standards.
Identifying Non-GMO Breyers Products
The most definitive way to identify Breyers' non-GMO sourced products is to check the official company website, which has a dedicated section for these items. Historically, popular flavors such as Natural Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry were among the first to receive this designation. Breyers has also expanded its non-dairy offerings, with options like Non-Dairy Vanilla made with oat milk explicitly stating they are made with non-GMO sourced ingredients.
Here is a list of product types and examples commonly made with non-GMO sourced ingredients:
- Classic Ice Cream Flavors: Natural Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry.
- Flavor Combinations: Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry.
- Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts: Vanilla (oat milk), Vanilla Peanut Butter (almond milk).
To be certain, always check the packaging for the most up-to-date claim, as product formulations and ingredient sourcing can change over time. The label will typically state, "Made with Non-GMO Sourced Ingredients."
Ice Cream vs. Frozen Dairy Dessert: A Key Distinction
Before you buy, it's critical to know the difference between Breyers' traditional "ice cream" products and its "frozen dairy desserts." This is not just a marketing term; it's a difference in legal definition and ingredients.
- Breyers Ice Cream: These products meet the FDA's standard of identity for ice cream, which requires a minimum of 10% milkfat. They generally feature a simpler ingredient list, with classics like Natural Vanilla using milk, cream, and sugar.
- Breyers Frozen Dairy Dessert: These products do not meet the legal criteria for ice cream. They are often lower in fat and may contain a wider range of additives, including some that carry a higher risk of being GMO unless specifically stated otherwise. For example, some may include corn syrup, which is a high-risk ingredient for GMOs if not sourced carefully. About 40% of Breyers products fall into this category.
Comparison of Breyers Frozen Treats
| Feature | Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream | Breyers Non-Dairy Vanilla (Oat Milk) | Breyers Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream (Note: May include corn syrup) | Breyers Cookies & Candies Flavors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-GMO Sourced Ingredients | Yes, claimed | Yes, claimed | Not specified (check label), may contain corn syrup | Not guaranteed, as mix-ins may not meet the claim |
| Product Type | Real Ice Cream | Frozen Non-Dairy Dessert | Real Ice Cream | Ice Cream or Frozen Dairy Dessert |
| Key Ingredients | Milk, cream, sugar, natural flavors | Oat milk, sugar, coconut oil, natural flavor | Milk, cream, sugar, corn syrup, egg yolks, etc. | Varies, contains cookies and candies from external suppliers |
| Primary Concern | Sourcing of milk feed, although the dairy comes from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones. | Potential allergens like soy protein isolate in some non-dairy recipes. | The inclusion of corn syrup, which is a high-risk GMO ingredient unless stated otherwise. | Suppliers of mix-ins like cookies and candies might not make non-GMO claims. |
A Broader Look at Non-GMO Claims in Food
Navigating the non-GMO landscape can be complex. For a claim to be considered robust, it should ideally be backed by a third-party certification. While Breyers' commitment to using non-GMO sourced ingredients is a step towards greater transparency, it's not the same as a certified status. Other brands that seek third-party verification might offer a higher level of assurance for consumers prioritizing a completely GMO-free diet.
Furthermore, the issue extends beyond the primary ingredients. The Ethical Consumer Guide highlights concerns regarding animal welfare and potential GMOs in animal feed within the dairy industry, pointing out that even non-GMO claims on the final product don't guarantee non-GMO feed was used. Therefore, consumers seeking the strictest non-GMO standards should investigate organic products, which are prohibited from using GMOs.
For those interested in making informed choices, checking for certifications like the USDA Organic seal or the Non-GMO Project Verified label is the most reliable method. Breyers' own website is the best source for their specific list of non-GMO sourced products.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, choosing a Breyers ice cream or frozen dessert made with non-GMO sourced ingredients is possible for consumers prioritizing this aspect of their nutrition diet. Breyers clearly labels these products, and their official website provides an up-to-date list. However, shoppers should be mindful that the company's claim is based on sourcing, not on third-party certification. For the highest degree of assurance regarding GMOs, including the feed for dairy cows, certified organic products are the gold standard. For a delicious, classic treat, Breyers offers several clearly marked non-GMO sourced options in both dairy and non-dairy formats, empowering consumers to make the choice that's right for them.
To learn more about what the Non-GMO Project Verification entails, visit their FAQ page.
