Understanding GMOs in Brewing
For many consumers, the term "non-GMO" is a key indicator of ingredient transparency and quality. In the world of beer, a beverage traditionally made from four simple ingredients—barley, water, hops, and yeast—the concern over genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has grown with the industrialization of brewing. While the primary ingredients are less likely to be genetically modified, there are specific areas where GMOs can enter the brewing process.
Potential GMO Ingredients in Beer
- Yeast: The most frequently genetically modified ingredient in brewing today is yeast. Bioengineered yeast strains are developed to create specific flavor profiles, such as tropical fruit notes, or to produce a more consistent product. While beneficial for brewers aiming for specific results, these yeasts are a form of genetic modification.
- Adjuncts: Many large-scale breweries use adjuncts to supplement or replace traditional malted barley. Common examples include corn and corn syrup. Since both corn and corn syrup are high-risk GMO crops in the U.S., using them as brewing ingredients significantly increases the likelihood of GMO content.
- Clarifying Agents: Some fining agents, used to clarify beer, can be derived from animal or other sources, and their non-GMO status is not always clear. These can include isinglass (dried fish bladder), though many craft brewers avoid such additives.
The Challenge of Identifying Non-GMO Beer
Unlike many food products, U.S. federal and state regulations do not mandate ingredient labeling on alcoholic beverages. This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to determine if a specific beer contains GMO ingredients, as breweries are not legally required to disclose this information. Large-scale, commercial breweries, which often prioritize cost savings, are more likely to use cheaper, GMO-derived adjuncts like corn syrup. In contrast, many small, local craft breweries strive to use higher-quality, non-GMO ingredients, but without verification, consumers must rely on a brewery's stated practices.
How to Find Verified Non-GMO and Organic Beers
For consumers committed to a non-GMO diet, relying on recognized third-party certifications is the most reliable method to ensure a beer is free from GMO ingredients. Labels from the Non-GMO Project and the USDA Organic program provide clear verification.
Non-GMO Project Verified: This seal is a reliable indicator that a product has been tested and verified to meet strict standards for GMO avoidance. For breweries like North Coast Brewing Co., this verification requires an audit of the entire supply chain, from ingredients to processing aids, to prevent contamination.
USDA Organic Certification: Organic certification provides a built-in guarantee of non-GMO status, as USDA standards prohibit the use of genetically modified organisms. The certification has different tiers:
- 100% Organic: Made entirely from organically produced ingredients.
- Organic: Made with at least 95% organically produced ingredients.
- Made with Organic Ingredients: Contains at least 70% organic ingredients. In these cases, the remaining non-organic ingredients must still be non-GMO, but could potentially be something difficult to source organically, like hops.
Notable Non-GMO and Organic Beer Brands
Several breweries have proactively pursued non-GMO verification or organic certification to meet consumer demand for transparency. These brands are excellent starting points for those seeking a GMO-free brew.
- North Coast Brewing Co.: This brewery proudly features Non-GMO Project Verification for many of its core beers, including their popular Red Seal Ale.
- Peak Organic Brewing Co.: As one of the first brewers to receive Non-GMO Project verification, Peak has a long-standing commitment to pure, organic ingredients.
- Athletic Brewing Company: This company offers several non-alcoholic beers that are certified non-GMO, such as Run Wild IPA and Upside Dawn Golden Ale.
- Island Brands USA: Positioning themselves as a producer of "clean beers," their products are marketed as all-natural, GMO-free, and free of artificial flavors.
- Half Baked Brew (OH): A Columbus, Ohio-based craft brewery, Half Baked Brew ensures all its beers are organic and non-GMO by using organic or imported grains.
- Lakefront Brewery (WI): Found on lists of non-GMO organic beers, this Milwaukee-based brewery is another example of a brand committed to ingredient purity.
A Comparison of Non-GMO Beer Options
| Feature | Athletic Brewing Co. | North Coast Brewing Co. | Peak Organic Brewing Co. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Wide (non-alcoholic) | Regional/National | Regional/National |
| Certification | Non-GMO Verified (Select lines) | Non-GMO Verified (Core beers) | Organic / Non-GMO Verified |
| Alcohol Content | Non-alcoholic | Varies (Standard ABV) | Varies (Standard ABV) |
| Benefit | Great option for avoiding alcohol, yet getting a verified non-GMO product. | Strong commitment to ingredient transparency. | Pioneer in the organic and non-GMO space. |
| Product Focus | Non-alcoholic craft beer options. | Wide range of traditional craft beers. | Diverse selection of organic and seasonal craft beers. |
The Benefits of Choosing Non-GMO Beer
Opting for non-GMO beer goes beyond avoiding specific ingredients; it's a choice that reflects a larger commitment to mindful consumption and supporting certain production standards. For many, the appeal lies in ingredient transparency and knowing what they are putting into their bodies. Choosing brands with certifications like Non-GMO Project or USDA Organic provides assurance that the product meets specific criteria for ingredient sourcing and processing. Additionally, supporting non-GMO breweries often means supporting smaller craft businesses and local farmers who prioritize traditional, high-quality ingredients over cost-cutting methods involving additives. Some proponents also argue that non-GMO and organic beers may offer a more authentic flavor profile, created from natural yeast fermentation and high-quality, whole ingredients. For health-conscious consumers, this can be a key factor in their purchasing decisions, even if the primary benefit is in the transparency and ethical sourcing of the product.
Conclusion
The question of what beers are non-GMO? highlights the growing consumer interest in ingredient sourcing and transparency. While many traditional beers are inherently non-GMO due to their core ingredients, the use of adjuncts like corn syrup and modified yeast in modern brewing makes certification essential for those seeking verification. Fortunately, a growing number of breweries are responding to this demand by securing third-party verification from organizations like the Non-GMO Project or pursuing USDA Organic certification. By seeking out these labels, checking brewery websites, and supporting smaller, craft producers known for their ingredient integrity, consumers can confidently choose non-GMO beers that align with their dietary preferences and values. The rise of non-GMO and organic beer options empowers drinkers to make more informed and conscious choices about what they consume.
References
- Island Brands USA: Clean Beer, Non-GMO Beer, & Healthy Beer: They Aren't Equal https://www.islandbrandsusa.com/blogs/posts/clean-beer-non-gmo-beer-healthy-beer-are-they-the-same
- The Non-GMO Project: Beer, Wine, and Liquor: FAQs https://www.nongmoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/Beer-Wine-Liquor-FAQs.pdf
