Campbell's Transparency on Bioengineered Ingredients
Following the implementation of the USDA's National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (NBFDS) in 2022, many food manufacturers, including Campbell's, are required to disclose bioengineered (BE) ingredients. However, Campbell's was proactive in its transparency well before the federal mandate. The company announced its intention to start labeling products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in 2016, breaking with many of its industry peers. The move was driven by consumer feedback and a commitment to openness about food sourcing.
To meet this standard, Campbell's uses clear language or the official symbol on its U.S. products. This disclosure often appears directly below the ingredients list and specifies ingredients derived from genetically modified crops, such as corn, soy, or canola. This transparency allows consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions based on their preferences.
Common Bioengineered Ingredients in Campbell's Soups
Several key ingredients commonly used in many of Campbell's products can be derived from bioengineered sources. Consumers will find these reflected in the company's disclosure statements. Key ingredients include:
- Corn: A highly common bioengineered crop in the United States, corn derivatives such as cornstarch, high fructose corn syrup, and corn oil are frequently used in soups for thickening, sweetening, and flavor.
- Soy: Ingredients like soy protein concentrate and soybean oil are derived from soybeans, another crop with a high prevalence of bioengineered varieties.
- Canola: Many products, including soups and sauces, use canola oil, which is also commonly sourced from bioengineered canola crops.
- Sugar Beets: In products that use sugar, a significant portion of the U.S. supply comes from bioengineered sugar beets.
These are not exhaustive lists, and specific ingredients vary by product. Always check the label for the most accurate information.
Understanding Bioengineered vs. Non-GMO Labels
It is important for consumers to understand the different labeling standards. The USDA's bioengineered label is mandatory for certain qualifying foods, but other voluntary certifications provide additional assurances for those who wish to avoid all GMOs. The table below outlines the key differences.
| Feature | USDA Bioengineered (BE) Label | Non-GMO Project Verified | Certified Organic (USDA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulation | Mandatory for qualifying products under the NBFDS. | Voluntary third-party certification. | Mandatory for organic products. |
| Detection | Only required if detectable genetic material is present in the final product. | Prohibits all GMO ingredients, regardless of detectability in the final product. | Prohibits all GMOs as a part of broader organic farming standards. |
| Scope | Narrows the definition of bioengineering, leading to some exemptions. | A comprehensive standard that is more inclusive than the NBFDS. | Encompasses many production methods, including prohibiting GMOs. |
| Exclusions | Highly refined oils and sugars, which lack detectable genetic material, are often excluded from labeling. | No exclusions for highly refined ingredients derived from GMOs. | All ingredients and their processing methods must align with organic standards. |
| Example | Label on a soup with modified corn starch. | The "Butterfly" logo on Late July Snacks, a Campbell's brand. | The "USDA Organic" seal on Pacific Foods, another Campbell's brand. |
Exemptions and Highly Refined Ingredients
A significant point of confusion for consumers is the exemption of highly refined ingredients under the NBFDS. This means that while a soup may use ingredients like corn oil or sugar derived from a bioengineered crop, it might not require a BE label if the refining process removes all detectable genetic material. This is why the Non-GMO Project's verification is often considered a stricter standard for consumers seeking to avoid GMOs entirely, as it prohibits ingredients from genetically engineered sources regardless of detectability in the final product.
Making Informed Choices About Campbell's Soup
For consumers concerned about their food, Campbell's offers a range of choices. If avoiding bioengineered ingredients is a priority, reading labels carefully is the best course of action. Products with the USDA's BE label clearly contain ingredients from bioengineered crops. For stricter standards, consumers can look for brands like Pacific Foods or specific products from other Campbell's brands that carry the Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic seals.
The company's policy of labeling and offering organic options provides consumers with the information and choice they need to align their purchases with their dietary preferences. Consumers are encouraged to review both product labels and the company's ingredient information on their website for further details.
The Campbell's Company provides ingredient information on its website for consumer reference
