Shaklee's Official Stance on GMO Ingredients
Shaklee has a clear and public non-GMO policy, asserting that product safety, purity, and quality are its top priorities. This policy extends to sourcing ingredients from suppliers who can certify that their components are not genetically modified. The company goes a step further by conducting its own testing on finished products to confirm the absence of GMOs, which demonstrates a commitment that exceeds relying solely on supplier certifications. This rigorous approach is consistent with the company's long-standing reputation as a leader in natural-source nutrition.
Non-GMO Commitment Across Product Lines
While the non-GMO commitment applies broadly across Shaklee's food products, certain items are highlighted more frequently. For instance, the Energizing Soy Protein is explicitly mentioned as being made with non-GMO soy protein, sourced under an Identity Preservation Program (IPP). This IPP ensures tight control and monitoring of the soybeans from planting through processing, guaranteeing their non-GMO status. Additionally, the company's newer products, such as its body care collection, are also formulated without GMOs.
The Testing and Certification Process
The process for ensuring ingredients are non-GMO is part of a larger quality assurance system at Shaklee. The company tests each new ingredient it sources, including over 350 tests for pesticide residues in botanical ingredients. This is a more stringent standard than many other companies, which may only accept a Certificate of Analysis from a supplier without re-testing. By performing its own raw material and finished product testing, Shaklee confirms that the final product does not contain GMOs, contaminants, or other impurities.
A Broader Philosophy of Clean Ingredients
Shaklee's non-GMO policy is not an isolated effort but is integrated into a broader philosophy of using clean and natural ingredients. The company has an unwavering commitment to avoiding artificial flavors, sweeteners, and added preservatives across its formulations. Its quality standards, which it calls "Beyond Organic," go further than simply where and how an ingredient is grown, focusing on confirming purity and potency after harvest. This comprehensive approach to quality and safety is a cornerstone of the Shaklee brand.
The Significance of a Non-GMO Policy
A company's non-GMO policy is important for several reasons. Consumers who wish to avoid GMOs for health, environmental, or personal preference reasons can rely on such a policy. It also shows a dedication to ingredient transparency and a willingness to invest in rigorous quality control measures. For Shaklee, this means ensuring that its plant-based protein sources, like soy, are carefully monitored to meet these standards.
Shaklee Non-GMO vs. Other Industry Standards
When evaluating a company's commitment to non-GMO ingredients, it's useful to compare its practices with standard industry certifications. The table below outlines how Shaklee's approach aligns with and differs from other well-known non-GMO and organic standards.
| Feature | Shaklee Non-GMO Policy | Non-GMO Project Verified | USDA Certified Organic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sourcing | Requires non-GMO certification from suppliers | Requires verification from third-party experts | Prohibits GMOs and synthetic inputs |
| Testing | Internal re-testing of raw materials and finished products | Independent third-party testing | Certified organic products and ingredients are considered non-GMO |
| Commitment | Publicly states commitment and actively certifies food products | Ensures products meet a strict set of standards | Follows extensive set of organic regulations |
| Scope | Covers all food products and specifies non-GMO soy | Verifies individual products on a case-by-case basis | Includes prohibition of GMOs but extends to many other agricultural standards |
| Transparency | Publicly available policy outlining testing and certification processes | Public database of verified products | Clear labeling regulated by the USDA |
Lists for Understanding Shaklee's Policy
Commitments within Shaklee's Non-GMO Policy:
- Shaklee requires suppliers to provide certification that ingredients are non-GMO.
- The company performs its own comprehensive testing on both raw materials and finished products.
- Specific ingredients, such as soy protein, are sourced under an Identity Preservation Program (IPP) to ensure non-GMO status.
Reasons for Shaklee's Rigorous Approach:
- To ensure product safety and purity for consumers.
- To meet the company's long-standing philosophy of clean, natural ingredients.
- To exceed standard regulatory requirements and build consumer trust.
Conclusion: Shaklee's Stance is Clear
For consumers asking, "Does Shaklee use GMO ingredients?" the answer is a firm no, supported by a transparent and multi-layered policy. The company's public commitment, which includes active non-GMO certification processes for its food products, rigorous internal testing, and careful supplier management, solidifies its position. This dedication to ingredient purity is a core part of the Shaklee brand, ensuring customers can feel confident about the products they use. For further information, the official Shaklee website is the most reliable resource.
For additional context on their quality standards, you can visit the Shaklee website directly for their official policy.
