Decoding Food Labels: Your Guide to Identifying GMOs
While you cannot determine if a vegetable is genetically modified (GMO) by its appearance, smell, or taste, specific labels and codes provide the necessary information. The most significant tool is the mandatory Bioengineered (BE) food labeling standard implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This standard provides several disclosure options for manufacturers, including text, symbols, and electronic or digital links.
The Mandatory Bioengineered (BE) Food Disclosure
In the U.S., the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requires manufacturers to label food containing bioengineered ingredients. The disclosure can appear in several forms:
- A circular symbol featuring a plant and sun with the term "Bioengineered."
- A simple text statement that reads "Bioengineered food" or "Contains a bioengineered food ingredient."
- A digital link, such as a QR code, that requires scanning for more food information. This must be accompanied by a phone number providing the same information.
- A text message option, where shoppers can text a number for food information.
It is important to note that the BE labeling standard has certain exemptions. For instance, highly refined ingredients where the modified genetic material is undetectable, like some oils and sugars, may not require disclosure. Foods from animals that were fed genetically engineered feed are also exempt. This means reading labels and understanding these nuances is crucial for making informed decisions.
The Voluntary Non-GMO Project Verified Label
For consumers looking for an extra layer of assurance, the Non-GMO Project Verified label is a voluntary, third-party certification. You can recognize it by the orange butterfly on a green plant logo.
- Third-party verification: The Non-GMO Project requires products to undergo third-party testing and auditing to ensure they meet the organization's rigorous standards for GMO avoidance.
- Avoidance, not 'free': The label signifies that a product is produced according to best practices for GMO avoidance, but does not claim to be "GMO-free." This is because due to factors like cross-pollination and supply chain contamination, preventing all trace amounts of GMOs is nearly impossible.
- Stricter standards: While the USDA's Bioengineered label is mandatory for certain foods, the Non-GMO Project's criteria are often more comprehensive and cover a wider range of products, including those that might be exempt from the mandatory BE standard.
Can PLU Codes Tell You if a Vegetable is GMO?
Price Look-Up (PLU) codes on produce stickers were once a potential indicator, but relying on them today is unreliable.
- Historically: A five-digit PLU code beginning with '8' was designated for genetically modified produce. However, this system was voluntary and was never widely adopted by retailers.
- Currently: The use of the '8' prefix for GMOs is now considered obsolete by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS). While a five-digit code starting with '9' reliably indicates organic produce, the absence of an '8' does not mean the product is non-GMO.
Therefore, PLU codes should not be used as the primary method for identifying GMOs. Always defer to official BE or Non-GMO Project Verified labels.
High-Risk Crops and Derivatives
Consumers should be aware of which common crops are most likely to be genetically modified. These include corn, soy, canola, sugar beets, alfalfa, and cotton. When buying packaged goods, it is also important to read the ingredient list for derivatives of these crops, such as corn syrup, soy lecithin, or canola oil.
Comparison of GMO Labeling Methods
| Feature | Mandatory USDA Bioengineered (BE) Label | Voluntary Non-GMO Project Verified Label | PLU Codes (Five-Digit, Starts with '8') |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandate | Yes (for regulated foods) | No | No, obsolete standard |
| Appearance | Circular symbol or text | Orange butterfly on green plant logo | Five-digit number on produce sticker |
| Verification | Based on detectable modified genetic material, with exemptions | Rigorous third-party testing and auditing | Voluntary, rarely used, and unreliable |
| Scope | Regulated foods containing detectable BE material | Wide range of food and non-food products | Limited to fresh produce |
| Reliability | Generally reliable for regulated products | Highly reliable for avoidance | Not reliable |
Conclusion
While a vegetable's appearance offers no clues to its genetic status, understanding modern food labeling empowers consumers. Look for the mandatory USDA Bioengineered (BE) symbol or text on packaged foods, and the voluntary Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly seal for additional assurance, particularly with produce and packaged goods. Do not rely on PLU codes, as the old "8" system is no longer a reliable indicator. By combining label literacy with knowledge of high-risk crops, you can confidently navigate the grocery store aisles and make purchasing decisions that align with your preferences.
Are GMOs Dangerous? One Perspective
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other major health organizations, genetically engineered foods are considered as safe as their non-GMO counterparts, and some have been modified to be more nutritious. Extensive research has shown no evidence that currently marketed GMO foods pose a greater risk to human health than conventionally bred foods.
Can I tell if a vegetable is GMO just by looking at it?
No, it is impossible to determine if a vegetable is genetically modified by its appearance, smell, or taste. Genetic modification occurs at the DNA level and does not create a visible difference that a consumer can detect with their senses. Your only reliable sources of information are the official food labels.
