Understanding the Non-GMO Project Verified Process
For manufacturers, suppliers, and producers, obtaining the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is a valuable step towards gaining consumer trust and market access. The process is a third-party verification system designed to ensure products meet the Non-GMO Project Standard, which is built on a comprehensive and evolving set of guidelines for GMO avoidance. Unlike the USDA Organic certification, which has broader requirements, Non-GMO Project Verification focuses specifically on genetically engineered organisms and their derivatives. This distinction means that while all organic products must be non-GMO, not all non-GMO products are organic.
The verification process is overseen by the Non-GMO Project and implemented by independent Technical Administrators (TAs) who evaluate products against the Standard. This includes a detailed review of ingredients, supply chain practices, and manufacturing facilities.
Step 1: Engage with a Technical Administrator (TA)
The first step to get non-GMO verified is to choose and engage with one of the Non-GMO Project's independent Technical Administrators, such as SCS Global Services or FoodChain ID Technical Services. The TA acts as a third-party auditor, guiding you through the verification process. It's recommended to research each TA, as they may have different fee structures and specialties.
- Application: Submit a formal application to your chosen TA. This typically involves providing information about your company, the product(s) you wish to verify, and your manufacturing facilities.
- Product Scope: The TA will assess the scope of the evaluation, which is influenced by the number of products and the complexity of their formulations.
- Quote: Based on the initial assessment, the TA will provide a quote for the verification services.
Step 2: Product Evaluation and Risk Assessment
The TA will then perform a thorough evaluation of your products, focusing on the formulation and ingredients. This stage involves a risk assessment to classify each ingredient based on its likelihood of being derived from a GMO.
- High-Risk Ingredients: These are derived from crops for which GM counterparts are widely commercially available, such as corn, soy, canola, and their derivatives. These ingredients often require ongoing testing.
- Monitored-Risk Ingredients: These are derived from crops where GM counterparts exist but are not yet widely available commercially.
- Low-Risk Ingredients: These are derived from organisms where GM varieties are not prevalent.
- Non-Risk Ingredients: These are not biological organisms and therefore not susceptible to genetic modification, such as salt and water.
For high-risk ingredients, you must demonstrate compliance. This can be done by sourcing verified ingredients, providing Identity Preservation certificates, or submitting testing plans from an approved lab.
Step 3: Implement Traceability and Segregation Protocols
To prevent contamination, especially in facilities handling both GMO and non-GMO materials, stringent procedures are required.
- Traceability: You must establish systems to trace each lot of verified product back to its specific compliant ingredients.
- Segregation: Protocols must be in place to separate compliant and non-compliant materials during storage, processing, and packaging.
- Clean-out Procedures: Manufacturing equipment must be properly cleaned between runs to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Annual Audits and Renewals
Verification is not a one-time event; it must be renewed annually to ensure ongoing compliance with the Non-GMO Project Standard.
- Annual Review: Your TA will conduct a review of your product and facilities to confirm continued adherence to the Standard.
- Certificate of Verification (COV): Upon successful completion of the review, you will receive an updated COV.
- Renewal Fees: Renewal fees apply and are managed by the TA.
Comparison: Organic vs. Non-GMO Verification
| Feature | Non-GMO Project Verified | USDA Certified Organic |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Single-attribute; focuses solely on GMO avoidance. | Holistic; includes GMO avoidance, synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and animal welfare standards. |
| GMO Testing | Requires quantitative testing for major, testable, high-risk ingredients. | Relies on process-based system; does not require GMO testing. |
| Regulation | Governed by the nonprofit Non-GMO Project through independent TAs. | Federal program overseen by the USDA. |
| Overlap | Not all Non-GMO products are organic. | All organic products must be non-GMO. |
| Cost | Varies based on product complexity and number of high-risk ingredients. | Varies based on the scope of farming/production; includes a three-year transition period. |
Finalizing Your Verification
After successfully passing the evaluation and audit, and signing the licensing agreement with the Non-GMO Project, you will be authorized to use the Butterfly logo. This mark is a powerful marketing tool, instantly recognizable to consumers seeking products made with GMO avoidance in mind. The Non-GMO Project also offers marketing support to help brands leverage their verification status.
Conclusion
Securing the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is a rigorous yet highly rewarding process for companies. By engaging with a Technical Administrator, meticulously evaluating product formulations, implementing robust segregation and traceability protocols, and committing to annual audits, you can achieve this valuable third-party verification. The effort not only meets the growing consumer and retailer demand for non-GMO products but also strengthens brand reputation and demonstrates a commitment to transparency and quality within the food supply chain.
Need help getting started?
The Non-GMO Project has a dedicated team to assist with initial inquiries and applications. To connect with a Business Development representative, you can visit their official website at nongmoproject.org/get-non-gmo-verified/ and fill out the get started form or review their resources.
