Applegate, a prominent brand in the natural and organic meat sector, is frequently praised for its high standards and clear labeling. However, for consumers concerned about genetically modified organisms (GMOs), understanding the nuances of Applegate's product lines is essential. While the company has taken a strong stance against GMOs, the specific labeling—"Organic" versus "Natural"—provides different levels of assurance regarding genetically engineered ingredients.
The Difference Between 'Applegate Naturals' and 'Applegate Organics'
Understanding the distinction between Applegate's two primary product categories is the key to determining the non-GMO status of their bacon. Both lines are committed to avoiding artificial ingredients, but they differ significantly in their regulations regarding GMOs, particularly in animal feed.
Applegate Naturals
- Internal Standard: The 'Natural' label signifies that products are made without GMO ingredients, artificial ingredients, or chemical nitrates/nitrites, and come from animals raised without antibiotics.
- Ingredient Focus: While the product ingredients themselves do not contain GMOs, the standard for the
Naturalsline does not have the same third-party verification for animal feed as theOrganicsline. - Non-GMO Project Status: In 2016, Applegate initiated the process for Non-GMO Project Verification across its entire supply chain, a commitment that was especially significant for its
Naturalproducts. However, the website still recommends checking for the specific seal or choosing theOrganicline for certainty.
Applegate Organics
- USDA Certified Organic: This is the most definitive label for non-GMO claims. USDA Organic standards explicitly prohibit the use of genetically engineered ingredients, which includes the feed given to the animals.
- Third-Party Verification: Products in this line, like Applegate Organics® Sunday Bacon, are certified organic by organizations such as Quality Assurance International. This certification is a rigorous, third-party verified process that guarantees GMO ingredients are avoided at every step.
- Animal Feed: For certified organic products, the feed given to the hogs must also be organic, which by definition means it cannot be genetically modified.
How Applegate Manages GMOs in the Supply Chain
Applegate has long been at the forefront of the clean food movement, with a comprehensive mission statement that addresses genetically modified ingredients.
- Initial Policy: In 2016, Applegate announced its plan to remove GMOs from its entire supply chain, including problematic animal feed, and work towards Non-GMO Project Verification. This was a major step, as animal feed crops like corn and soy are often genetically modified.
- Verification Process: The Non-GMO Project verification process for some products involves ongoing testing of ingredients, facility inspections, and annual audits. This provides a higher level of assurance than simply relying on the manufacturer's own standards.
- Continuous Improvement: The company's commitment goes beyond just ingredients. They also advocate for stronger organic standards and have quantified their impact in reports, reflecting a transparent approach to their mission.
Comparison: Applegate Naturals vs. Applegate Organics Bacon
| Feature | Applegate Naturals Bacon | Applegate Organics Bacon |
|---|---|---|
| GMO Ingredients | Free of GMO ingredients in the product itself. | Free of GMO ingredients in both the product and animal feed. |
| Animal Feed | Animals are raised on a vegetarian diet, but the feed may not be certified non-GMO unless explicitly verified. | Animals are fed a certified organic vegetarian diet, which is inherently non-GMO. |
| Third-Party Verification | May or may not carry the Non-GMO Project Verified seal; verification process was initiated but check packaging. | Always carries the USDA Organic seal, which includes non-GMO standards. |
| Antibiotics/Hormones | No antibiotics or added hormones ever. | No antibiotics or added hormones ever. |
| Nitrates/Nitrites | No chemical nitrates or nitrites added. | No chemical nitrates or nitrites added. |
Conclusion: Which Applegate Bacon is Non-GMO?
So, is Applegate bacon non-GMO? All Applegate bacon is made without genetically modified ingredients added directly to the product. However, the most robust guarantee of non-GMO status, especially regarding animal feed, comes from purchasing Applegate's USDA-certified Organic bacon. This line is subject to the strict federal regulations of the National Organic Program, which mandates the avoidance of all genetically engineered products throughout the production process. While the Naturals line is also made without direct GMO ingredients, relying on the Organics label or the Non-GMO Project Verified seal provides the highest level of assurance for consumers seeking to completely avoid GMOs. For the latest details, consumers should always read product packaging carefully.
What to Look for When Buying Applegate Bacon
To ensure your Applegate bacon aligns with your non-GMO preferences, there are a few key things to look for on the package:
- Check for the USDA Organic Seal: If the product packaging displays the green and white USDA Organic seal, you can be confident that the bacon and the feed used to raise the animal are non-GMO.
- Look for the Non-GMO Project Verified Label: Some Applegate products may carry the Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly seal. This third-party verification provides a strong assurance of GMO avoidance.
- Read the Product Name: Pay attention to whether the product name includes "Organics" versus "Naturals". The "Organics" line is the gold standard for avoiding GMOs.
- Review the Ingredients List: The ingredient list on the back of the package will confirm if any ingredients typically derived from GMO crops, like cane sugar in non-organic products, have been sourced carefully.
By following these steps, consumers can make an informed choice and feel confident about their bacon purchase.
Applegate's Official Website provides more information on their ingredient standards.
The Role of Animal Feed in Non-GMO Products
For meat products like bacon, the most significant source of potential GMO contamination is the animal's feed. As a majority of corn and soybeans are genetically modified in the United States, brands committed to a non-GMO standard must carefully source their animal feed. This is a major factor differentiating Applegate's Organic products, where the feed is certified organic and therefore non-GMO, from their Natural line, which relies on the brand's internal standards for avoidance. This attention to the entire supply chain, including the farm where the animals are raised, is a critical step for companies committed to avoiding GMOs.
