Is Bob's Red Mill Cornstarch Bioengineered? The Verdict
Yes, Bob's Red Mill cornstarch is not bioengineered. The company has a long-standing practice of sourcing ingredients that are free from genetic engineering. The brand relies on detailed inquiries with their suppliers to verify growing practices and seed sources, ensuring the final product meets their strict non-GMO standards. This commitment is a core part of their brand identity, which emphasizes high-quality, natural ingredients for health-conscious consumers.
What does "non-GMO" mean?
"GMO" stands for genetically modified organism. A non-GMO product is made without the use of genetic engineering techniques that would not be possible through traditional breeding or found in nature. In the United States, the USDA has also introduced a Bioengineered (BE) Food Disclosure Standard, which mandates labeling for foods that contain detectable genetic material from these techniques. However, non-GMO status, like that of Bob's Red Mill, is often a voluntary standard that is verified by third-party organizations like the Non-GMO Project. The Non-GMO Project has strict standards, including testing and traceability, to ensure ingredients meet the criteria for avoidance of genetic engineering.
Bob's Red Mill Sourcing and Standards
Bob's Red Mill takes a proactive approach to sourcing ingredients. They work directly with farmers and suppliers to ensure their ingredients, including corn, are not genetically engineered. While their cornstarch may not carry a specific third-party verification seal like the Non-GMO Project on every package, the company website confirms their ingredients are sourced from non-GMO suppliers and produced without bioengineering. For many consumers, the brand's reputation for quality and transparency serves as a reliable indicator.
The difference between bioengineered and non-GMO labels
The terms "bioengineered" (BE) and "non-GMO" can be confusing, but they refer to different labeling systems in the U.S.
| Feature | Bioengineered (BE) Labeling | Non-GMO Labeling (e.g., Non-GMO Project) |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Body | USDA (National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard) | Non-profit organizations (e.g., The Non-GMO Project) |
| Mandatory/Voluntary | Mandatory for foods with detectable BE genetic material | Voluntary, brand-driven certification |
| Definition | Contains genetic material modified via in vitro techniques not found in nature or conventional breeding | A product has been evaluated to meet a rigorous standard for GMO avoidance |
| Threshold | Requires disclosure for detectable amounts, though highly refined ingredients may be exempt. | Less than 0.9% GMO content required for human food ingredients. |
| Refined Ingredients | May be exempt if the BE material is not detectable in the final product (e.g., some corn oils or starches). | Non-GMO Project standards address ingredients that may not have detectable GMO DNA, such as highly refined products. |
| Indicator | A round symbol with "bioengineered" text, a QR code, or text stating "bioengineered" or "derived from bioengineering". | The distinctive butterfly logo. |
Why the distinction matters
For shoppers seeking complete avoidance of genetically engineered ingredients, understanding the difference is key. The mandatory USDA BE label has exemptions for highly refined ingredients like cornstarch if the genetic material is no longer detectable. This means a cornstarch derived from a BE corn crop could potentially be sold without a BE label. However, Bob's Red Mill's commitment to using only non-GMO corn from the outset removes this ambiguity for their product. The non-GMO standard is often seen as more comprehensive because it focuses on the sourcing and processing, aiming for the lowest possible threshold of GMO presence.
How to identify non-bioengineered products
Here are some tips for consumers who want to ensure their products are not bioengineered:
- Look for certification seals: The Non-GMO Project Verified seal is a reliable indicator that a product meets a rigorous third-party standard for avoiding GMOs.
- Check for organic certification: All certified organic foods are also considered non-GMO, as organic standards prohibit the use of genetically engineered ingredients.
- Read ingredient lists: Highly processed items like cornstarch, corn oil, and soy derivatives are often sourced from genetically engineered crops unless otherwise specified. Checking for labels or manufacturer statements is important.
- Research the brand: As with Bob's Red Mill, many brands openly share their ingredient sourcing policies on their websites, offering transparency beyond what is required by law.
- Consider alternatives: For those who prefer to avoid corn entirely due to prevalence of GMO crops, starches from other sources like tapioca or arrowroot are excellent non-GMO options for thickening.
Conclusion
Bob's Red Mill cornstarch is not bioengineered, a position that aligns with the company's broader mission for natural and high-quality ingredients. While the company's non-GMO claim isn't always tied to a third-party seal on the cornstarch packaging, their official statements confirm that the corn is sourced from non-GMO suppliers. This provides assurance for consumers looking for a product free from modern genetic engineering. For maximum confidence, consumers can look for brands with transparent sourcing policies or those that carry third-party non-GMO verification marks like the Non-GMO Project's butterfly logo. Ultimately, Bob's Red Mill's cornstarch remains a reliable choice for those seeking non-bioengineered ingredients in their kitchen.
