Understanding the Bob's Red Mill Non-GMO Policy
Bob's Red Mill has been a long-standing proponent of wholesome, non-genetically engineered foods. The company has a transparent policy rooted in sourcing ingredients that have not been modified through genetic engineering. This commitment extends from the farm to the finished product, with strict internal and third-party verification processes in place. The company’s Non-GMO policy is built on two primary pillars: sourcing identity-preserved, non-GMO seeds and participating in the Non-GMO Project for independent verification.
The 'Sourced Non-GMO Pledge' and Non-GMO Project Verification
In 2017, Bob's Red Mill began adding a "Sourced Non-GMO Pledge" emblem to its packaging to increase transparency for consumers. This pledge indicates that all ingredients sourced for a product have been declared by their suppliers to have been made without the use of bioengineering. In addition to this pledge, many products are also Non-GMO Project Verified. The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization that offers independent verification for products made in compliance with their rigorous standards. Products bearing the official butterfly label are made from ingredients produced according to these standards, with a detailed identity preservation system to track materials and prevent commingling with unverified ingredients.
The Difference Between 'Sourced Non-GMO' and Non-GMO Project Verified
While the goal is always to provide non-GMO products, not every item carries the Non-GMO Project Verified label. Some products containing ingredients like corn, soy, or dairy may not be officially verified due to regulatory structures or proprietary information that suppliers cannot share with the Non-GMO Project. For these unverified products, the company relies on its internal food safety programs and annual documentation from vendors confirming that ingredients are sourced without bioengineering. The Sourced Non-GMO Pledge is a broader company-wide commitment, whereas the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is a product-specific third-party certification.
Organic Flour and Non-GMO Assurance
For consumers seeking the highest assurance of non-GMO ingredients, Bob's Red Mill also offers a wide range of certified organic flours. The USDA Organic certification explicitly prohibits the use of genetic engineering in its production standards. This means any flour carrying the green and white USDA Organic label is, by definition, also non-GMO. Choosing an organic flour, such as their Organic Unbleached White All-Purpose Flour, can provide extra peace of mind. It's important to remember that while all organic flour is non-GMO, not all non-GMO flour is organic. The non-GMO label does not regulate the use of pesticides or herbicides, unlike the organic standard.
The Risk of Cross-Contamination
While Bob's Red Mill is committed to sourcing non-GMO seeds, some risks remain. Wind drift and pollinators can potentially cause cross-contamination from nearby fields. However, the company has several mitigating measures in place:
- Identity Preservation: Ingredients are tracked from receiving through processing to prevent mixing with unverified materials.
- Dedicated Facilities: A completely separate and dedicated gluten-free facility ensures that products maintain their purity and are not exposed to non-gluten-free products.
- Stringent Testing: The company uses Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) testing on incoming and finished products to ensure they meet quality and purity standards.
Bob's Red Mill actively addresses the potential for cross-contamination with robust quality control measures and facility management.
Label Comparison: How to Identify Non-GMO Flour
Understanding the different labels can help you make an informed choice at the grocery store. Look for these key signs on Bob's Red Mill packaging:
- Non-GMO Project Verified Seal: The most definitive indicator of third-party verification for non-GMO status. This black and white butterfly logo signifies that the product's ingredients have been tested and verified to meet the Non-GMO Project's rigorous standards.
- Sourced Non-GMO Pledge: An emblem used by Bob's Red Mill on products where independent verification isn't feasible but the company has documented assurance from suppliers.
- USDA Organic Seal: The green and white logo indicates a product is Certified Organic, which automatically makes it non-GMO under USDA regulations.
Comparison Table: Non-GMO vs. Organic Flour
| Feature | Bob's Red Mill Non-GMO (Not Certified Organic) | Bob's Red Mill Organic (USDA Certified) |
|---|---|---|
| Genetic Engineering | Prohibited in sourcing; relies on supplier documentation and Non-GMO Project standards. | Prohibited under USDA regulations. |
| Pesticides & Herbicides | May be used in farming of ingredients. | Prohibited under USDA standards. |
| Third-Party Verification | May have the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. | Has the USDA Organic seal, which includes non-GMO standards. |
| Labeling | May use the Non-GMO Project butterfly or the 'Sourced Non-GMO Pledge' emblem. | Displays the green and white USDA Organic seal. |
| Assurance Level | Strong assurance for many products; relies on company and supplier documentation for others. | Highest level of assurance regarding both non-GMO status and prohibition of synthetic chemicals. |
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Yes, the vast majority of Bob's Red Mill flours are non-GMO, reflecting the company's long-standing commitment to sourcing ingredients free from genetic modification. The company's participation in the Non-GMO Project means that many products carry the recognizable butterfly seal, offering independent verification. For items not certified by the Non-GMO Project, the company's internal "Sourced Non-GMO Pledge" and quality control processes provide assurance. If your goal is to be absolutely certain of non-GMO status and to avoid pesticides and herbicides, choosing one of Bob's Red Mill's USDA Certified Organic flours is the most robust option, as the organic standard explicitly prohibits genetic engineering. By understanding the different labels and the company's verification processes, consumers can confidently select the right Bob's Red Mill flour for their needs. For more details on Bob's Red Mill's quality and sourcing, visit their official website.
Note: While cross-contamination from wind drift is a possibility, Bob's Red Mill employs robust tracking and segregation procedures to minimize this risk.
