Hershey's Cocoa and the Non-GMO Project
For many years, consumer demand for non-GMO food products has been a powerful force shaping the food industry. The Hershey Company has responded to this call for transparency, particularly regarding its cocoa products. The company's official position, as evidenced by its Frequently Asked Questions and position statements, confirms that its canned cocoa is Non-GMO Project Verified. This verification is a third-party certification that confirms the product contains no ingredients from genetically engineered sources.
This commitment is a key part of a broader shift towards simpler ingredients within the company's portfolio. While cocoa beans are not commonly genetically modified, other ingredients in chocolate products, such as sugar and soy lecithin, historically have been derived from GMO crops. This is why the Non-GMO Project Verification is significant for Hershey's cocoa, as it confirms that any associated processing aids or minor ingredients also meet non-GMO standards.
How to Identify Non-GMO Hershey Cocoa
Identifying the Non-GMO Project Verified Hershey cocoa is straightforward. The certification is indicated by the Non-GMO Project's "butterfly" logo on the product packaging.
- Look for the label: The front of the canister will feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal, providing immediate assurance. You can also look for official statements on Hershey's website.
- Read the ingredients: In addition to the official seal, the label will also list the ingredients. In the case of Hershey's Natural Unsweetened Cocoa, the ingredient list is short and simple: 100% cacao.
- Check online listings: Many grocery and online retailers, like Tom Thumb and Vons, also list the Non-GMO Project Verified status in their product descriptions, making it easy to confirm before you buy.
The Difference Between Hershey's Natural and Dutch-Processed Cocoa
It's important to distinguish between different types of cocoa when considering its non-GMO status, though Hershey's has verified its canned cocoa line. The primary difference lies in how the cocoa is processed, not its genetic makeup.
Comparison of Cocoa Types
| Feature | Hershey's Natural Unsweetened Cocoa | Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa (Dutch-Processed) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-GMO Status | Non-GMO Project Verified | The Special Dark is a blend and may contain other ingredients, so verification status can differ. Check the specific package. |
| Processing | Cacao beans are roasted and ground with no alkalization. | Cacao beans are treated with an alkaline solution to reduce acidity. |
| Flavor | Strong, slightly acidic chocolate flavor. Best in recipes calling for baking soda. | Milder, less acidic, and darker in color. Best in recipes with baking powder. |
| Baking Uses | Recipes where it reacts with baking soda to leaven the product, such as classic devil's food cake. | Recipes that require a smoother, richer flavor and don't rely on leavening from baking soda, like many modern brownie recipes. |
The Broader Picture of Hershey's Non-GMO Stance
Hershey's has responded to public pressure over the years by systematically transitioning popular products to simpler, non-GMO ingredients. This includes iconic brands like Milk Chocolate Bars and Kisses, which in 2015 were transitioned to use non-GMO sugar and soy lecithin. The company's commitment goes beyond cocoa, incorporating a broader strategy of transparency and clean labels. However, this is not a company-wide blanket policy covering all products. Consumers seeking non-GMO status must check individual product labels, even within the Hershey brand. The focus on certified-sustainable cocoa and responsible sourcing further underlines the company's move toward addressing consumer concerns beyond just genetic modification.
Conclusion
For consumers asking "is Hershey cocoa non-GMO?", the answer is a reassuring yes, specifically for its canned natural unsweetened cocoa, which carries the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. This certification, achieved partly in response to strong consumer demand, confirms that the product is free from ingredients derived from genetically engineered sources. While Hershey has made strides to use simpler, non-GMO ingredients in other products as well, verifying individual labels remains the best practice for confident purchasing. Shoppers can confidently use Hershey's canned cocoa in their baking, knowing it aligns with non-GMO standards. This trend demonstrates a significant shift in corporate responsibility, showing that consumer voices can and do influence major food manufacturers.
