What Does Bioengineered Mean in the Context of Hershey's?
"Bioengineered" (BE) is the term used under the U.S. National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard to denote products containing detectable genetic material from a bioengineered crop. For ingredients derived from a bioengineered source, but where the modified genetic material is no longer detectable (e.g., highly refined ingredients), the label states "ingredient(s) derived from a bioengineered source". Hershey's uses this labeling on many of its product packages, often through a QR code or a logo, to comply with federal regulations.
It's important to understand the distinction between ingredients that are bioengineered and those simply derived from a bioengineered source. Ingredients like soy lecithin or sugar from genetically modified sugar beets, which are common in the food industry, are highly refined, and the modified DNA is often not detectable in the final product. In these cases, the package will reflect that the ingredient is derived from a bioengineered source. Products like milk chocolate may contain soy lecithin, a common emulsifier, derived from genetically modified soy.
Hershey's Transition to Simpler Ingredients
In response to growing consumer demand for more natural ingredients and greater transparency, Hershey's made a significant shift in 2015. The company announced its commitment to transition some of its most popular chocolate brands, including the iconic Hershey's Kisses Milk Chocolates and Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bars, to simpler, non-GMO ingredients. This initiative involved replacing ingredients like genetically modified sugar and soy lecithin with non-GMO versions. The company also removed artificial flavors like vanillin in favor of natural flavors.
This move was largely driven by pressure from consumer advocacy groups and increased public scrutiny regarding the source and processing of food ingredients. The company has emphasized its commitment to responding to consumer interests while ensuring product quality and safety. However, this transition has not applied to all of its products. While the company has been active in providing non-GMO and organic options for various products, some popular candies and newer lines still contain bioengineered ingredients.
Decoding Bioengineered and Non-GMO Labels
For consumers, navigating food labels can be confusing. The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requires that companies disclose the presence of bioengineered ingredients. This can be done in several ways:
- A text statement: "Contains a bioengineered food ingredient" or "Ingredient(s) derived from a bioengineered source".
- A USDA-specified logo: A symbol indicating the presence of bioengineered ingredients.
- A QR code: Scanning the code with a smartphone directs consumers to a website with detailed ingredient information.
For those seeking to avoid bioengineered ingredients, looking for third-party certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified label or USDA Organic certification is a reliable method. Hershey's offers several products with these certifications, such as barkTHINS snacking chocolate and Hershey's Simply 5 Syrup, catering to different consumer preferences.
Why Are Some Hershey's Products Still Bioengineered?
The decision to use bioengineered ingredients often comes down to cost and functionality for food manufacturers. Ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, soy lecithin, and sugar from genetically modified sugar beets can be less expensive to source and provide certain functional benefits in confectionery products. Hershey's master chocolatier has acknowledged that reformulating products to use non-GMO alternatives while maintaining the expected flavor and texture can be challenging.
Consumer preference and market trends also play a role. While demand for non-GMO products is strong, a large portion of the market is not primarily focused on this aspect. By offering a range of products, some non-GMO and some containing bioengineered ingredients, Hershey's can address a wider audience.
Bioengineered vs. Non-GMO: What's the Difference?
| Feature | Bioengineered (BE) Ingredients | Non-GMO Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Contains detectable genetic material from a bioengineered crop, or is derived from one. | Does not contain genetically modified organisms. |
| Labeling | Requires disclosure under the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (text, logo, or QR code). | Often certified by a third party, such as the Non-GMO Project. |
| Examples in Hershey's | Soy lecithin, sugar, and corn syrup in some product lines. | Sugar (cane sugar), natural flavors, and organic cocoa in select products like Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar and Kisses (since 2015). |
| Sourcing | Can involve sourcing from crops like genetically modified soy or sugar beets. | Sourced from crops that are not genetically modified. |
Conclusion
The question of whether Hershey's is bioengineered has a nuanced answer. While the company has taken proactive steps to transition some of its most popular products, like the classic Milk Chocolate Bar and Kisses, to simpler, non-GMO ingredients, many of its other confectionery items still contain components derived from bioengineered sources. Consumers can use the mandatory labeling on product packages, such as the SmartLabel QR codes, to determine the bioengineered status of a specific item. For those who prefer to avoid genetically modified ingredients entirely, Hershey's offers a selection of Non-GMO Project Verified and USDA Organic certified products. Ultimately, understanding the company's ingredient policies and new labeling regulations empowers consumers to make informed dietary choices.
Authoritative Outbound Link
For more detailed information on Hershey's ingredients and their position on genetically modified foods, visit The Hershey Company's official ingredients page.
