Understanding GMOs and Food Labeling
A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering in a lab. This differs from traditional selective breeding. GMOs are widely used in the food supply, with many processed foods in the U.S. containing GMO-derived ingredients. Common GMO crops include corn, soybeans, canola, and sugar beets. Ingredients from these crops, such as corn starch, canola oil, and sugar, are found in many processed foods, including macaroni and cheese.
The U.S. has a National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requiring the labeling of foods with detectable modified genetic material. However, this standard uses the term “bioengineered” (BE) and exempts highly refined ingredients where genetic material is undetectable. This means some products derived from GMO crops may not be labeled as BE. For consumers avoiding GMOs, certifications like Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic are more reliable, as organic standards prohibit GMOs.
Kraft Original vs. Organic: Ingredient Differences
The GMO status of Kraft Mac and Cheese depends on the specific product. The standard Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese in the blue box often includes ingredients from common GMO crops like corn and canola.
Likely GMO-derived ingredients in Kraft Original include:
- Corn Syrup Solids and Corn Starch, often from GM corn.
- Canola Oil, as most U.S. canola is GM.
- Citric Acid and Lactic Acid, potentially made with GM microorganisms.
- Dairy ingredients from cows fed GM feed.
In contrast, Kraft Heinz offers an organic version certified by the USDA. USDA Certified Organic products are made without genetically engineered ingredients. This organic line uses ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides or genetic modification.
| Feature | Kraft Original Mac & Cheese | Kraft Organic Mac & Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| GMO Status | Likely contains ingredients from GMO-derived crops. | Non-GMO (as a requirement of organic certification). |
| Labeling | May not carry a “Bioengineered” label due to highly refined ingredients. | Features the USDA Certified Organic seal. |
| Ingredient Sourcing | Ingredients like corn starch, corn syrup solids, and canola oil are often derived from GMO crops. | Ingredients are sourced from crops grown without synthetic pesticides or genetic engineering. |
| Colors | Formerly used artificial colors, now uses natural colorants like annatto and paprika. | Uses natural colorants like annatto and paprika, as synthetic colors are prohibited. |
| Third-Party Verification | Not certified by Non-GMO Project. | Certified organic, providing robust non-GMO verification. |
Ingredient Changes and Labeling History
Kraft has modified its mac and cheese recipe over time. In 2016, artificial preservatives, flavors, and synthetic colors were removed from the Original version, replaced with natural colorings like paprika and annatto. While these changes addressed some concerns, ingredients from GM crops were not removed. This led to a product perceived as healthier but still containing potential GMO-derived components.
Labeling has also been controversial. A 2013 incident involved a box of U.S. Kraft Mac & Cheese in the UK incorrectly labeled as containing genetically modified wheat. Kraft stated this was a distributor error.
In conclusion, to determine "Is Kraft mac and cheese non-GMO?", consumers need to look at the specific product. The Original Kraft Mac and Cheese likely contains ingredients derived from GM corn and canola, even without a "bioengineered" label due to ingredient refinement. The most reliable non-GMO option is Kraft's USDA Certified Organic mac and cheese. For a non-GMO diet, checking for this organic label is key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the blue box Kraft Mac & Cheese contain GMOs? A: The classic blue box of Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese likely contains ingredients derived from genetically modified crops, such as corn starch and canola oil.
Q: Is there a non-GMO version of Kraft Mac and Cheese? A: Yes, Kraft Heinz produces a line of USDA Certified Organic macaroni and cheese products, which are, by definition, non-GMO.
Q: What does the 'Bioengineered' label on some foods mean? A: The 'Bioengineered' (BE) label is a federal standard in the US that indicates a food contains detectable genetic material that has been modified using certain lab techniques.
Q: Why might a food with GMO ingredients not have a 'Bioengineered' label? A: Highly refined ingredients derived from GMO crops, like some oils or starches, may not contain detectable genetic material and therefore do not require the 'Bioengineered' label.
Q: What is the difference between non-GMO and organic? A: The non-GMO label means a food is produced without genetically engineered ingredients. The organic label is more comprehensive, meaning it is also produced without synthetic pesticides and prohibits GMOs entirely.
Q: What ingredients in conventional Kraft Mac and Cheese are likely GMO-derived? A: Ingredients such as corn syrup solids, corn starch, canola oil, citric acid, and lactic acid are commonly derived from genetically modified sources.
Q: How can I be certain a product is non-GMO? A: To be certain, look for the USDA Certified Organic label or the Non-GMO Project Verified label, as these have stringent requirements for ingredient sourcing.
