Is Modelo beer non-GMO? Answering the Brewing Question

According to a 2016 report from Greenpeace Mexico, Grupo Modelo, the company that produces Modelo beer, uses genetically modified grains in its brewing process. This report is a significant detail in the ongoing consumer query: Is Modelo beer non-GMO, and what does this mean for today's drinkers concerned about their food sources?

Quick Summary

Reports from Greenpeace and analyses of Modelo's ingredients raise questions about the beer's non-GMO status. Modelo uses non-malted cereals like corn, a common source for genetically modified crops in commercial brewing.

Key Points

• No Official Non-GMO Claim: Modelo's producer, Grupo Modelo, has not made any official public claim that their beer is non-GMO, unlike many craft brewers.

• Greenpeace Mexico Cited GMOs: A 2016 Greenpeace report identified Grupo Modelo as using genetically modified grains, specifically mentioning Modelo beer.

• Uses Corn Adjuncts: Modelo ingredients lists include "non-malted cereals" or "corn," which is a widely grown genetically modified crop.

• Lack of Mandatory Labeling: In the US, there is no federal mandate for breweries to disclose GMO ingredients, which allows large commercial brewers to avoid the issue.

• Seek Certified Alternatives: The most reliable way to find non-GMO beer is to look for certified products with seals like "Non-GMO Project Verified" or USDA Organic.

The Ingredients of Modelo and the GMO Question

Modelo, a popular Mexican lager, is brewed by Grupo Modelo, which is now a part of AB InBev. Like many large-scale commercial breweries, it includes more than just the four traditional ingredients of water, barley, hops, and yeast. Specific Modelo products list ingredients such as "non-malted cereals" or "corn". Corn is a key area of concern for those interested in non-GMO products, as much of the world's corn supply is genetically modified. The use of adjunct grains like corn allows brewers to lower costs and produce a lighter, crisper finish. However, without a non-GMO verification, consumers cannot be certain of the corn's origin.

The 2016 Greenpeace Report on Mexican Beers

In 2016, Greenpeace Mexico published a report as part of its “Do You Know What You Eat” campaign. The report specifically named several Grupo Modelo beers, including Modelo, stating they were brewed with genetically modified grains. This report generated significant discussion and has been cited by other outlets highlighting the GMO issue in the beverage industry. While the brewing company did not issue a public non-GMO guarantee in response, its silence on the matter and continued use of adjuncts like corn leave the door open for speculation. For many consumers, the absence of a non-GMO label, combined with the Greenpeace findings, is reason enough to doubt its status.

Why the Lack of a Non-GMO Label Matters

Unlike many craft brewers who proudly market their products as non-GMO, multinational corporations often do not. This is partly due to the high cost of sourcing and verifying a non-GMO supply chain, especially for crops like corn. The decision to use cheaper, conventionally-sourced ingredients is often driven by profit margins. In the United States, there is no federal requirement for breweries to label products containing GMO ingredients. This lack of transparency means consumers must rely on third-party reports or independent research to make informed decisions. For a beer like Modelo, the lack of an official non-GMO claim from the producer, combined with credible reports of GMO ingredient usage, leads to the strong conclusion that it is likely not non-GMO.

Seeking Non-GMO Alternatives

For consumers seeking a beer without genetically modified ingredients, there are several pathways to consider. The most reliable is to look for products with a "Non-GMO Project Verified" label, a third-party certification that confirms the product's non-GMO status. Certified Organic beers are also legally required to be produced without GMO ingredients. Finally, supporting local craft breweries and directly inquiring about their sourcing can provide clearer answers.

Reliable ways to find a non-GMO beer:

• Look for Certification: Search for the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on product packaging.
• Choose Organic: Select beers with a USDA Organic seal, as this certification prohibits GMOs.
• Support Local: Engage with local craft brewers and ask directly about their ingredient sourcing.
• Check Ingredient Lists: If available, check labels for adjuncts like corn syrup or dextrose, which are often derived from GMO sources.

Comparison: Modelo vs. Non-GMO Certified Beer

Feature	Modelo (Grupo Modelo)	Certified Non-GMO Beer (e.g., specific craft beers)
Non-GMO Claim	No official public claim	Explicitly verified and often prominently displayed
Ingredients	Water, barley malt, non-malted cereals (corn), hops	Water, non-GMO barley malt, non-GMO hops, yeast
Use of Adjuncts	Uses corn for flavor and cost efficiency	Often uses only traditional, non-GMO grains
Third-Party Verification	Cited by Greenpeace for using GMOs	Verified by independent organizations like the Non-GMO Project
Consumer Assurance	Low due to lack of transparency and past reports	High due to verification and explicit labeling

Conclusion: Uncertainty and Consumer Choice

The question "Is Modelo beer non-GMO?" does not have a definitive, public-facing answer from Grupo Modelo or Constellation Brands. However, based on reports from organizations like Greenpeace and an understanding of large-scale commercial brewing practices, the likelihood of Modelo containing GMO ingredients is high. The brewery uses adjuncts like corn, a crop commonly sourced from genetically modified varieties in North America. For consumers prioritizing non-GMO products, the lack of transparency should be a red flag. Those who wish to avoid GMOs should seek out alternatives that carry official third-party certifications like the "Non-GMO Project Verified" label or are certified organic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Modelo beer contain GMOs?

Based on reports from Greenpeace Mexico and Modelo's use of non-malted cereals like corn, it is highly likely to contain GMO ingredients, though the company has not issued a public statement confirming or denying this.

What is the source of the GMO claim against Modelo?

The primary source of the claim comes from a 2016 report published by Greenpeace Mexico, which found that Grupo Modelo, the parent company, used genetically modified grains.

Does Modelo explicitly state it is non-GMO?

No, Modelo does not carry a non-GMO label or make an official claim. This lack of transparency is a key reason for consumer uncertainty.

What ingredient in Modelo is likely genetically modified?

The ingredient most often cited as potentially genetically modified is corn (or "non-malted cereals"), a common and cost-effective adjunct used in commercial brewing.

How can I find a beer that is definitely non-GMO?

For certainty, look for products that carry a Non-GMO Project Verified certification, are USDA Organic certified, or come from small craft breweries that explicitly state their non-GMO status.

Why don't major beer companies like Modelo guarantee non-GMO ingredients?

Sourcing and verifying a fully non-GMO supply chain for large-scale production, especially for crops like corn, can be complex and more expensive than using conventional ingredients.

What are the core ingredients in Modelo beer?

The core ingredients in Modelo beer are water, barley malt, non-malted cereals (corn), and hops.