The Misconception: Does non-GMO mean glyphosate free?

Over one billion pounds of glyphosate are used worldwide every year, an herbicide found in numerous food products, including some labeled 'non-GMO'. This surprising fact challenges a common consumer assumption and forces us to ask: Does non-GMO mean glyphosate free? The answer is not as simple as you might think.

Quick Summary

The non-GMO label only addresses genetic modification, not the use of pesticides like glyphosate. Non-GMO crops can be conventionally farmed and sprayed with herbicides, including for desiccation prior to harvest.

Key Points

• Non-GMO is not inherently glyphosate-free: A non-GMO label only guarantees the absence of genetic modification, not the prohibition of pesticides or herbicides like glyphosate.

• Pre-harvest desiccation is a key issue: Many non-GMO grain and pulse crops are sprayed with glyphosate before harvest to accelerate drying, leading to potential residue contamination.

• Organic certification prohibits glyphosate: The USDA Certified Organic standard explicitly forbids the use of glyphosate and other synthetic pesticides in production, making it a more reliable choice for avoidance.

• Environmental contamination is possible: Even with organic farming, some level of glyphosate contamination can occur due to environmental drift, although it is likely to be much lower.

• A specific 'Glyphosate Residue Free' label exists: The Detox Project offers a specific certification for products tested to have no detectable glyphosate residue, providing the highest level of assurance.

• Informed choices require understanding all labels: Consumers must understand the differences between Non-GMO, Organic, and Glyphosate Residue Free certifications to make dietary choices based on their priorities.

Decoding the 'Non-GMO' Label

At its core, a non-GMO certification, such as the Non-GMO Project Verified seal, is a statement about the product's genetic material. It signifies that the food product was produced without genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and that the ingredients have been tested for genetic engineering. The verification process is thorough, including testing and traceability protocols, to ensure that the ingredients and the final product are free of genetic modification.

However, this certification does not regulate or prohibit the use of chemical herbicides or pesticides, such as glyphosate. The Non-GMO Project's focus is narrowly defined to exclude genetic modification, leaving the door open for conventional farming practices that can involve synthetic chemicals.

The Problem of Pre-Harvest Desiccation

Perhaps the most significant reason non-GMO does not guarantee glyphosate-free is the practice of pre-harvest desiccation. While many genetically modified crops are engineered to withstand glyphosate spraying throughout their growth cycle, some conventional (non-GMO) crops are sprayed with glyphosate right before harvest. This process kills and dries out the crop, accelerating the harvest timeline and allowing for a more uniform and earlier harvest.

Crops commonly subjected to pre-harvest desiccation include:

• Wheat
• Oats
• Barley
• Lentils
• Beans
• Pulses

This practice can result in high levels of glyphosate residue on these conventionally grown, yet non-GMO, products. Several independent studies have found glyphosate residues in a variety of non-organic grain products.

Organic vs. Non-GMO vs. Glyphosate Residue Free: A Comparison

To better understand the differences, let’s compare the main certifications consumers encounter.

Feature	Non-GMO Project Verified	USDA Certified Organic	The Detox Project's 'Glyphosate Residue Free'
Addresses Genetic Modification?	Yes, specifically prohibits GMOs.	Yes, all organic products are also non-GMO.	Not specifically, but testing ensures the absence of glyphosate often associated with GMOs.
Prohibits Synthetic Pesticides?	No, conventional farming practices are allowed.	Yes, prohibits nearly all synthetic pesticides, including glyphosate.	No, focuses only on the final product’s glyphosate residue.
Tests for Glyphosate Residue?	No, does not test for chemical residues.	Requires some residue testing but can have detectable levels (typically much lower).	Yes, tests final products to ensure no detectable glyphosate residue.
Holistic Farming Standard?	No, single-issue certification focused on GMOs.	Yes, covers environmental stewardship, soil health, and animal welfare.	No, single-issue certification focused on one chemical residue.

Why Certified Organic is a Safer Bet

If avoiding glyphosate is your priority, the USDA Certified Organic label is a more reliable choice than non-GMO. A product bearing the USDA Organic seal must be produced without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, including glyphosate. The certification process is robust, involving annual third-party inspections and strict adherence to organic standards. While environmental contamination can occur, the use of glyphosate in production is strictly prohibited.

For consumers looking for the most stringent assurance, seeking products that are both Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified offers a double layer of protection, although an organic label automatically makes a product non-GMO.

How to Make Truly Informed Choices

Navigating food labels can be confusing. To minimize your exposure to glyphosate and other synthetic chemicals, consider these strategies:

• Prioritize organic for high-risk crops: Focus on buying organic versions of crops that are commonly desiccated with glyphosate, such as oats, wheat, lentils, and chickpeas.
• Look for 'Glyphosate Residue Free' labels: For absolute certainty regarding this specific chemical, seek out products with third-party certification from organizations like The Detox Project. These products have been tested to ensure no detectable residue.
• Consult the Environmental Working Group (EWG): The EWG’s annual "Dirty Dozen" list can help you prioritize which fruits and vegetables to buy organic to minimize pesticide exposure.
• Focus on whole foods: By eating a diet primarily of whole, unprocessed foods and minimizing ultra-processed foods, you can significantly reduce your exposure to potentially contaminated ingredients.
• Support sustainable farming: Buying locally from farmers you trust and who use sustainable practices is an excellent way to ensure the quality of your food.

Conclusion

In summary, the assumption that a non-GMO label means glyphosate-free is incorrect. While it addresses the critical issue of genetic modification, the certification does not prohibit the use of conventional pesticides like glyphosate. Non-GMO crops can, and often are, sprayed with herbicides, particularly for pre-harvest desiccation, leading to chemical residues. For consumers seeking to avoid glyphosate, the USDA Certified Organic label is a far more reliable indicator, as it specifically prohibits the use of the herbicide in production. Understanding the limitations of each label empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your health and nutritional goals.

Learn more about the Non-GMO Project Verified standard here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between Non-GMO and Organic certifications?

The core difference is scope. Non-GMO certification focuses exclusively on the absence of genetically modified ingredients. Organic certification is a holistic standard that prohibits GMOs along with synthetic pesticides, herbicides (including glyphosate), and fertilizers, and also addresses animal welfare and environmental practices.

Can I be certain a non-GMO product is free of glyphosate?

No. A non-GMO label does not provide any assurance regarding glyphosate use. Conventional non-GMO crops, especially grains, can be sprayed with glyphosate, particularly during pre-harvest desiccation.

How do non-GMO crops get contaminated with glyphosate?

Non-GMO crops can be contaminated in two main ways: conventional farmers may spray them with glyphosate as a desiccant to dry them out faster before harvest, or contamination can occur via environmental drift from nearby conventional farms.

If I want to avoid both GMOs and glyphosate, what should I look for?

The most effective way to avoid both is to purchase products with the USDA Certified Organic seal. Since organic standards prohibit both genetic engineering and synthetic herbicides like glyphosate, it is the most comprehensive label. You can also look for the 'Glyphosate Residue Free' label for specific verification of the final product.

Is the 'Glyphosate Residue Free' label regulated by the government?

No, the 'Glyphosate Residue Free' certification is a third-party verification program from The Detox Project. It is not regulated by a governmental body like the USDA.

Are all organic foods automatically glyphosate free?

While organic farming prohibits the use of glyphosate, low levels of contamination can sometimes occur due to environmental factors, such as spray drift from neighboring conventional farms. However, the levels are typically significantly lower than in conventionally produced food.

Which crops are most likely to contain glyphosate residue if not organic?

Grains and legumes are particularly susceptible due to the use of glyphosate as a pre-harvest desiccant. High-risk crops include oats, wheat, lentils, chickpeas, and conventionally grown soy.