Understanding the Non-GMO Cheese Landscape
Choosing non-GMO cheese can be complex because the primary source of genetically modified organisms is not always the milk itself, but the enzyme used in cheesemaking: rennet. A significant portion of modern cheese production, particularly in the U.S., utilizes fermentation-produced chymosin (FPC), a genetically engineered version of rennet. FPC is often vaguely labeled as "microbial rennet" or "vegetable rennet". To select non-GMO cheese, understanding different certifications and carefully reading labels is essential.
The Role of Rennet in Cheesemaking
Rennet is a group of enzymes that coagulates milk into curds and whey. Traditionally, animal rennet came from the stomach lining of young mammals. Alternatives emerged with growing demand and vegetarianism.
Here are the main types:
- Animal Rennet: Derived from calves, this traditional option is non-GMO but not vegetarian.
- Non-GMO Microbial/Vegetable Rennet: Sourced from non-GMO molds, fungi, or plants, this is a vegetarian and non-GMO option.
- Fermentation-Produced Chymosin (FPC): Lab-created using genetically engineered organisms, FPC is the most common rennet in commercial cheese.
Deciphering Labels: Organic vs. Non-GMO Project Verified
USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified are two key certifications for non-GMO cheese. While both exclude GMOs, they have different focuses.
Leading Brands of Non-GMO Cheese
Many brands, both dairy and plant-based, are committed to non-GMO options.
Dairy Brands with Non-GMO Options
Numerous brands offer non-GMO dairy cheeses:
- Organic Valley: Offers a variety of organic (and thus non-GMO) cheeses, often using non-GMO microbial rennet.
- Cabot Cheese: Uses non-GMO vegetable-based rennet.
- Shelburne Farms: Provides Non-GMO Project Verified raw milk cheddar using traditional calf rennet.
- Simply Grassfed: Uses organic animal rennet for non-kosher and non-GMO microbial rennet for kosher cheeses.
- Saputo Cheese USA: Offers a wide range of USDA-certified organic cheeses.
- Cello Cheese: Exclusively uses non-GMO microbial rennet.
- Cedar Grove Cheese: A pioneering third-party verified non-GMO cheesemaker.
Naturally Non-GMO and European Cheeses
Some cheeses are naturally non-GMO or regulated to be so:
- Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and traditional European cheeses (e.g., Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano): PDO/PGI status often requires animal rennet, ensuring they are non-GMO.
- Soft Cheeses: Those coagulated by acid, not rennet, like traditional paneer, cottage cheese, and cream cheese, are naturally non-GMO.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Brands
Several plant-based brands offer non-GMO cheese alternatives:
- Violife: Offers Non-GMO Project Verified vegan cheese alternatives.
- Daiya: Specializes in non-GMO, dairy-free, allergen-free cheeses.
- Miyoko's Creamery: Produces organic, plant-based non-GMO cheeses.
- Follow Your Heart: Offers organic vegan cheeses.
Comparison of Certifications
| Feature | Non-GMO Project Verified | USDA Certified Organic |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Absence of GMOs. | Holistic: farming practices, animal welfare, prohibited substances (including GMOs, pesticides, antibiotics). |
| Verification | Requires testing of major, high-risk ingredients. | Auditing farming practices and Organic System Plan. No specific GMO testing required. |
| Rennet | Prohibits genetically engineered FPC. Allows non-GMO microbial/vegetable or animal rennet. | Prohibits genetically engineered FPC as an "excluded method". |
| Animal Feed | Requires non-GMO or organic feed. | Requires 100% certified organic feed. |
| Scope | Single-issue, focused on GMOs. | Broad, covering many aspects of the food system. |
How to Find Non-GMO Cheese: Shopping Tips
- Look for Seals: The Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly or the USDA Organic seal are reliable indicators.
- Read Ingredients: Check for "animal rennet," "non-GMO microbial rennet," or "non-GMO vegetable rennet." Avoid generic terms.
- Choose Traditional European: PDO/PGI labels often indicate traditional, non-GMO methods.
- Consider Plant-Based: Look for Non-GMO Project Verified vegan options for a dairy-free non-GMO choice.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Identifying what brand of cheese is non-GMO primarily involves understanding that rennet is often the source of GMOs. Prioritizing products with Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic seals provides the highest assurance. Checking ingredient lists for specific rennet types and being aware of brands committed to non-GMO practices empowers consumers to make informed choices that align with their preferences.
For additional resources, consider visiting the Non-GMO Project website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all organic cheese non-GMO?
Yes, by law, USDA Organic certification prohibits the use of GMOs in any aspect of food production, including animal feed and processing aids like rennet.
What is FPC rennet?
FPC, or Fermentation-Produced Chymosin, is a genetically engineered enzyme used to coagulate milk during cheesemaking. It is the most common type of rennet used in the U.S. and is considered a GMO by the Non-GMO Project.
How can I tell if a cheese uses animal rennet?
Products that use animal rennet often list it specifically on the ingredient label. For European cheeses with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, like Parmigiano-Reggiano, the use of animal rennet is legally required.
Are vegan cheeses always non-GMO?
Not necessarily. While many plant-based cheeses are non-GMO, some ingredients like soy can be genetically modified. It is best to look for the Non-GMO Project Verified label on vegan cheese products to be certain.
What types of cheese are naturally non-GMO?
Many cheeses that do not use rennet for coagulation are naturally non-GMO. This includes certain types of cottage cheese, cream cheese, and traditional paneer, which rely on acid instead of enzymes.
Are all cheeses from Europe non-GMO?
Most traditional European cheeses, especially those with PDO or PGI status, use animal rennet and are non-GMO. However, modern commercial producers may use genetically engineered rennet, so checking the label is always recommended.
Can I find non-GMO cheese at major grocery stores?
Yes, major grocery chains like Target and Walmart, as well as specialty stores like Whole Foods, carry a variety of non-GMO and organic cheese brands. Look for the Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic seals.
