Understanding the difference: Bioengineered vs. Modified
To know what food is not bioengineered, it is crucial to first understand the distinction between standard food modification techniques and modern bioengineering. The term "bioengineered" (BE) as defined by the USDA is a specific type of genetic modification achieved through laboratory techniques that cannot be created through conventional breeding. Humans have been modifying crops and livestock for millennia using selective breeding—a natural, traditional process of crossing plants or animals with desirable traits to improve future generations. This is how common foods like modern corn and seedless watermelon were developed. Bioengineering, or genetic engineering, involves inserting DNA from a different species into an organism to achieve a specific trait, such as pest or herbicide resistance. This distinction is the core of understanding which foods have or have not been subjected to modern genetic engineering methods.
The USDA's role in labeling
Since January 2022, the USDA's National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (NBFDS) has required food manufacturers to disclose bioengineered ingredients on their labels using a specific symbol, text, or QR code. However, this standard has limitations. Foods from very small manufacturers and those sold in restaurants are exempt from the disclosure requirement. Furthermore, highly refined ingredients derived from bioengineered crops, like corn syrup or soy lecithin, might not be labeled as BE if the refining process removes all detectable modified genetic material. This means that while some labels provide clear answers, others may require more careful consideration.
Identifying food that is not bioengineered
Look for specific labels
One of the simplest and most reliable ways to find food that is not bioengineered is to look for specific third-party certification labels. These certifications provide a guarantee that the product has been verified against specific non-GMO standards.
- USDA Organic Seal: Products carrying the "100% Organic" or "Organic" seal are prohibited from using bioengineered ingredients. This is a key part of the USDA's organic standards, covering everything from fruits and vegetables to meat and dairy. For packaged products labeled "organic," at least 95% of the ingredients must be organic.
- Non-GMO Project Verified Seal: This label, backed by independent testing and verification, signifies that a product contains less than 0.9% genetically modified ingredients. It's a reliable choice for items like eggs, chicken, and packaged goods where the Non-GMO status of animal feed or processed ingredients is a concern.
Choose whole and unprocessed foods
Processed and packaged foods are where bioengineered ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, soy lecithin, and corn starch are most frequently hidden. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods, you naturally reduce your exposure to potentially bioengineered components.
- Unprocessed Grains: Choose whole grains like quinoa, oats, barley, and rice. Organic or Non-GMO verified rice is a safer option to avoid potential contamination.
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: With the exception of a few crops, most fresh produce sold is not bioengineered. Notable exceptions include Hawaiian papaya, some varieties of zucchini, yellow summer squash, and sweet corn. Check labels or shop at farmers' markets for full transparency.
- Wild-Caught Fish and Grass-Fed Meats: Wild-caught fish are not bioengineered. While no bioengineered livestock is currently sold for consumption, conventional farm animals are often raised on bioengineered feed. Opting for grass-fed or organic meat ensures the animal was not raised on bioengineered grains.
Shop at local farmers' markets
Local farmers' markets often offer a direct connection to the source of your food. By talking to the farmers, you can gain a deeper understanding of their growing practices and confirm that their produce is not bioengineered. Smaller, local farms are less likely to use genetically modified seeds compared to large-scale industrial agriculture.
Comparison of Bioengineered vs. Non-Bioengineered Food Attributes
| Attribute | Bioengineered Food | Non-Bioengineered Food |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Genetic material altered via specific lab techniques that cannot occur naturally. | Genetic material is either naturally occurring or altered via traditional breeding methods. |
| Common Examples | Corn, soy, sugar beets, canola, Hawaiian papaya, some summer squash. | Wild-caught fish, most fruits and vegetables, whole grains, certified organic products. |
| Labeling | May carry a specific USDA bioengineered symbol, text, or QR code. Not always required for highly refined products. | Often carries "Non-GMO Project Verified" or "USDA Organic" seals, which prohibit bioengineered ingredients. |
| Production Method | Modern genetic engineering to insert or modify genes for traits like herbicide resistance. | Selective breeding, cross-breeding, and conventional farming practices. |
| Source | Large-scale, conventional agriculture. | Can come from organic farms, small-scale farms, or wild-foraging. |
Conclusion: Making informed choices
The journey to understanding what food is not bioengineered begins with recognizing that not all genetic modification is the same. By familiarizing yourself with the difference between conventional breeding and modern lab techniques, you empower yourself to make better choices at the grocery store. Seeking out USDA Organic or Non-GMO Project Verified products, prioritizing whole foods, and supporting local farmers are all effective strategies for identifying non-bioengineered items. While the BE labeling standard provides some guidance, a savvy shopper should always be prepared to read labels carefully and question the source of their food. By doing so, you can align your purchases with your personal preferences for natural and traditionally sourced ingredients. The Non-GMO Project provides a list of verified products to help with your search for non-bioengineered options, offering clarity in a confusing market. [https://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/search-products/]
Ultimately, making informed decisions about the food you consume is a powerful way to take control of your diet and support the agricultural practices you believe in. With this knowledge, navigating the supermarket becomes less about avoiding confusion and more about confidently choosing the foods that are right for you and your family.
