Understanding Genetically Modified Ingredients
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. In the food supply, this process is used to give crops new traits, such as resistance to pests, disease, or herbicides, and to improve nutritional content or shelf life. For consumers, understanding which foods are likely to contain genetically modified ingredients is a key part of navigating the modern grocery store.
The majority of genetically engineered crops grown are not sold directly to consumers as whole produce. Instead, they are processed into common ingredients like cornstarch, corn syrup, oils, and sugar. Therefore, the ingredients list on packaged and processed foods is where you are most likely to encounter GMO derivatives. However, an increasing number of fresh produce items are also genetically modified and have been introduced to the market.
Common Processed Foods and Ingredients
Processed and packaged foods are the most widespread source of genetically modified ingredients. Many common food additives are derived from crops that are largely genetically modified in the US and Canada.
- Corn: One of the most heavily genetically modified crops, corn derivatives are found in a huge variety of foods. This includes ingredients like cornstarch, high-fructose corn syrup, corn oil, and corn meal. You can find these in sodas, candies, cereals, salad dressings, and a multitude of baked goods.
- Soybeans: An estimated 94% of soybeans planted in the US are GMO. Soy is used to produce ingredients like soybean oil, soy lecithin (an emulsifier), soy protein, and soy flour. These derivatives are ubiquitous in processed foods such as tofu, veggie burgers, sauces, and crackers.
- Canola: Most canola grown in North America is genetically modified. The primary product is canola oil, which is widely used in cooking, packaged goods, and margarine.
- Sugar Beets: More than half of the granulated sugar sold in the U.S. comes from genetically modified sugar beets. Unless a product specifies “pure cane sugar,” it likely contains sugar from GMO beets.
Fresh and Whole Foods
While less common, some fresh produce available in grocery stores can be genetically modified. These products often have specific features, such as resistance to pests or delayed browning.
- Papaya: The 'Rainbow' papaya, which is resistant to the ringspot virus, saved the Hawaiian papaya industry from devastation. The majority of Hawaiian papayas are now genetically modified.
- Apples: The 'Arctic' apple varieties (including some Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, and Fuji) are genetically engineered to resist browning when sliced or bruised, reducing food waste.
- Potatoes: Certain varieties of potatoes have been modified to resist pests, fight disease, and prevent bruising. Some are also modified to produce less acrylamide when cooked at high temperatures.
- Squash: Some summer squash varieties, including zucchini, are genetically modified for viral resistance. However, this is not a widespread practice.
Animal Products
While GMO crops are not directly animal products, their widespread use in livestock feed means that many conventional animal products are tied to GMO agriculture.
- Meat and Dairy: Cattle, pigs, and poultry that are conventionally raised in the US are predominantly fed genetically modified corn and soy. Research indicates that consuming meat and dairy from these animals is nutritionally equivalent to products from animals fed non-GMO crops, as the GMO DNA does not transfer to the animal or its products.
- Salmon: The AquAdvantage salmon is a genetically modified salmon that has been approved for sale. It is engineered to reach market size faster than conventionally farmed salmon.
Bioengineered vs. Organic: A Comparison
To help consumers identify bioengineered foods, the USDA implemented a national standard requiring the use of a “Bioengineered (BE)” label on qualifying products. This provides a clear distinction from organic products.
| Feature | Bioengineered (BE) Foods | Organic Foods |
|---|---|---|
| Genetic Modification | Contain detectable genetic material from engineered crops. | Prohibited from using genetically engineered ingredients. |
| Labeling | Mandated label with 'Bioengineered' text or symbol. | Must display a 'USDA Organic' seal. |
| Processing | May be highly processed, containing GMO-derived ingredients like oils and starches. | Processed with organic-approved ingredients and methods. |
| Pest/Weed Control | Often engineered to be resistant to herbicides or pests. | Use non-synthetic pest control and weed management. |
Identifying and Avoiding GMOs
For consumers who wish to avoid genetically modified ingredients, several strategies can be employed:
- Look for the 'Bioengineered' Label: Check for the new USDA Bioengineered food label, which uses text or a symbol to indicate the presence of GMOs.
- Choose Organic: USDA Certified Organic products cannot intentionally contain genetically modified ingredients. This is one of the most reliable ways to avoid GMOs.
- Read Ingredient Lists: Since many GMOs are in processed foods, carefully review ingredient lists for common derivatives like corn syrup, corn oil, soybean oil, or sugar (unless specified as cane sugar).
- Prioritize the Non-GMO Project Verified Seal: This third-party verification label ensures that products meet specific standards for avoiding GMOs through testing and traceability protocols.
- Be Aware of Key Fresh Produce: Remember that specific varieties of produce like Rainbow papayas from Hawaii, Arctic apples, and certain potatoes are genetically modified.
Conclusion
Genetically modified ingredients are a prevalent part of the modern food supply, particularly within processed foods where they manifest as corn- and soy-derived additives and oils. While fresh produce with GMO traits is also available, it is less common. Consumers can make informed choices by understanding the labeling regulations and knowing which crops and their derivatives are most frequently genetically engineered. Choosing organic products or looking for third-party verified labels are the most direct ways to avoid GMOs, though a simple awareness of the common sources is also highly effective.
