From Bioengineered to Non-GMO: The Cheerios Story
For many years, original Cheerios, like many other common packaged foods, contained ingredients derived from bioengineered crops. The core of Cheerios—whole grain oats—has never been a genetically modified crop, but ingredients added for flavor and texture, such as cornstarch and sugar, were sourced from bioengineered corn and sugar beets. In response to growing consumer demand for non-GMO options, particularly a campaign by the organization Green America, General Mills made a change. In early 2014, the company announced it would stop using genetically modified ingredients for the original, yellow-box Cheerios, opting instead for pure cane sugar and non-bioengineered cornstarch. While the company maintained the safety of bioengineered foods, it invested in this ingredient change to meet consumer preferences, a move that only applied to the original variety at the time.
Understanding the 'Bioengineered' Label
To understand what was bioengineered in Cheerios, it's helpful to know what the term means. In the United States, the USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, which became mandatory for food manufacturers in 2022, defines 'bioengineered food' as food containing genetic material modified through laboratory techniques that could not be created through conventional breeding. This term is a specific legal definition that covers many of the same products consumers commonly refer to as GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). However, the standard has certain exemptions, and companies can use a text label, a special symbol, or a scannable QR code to disclose this information.
For Cheerios, the move to non-bioengineered ingredients was straightforward for the original variety due to its relatively simple ingredient list, but General Mills indicated at the time that a similar move was not feasible for all its products. This is because other varieties, like Honey Nut Cheerios and Multi-Grain Cheerios, often contain more pervasive bioengineered ingredients, such as from corn, soy, or beet sugar, making a complete shift more complex. As a result, consumers who wish to avoid bioengineered ingredients must remain vigilant about reading the labels on each individual product variety.
Making Informed Dietary Choices
Beyond bioengineered ingredients, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile of any food as part of a healthy diet. For cereals like Cheerios, this involves looking at sugar content, fiber, and any added vitamins and minerals. While the bioengineered status of an ingredient is a primary concern for many, it is not the only factor in nutritional value.
Comparing Cheerios: Original vs. Other Varieties
| Feature | Original Cheerios (Post-2014) | Other Varieties (e.g., Honey Nut, Multi-Grain) |
|---|---|---|
| Bioengineered Ingredients | Non-bioengineered sugar and cornstarch. | May contain bioengineered ingredients from corn, sugar, or soy. |
| Primary Ingredient | Whole grain oats, which are not a GM crop. | Also whole grain oats, but may include other grains. |
| Sweeteners | Pure cane sugar. | Can include beet sugar and corn syrup. |
| Labeling | May be labeled as Non-GMO; legally non-bioengineered. | Must disclose bioengineered ingredients, often via QR code or text. |
The Importance of Reading Labels
As the information about Cheerios shows, ingredient lists and labels are crucial for making informed choices. The distinction between the original and other versions highlights why consumers must look beyond brand recognition. It is also important to note that a separate issue regarding the pesticide chlormequat was recently raised by the Environmental Working Group, with some studies showing it in oat-based foods, including Cheerios. This underscores that nutrition is multifaceted and involves looking at more than just the bioengineered status of ingredients.
Conclusion: Navigating Modern Food Production
For anyone asking what is bioengineered in Cheerios?, the simple answer is that the ingredients in the original variety were changed nearly a decade ago to remove bioengineered components. This serves as a significant example of how consumer action and evolving market demands can influence a major food manufacturer's practices. However, it also illustrates the complexity of modern food production, as other flavors and brands from the same company might still contain bioengineered elements. Ultimately, a balanced and healthy diet depends on a comprehensive understanding of all ingredients and paying close attention to food labeling standards. Being an informed shopper is the best approach to ensuring your dietary choices align with your personal health values.
Resources for Further Learning
- The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service provides information on the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard. https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/be
- The World Health Organization offers general guidance on healthy eating principles. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet
