Understanding Bioengineered vs. Non-GMO Labels
Since January 2022, the USDA has required manufacturers to use the "Bioengineered" (BE) label on foods containing detectable modified genetic material. This disclosure is mandatory for food products intended for humans that meet the definition of bioengineered food as set by the USDA's National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard. It is important to note that highly refined products derived from a bioengineered crop, such as corn oil or sugar, are exempt if the modified genetic material is no longer detectable. Some manufacturers voluntarily disclose the origin of these highly refined ingredients, but it is not required by law.
In contrast, the term "non-GMO" is part of a voluntary, third-party labeling standard, most notably managed by the Non-GMO Project. This certification signifies that a product has been produced without genetic engineering and its ingredients meet the program's strict verification standards. The Non-GMO Project's butterfly logo is a widespread and trusted symbol, and a product carrying this seal has undergone a rigorous verification process. A key difference is that a product can be labeled non-GMO without being organic, as it might still use conventional farming methods, while an organic label inherently means it is non-GMO.
Key Certifications to Look For
When searching for chips that are not bioengineered, two certifications offer the highest level of assurance:
- Non-GMO Project Verified: This voluntary certification is provided by the Non-GMO Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing consumers with options free of genetically modified organisms. The distinctive butterfly logo is a reliable indicator that the product has been verified against their standards.
- USDA Organic: Products bearing the USDA Organic seal are produced using farming practices that prohibit the use of genetically engineered ingredients. This means any chip with this certification is inherently non-bioengineered. Additionally, organic standards ensure a broader approach to sustainable farming by restricting the use of most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Popular Non-Bioengineered Chip Brands
Several brands offer non-bioengineered chips, often featuring one of the aforementioned certifications. Here is a list of some well-regarded options:
- Boulder Canyon: Known for its kettle-style potato chips cooked in avocado oil, many of its products are Non-GMO Project Verified.
- Kettle Brand: Offers a variety of non-GMO certified potato chips, including many flavors in their standard and krinkle-cut lines.
- Late July: A prominent provider of organic and non-GMO tortilla chips, with flavors like Nacho Cheese and Sea Salt & Lime.
- Siete Family Foods: Specializes in grain-free tortilla chips made from alternative flours like cassava and chickpea, which are naturally non-bioengineered.
- 365 by Whole Foods Market (Organic): The store's organic house brand includes a range of non-GMO chips, such as their organic corn and tortilla chip varieties.
- El Milagro: Offers 100% Natural Totopos Tortilla Chips, which are specifically labeled as Non-GMO and gluten-free.
- Simply Snacks (Frito-Lay): A subset of the Frito-Lay brand, some of its products are Non-GMO Project Verified, a fact confirmed by PepsiCo.
- Popchips: Many of their popped potato snacks are certified non-GMO, offering an alternative to traditional fried chips.
How to Read Labels and Avoid Bioengineered Ingredients
Not all chips require the USDA BE disclosure, especially if they are made from crops that do not have a genetically engineered counterpart, such as oats or rice. However, it's the ingredients that often determine the bioengineered status. The most common bioengineered crops are corn and soybeans, so extra scrutiny is needed for chips where these are primary ingredients. When corn or soy is listed as a main ingredient and there is no Non-GMO or Organic certification, there is a higher probability it contains bioengineered components.
Ingredients to Scrutinize
- Corn oil: Unless certified organic or non-GMO, this can be a source of bioengineered ingredients.
- Soy oil/Soy lecithin: These are often derived from bioengineered soybeans unless otherwise specified.
- Flavorings and oils: Some conventional snack flavorings and oils used in processing can contain genetically engineered components.
- Sugar: A significant portion of U.S. sugar beets is bioengineered, so if sugar is listed and the product isn't certified non-GMO, it could be a source.
Non-Bioengineered vs. Conventional Chips
| Feature | Non-Bioengineered (Certified Organic or Non-GMO Project) | Conventional Chips (Without Certification) |
|---|---|---|
| Sourcing | Ingredients sourced from crops not genetically engineered using recombinant DNA techniques. | May be sourced from genetically engineered crops, particularly corn, soy, and canola. |
| Labeling | Often displays the Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic seal. | May display the mandatory USDA Bioengineered label if detectable BE ingredients are present. Highly refined ingredients may not require a label. |
| Farming Practices | For USDA Organic, farming practices avoid most synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and focus on soil health. Non-GMO does not restrict pesticides. | Can use conventional farming methods, including synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. |
| Traceability | Certification involves rigorous third-party verification and segregation to prevent cross-contamination. | Traceability of ingredients to non-bioengineered sources is not a priority unless labeled. |
Beyond Corn and Potato: Alternative Chips
For consumers who want to avoid the most commonly bioengineered crops like corn and soy, focusing on alternative chip varieties can be a good strategy. Many vegetable and grain-based chips are naturally less likely to contain bioengineered ingredients, though checking for certifications is still the safest approach. Consider chips made from ingredients like:
- Sweet Potatoes: Many sweet potato chips are available in non-GMO varieties.
- Plantains: Chips made from plantains are another excellent non-GMO choice.
- Cassava: Used in grain-free tortilla chips by brands like Siete and Artisan Tropic.
- Beans: Brands like Beanfields or Beanitos use beans as a base for their chips, and many are verified non-GMO.
Conclusion
Identifying which chips are not bioengineered is straightforward once you know what to look for. The presence of the Non-GMO Project Verified seal or the USDA Organic label is the most reliable way to ensure your snack is free from genetically engineered ingredients. Shoppers can also read ingredient lists carefully, paying close attention to corn, soy, and sugar unless the product is specifically certified. By supporting brands that prioritize transparent labeling and non-bioengineered ingredients, consumers can make informed choices that align with their preferences. For a comprehensive list of all bioengineered crops and related information, visit the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service website.
