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Foods That Are Not GM Modified

Genetically modified organisms, or foods and animals that have had their DNA manipulated, may be present in more than 80 percent of packaged products in the U.S. Although opposed or banned in other countries, GMOs are allowed in the U.S. food supply. Certain foods, like corn and soybeans, are routinely genetically modified. Other foods may not be so clear-cut, prompting independent verification organizations to oversee practices that clearly separate non-GMOs from their more worrisome counterparts.

  1. Non-GMO Verified Food

    • Food products made by manufacturers enrolled in the Non-GMO Project whose products bear the seal "Non-GMO Project Verified" are produced according to strict standards of GMO avoidance. This does not mean that the product is 100 percent GMO free, however it does mean that processing conforms with testing criteria imposed at any point in the production chain. For example, the test must conclude that an ingredient contains less than 0.9 percent GMOs, and followup must be able to prove that this ingredient was used in the final product. The Non-GMO Project says it is the only independent testing organization in North America offering this kind of verification.

    100 Percent Certified Organic Food

    • By law, 100 percent certified organic food cannot be genetically modified. Mere organic (not certified) foods could still contain up to 30 percent genetically modified ingredients. For produce, the product's PLU number can be a tipoff as to whether it is organic, genetically modified, or possibly genetically modified. PLU codes starting with a 9 will be organic, whereas those that begin with an 8 are genetically modified. Codes without either of these starting numbers are conventionally grown fruit or vegetables. However, they could be genetically modified anyway. Only the 9 ensures that you are dealing with a non-GMO product.

    Your Own Produce Made From Non-GMO Seeds

    • You need not decipher codes if you grow your own fruits and vegetables and practice organic farming methods. However, be sure that the seeds you use are non-GMO. If there is no label attesting that it is non-GMO, you can assume it is genetically modified. Buy from heirloom seed companies that will provide you with 100 percent organic, non-hybrid, non-GMO seeds for your garden.

    100 Percent Grass Fed Meat and Wild Fish

    • Choose meat from cows or other animals that have been 100 percent pasture or grass-fed. Doing so will avoid the GM grains that are fed to feedlot cattle for the marbling effect in meat. For animals like hogs and poultry that cannot be 100 percent grass-fed, choose 100 percent certified organic wherever possible. Farmed fish are raised on fish meal that could contain GM grains. Opt for wild fish instead.

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