Have you ever stood in the grocery aisle, scanning food labels and wondering what all of the certifications you see mean? With so many claims like "organic," "natural," and "non-GMO," it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
One of the most trusted labels you’ll come across is Non-GMO Project Verified, but what does that mean and why should you care?
At My Better Batch, we believe in using simple, clean ingredients that you can trust, which is why we went through the rigorous product testing required to get our cookie mixes Non-GMO Project Verified.
Beyond just a label, this certification represents a commitment to transparency, sustainability, and better food choices.
What Are GMOs?
GMO stands for “genetically modified organism”. According to the National Human Genome Institute, a GMO “is a plant, animal or microbe in which one or more changes have been made to the genome, typically using high-tech genetic engineering, in an attempt to alter the characteristics of an organism. Genes can be introduced, enhanced or deleted within a species, across species or even across kingdoms.”
In the past, humans have used selective breeding to genetically modify plants and animals, selecting traits they hoped to see in future litters and crops. Today, biotechnology is frequently used to alter the characteristics of an organism.
When biotechnology is used to make changes to food products, it creates new gene sequences that can’t be found in nature - and more importantly, that haven’t been introduced to the human diet before.
While some individuals may not have specific concerns about consuming GMOs, others prioritize transparency in their food choices. For these consumers, knowing the ingredients and processes involved in producing their food is paramount, and the "Project Non-GMO Verified" label provides that crucial information.
What is the Non-GMO Project?
The Non-GMO Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded by two grocery stores, The Natural Grocery Company in Berkeley, CA, and The Big Carrot Natural Food Market in Toronto Canada.
The organization believes that everyone has the right to know what ingredients are used in their food and to have clear, non-GMO labeled options. The team is also dedicated to building and protecting a non-GMO food supply.
How Does a Product Earn the “Project Non-GMO Verified” Label?
The verification process can take 3-6 months and products are held to the strictest of standards.
Here's a glimpse into what the process entails:
- Rigorous Testing: Products are tested at multiple stages of production, from the seeds to the finished product, to ensure they meet the Non-GMO Project's strict standards. This testing looks for the presence of GMOs.
- Segregation and Traceability: The Non-GMO Project requires segregation and traceability throughout the entire supply chain. This means that non-GMO ingredients must be kept separate from GMO ingredients from the farm to the packaging facility, and there must be documentation to prove this segregation. This "chain of custody" is essential for maintaining the integrity of the non-GMO product.
- Ongoing Compliance Audits: Verification is not a one-time thing. Participating companies must undergo ongoing compliance audits to ensure they continue to meet the Non-GMO Project's standards. This ongoing monitoring builds consumer trust and confidence in the verification process.
The Non-GMO Project's commitment to these high standards provides consumers with the assurance they need when seeking out non-GMO options. It's a system built on transparency, testing, and ongoing monitoring, making the "Project Non-GMO Verified" butterfly label a powerful tool for informed decision-making.
The Benefits of Project Non-GMO for Consumers
In a world where food production can be complex, the "Project Non-GMO Verified" label offers several key benefits for consumers:
- Transparency and Choice: Perhaps the most significant benefit is the transparency it provides. The label empowers consumers to make informed choices about the food they buy. It gives them clear, verifiable information about the presence (or rather, absence) of GMOs, allowing them to align their purchases with their personal preferences.
- Support for Non-GMO Agriculture: By choosing "Project Non-GMO Verified" products, consumers are indirectly supporting the growth and availability of non-GMO crops and agricultural practices.
- Trust and Confidence: The verification process behind the label builds trust and confidence. It's not just a self-declared claim; it's a third-party verification system that involves rigorous testing, traceability, and ongoing audits.
At My Better Batch, we believe in providing our customers with the highest quality ingredients and complete transparency. That's why we're proudly Non-GMO Project Verified. We're committed to offering you delicious, wholesome products you can feel good about!
