Genetically modified foods, known as GMs or GMOs, are produced from plants that have been genetically modified in a laboratory to create non-naturally occurring combinations.
Examples of GMOs include crops such as corn, soybeans and sugar beets, which are commonly later used as oils or flavorings in many foods.
Genetic engineering is a more meaningful term than GMO to describe the process of creating modified plants and foods from them. Words to describe foods created using genetic engineering include "genetically modified" or "biotechnological foods."
According to studies, up to 94 percent of US corn is currently genetically modified, as is 94 percent of soybeans and 92 percent of cotton (cottonseed oil is used in food products). The Center for Food Safety estimates that up to 75 percent of processed foods on supermarket shelves contain genetically engineered ingredients.
Most GMO plants are used to make ingredients for other food products (usually processed foods, including crackers, condiments, sodas, and more).
Examples of GMO crop use include:
Other major crops with genetically modified varieties include potatoes, squash, apples and papaya.
Animals can also be genetically engineered, but as of March 2019, the FDA has only approved an application for a genetically engineered salmon species. The FDA states that it will not approve any application involving genetically modified animals for food use unless it considers the food derived from animals to be safe for human consumption.
Do not hesitate to contact our expert team to get detailed information about the GMO Free and NON GMO label and certification, or to apply for certification.
