The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a clear definition: bioengineered foods are those that “contain detectable genetic material that has been modified through certain lab techniques that cannot be created through conventional breeding or found in nature.” This definition closely aligns with how many people understand and use the term “genetically modified organisms,” or GMOs. In essence, bioengineered foods and GMOs are largely the same thing in common usage, referring to foods produced using genetic engineering.
At its core, bioengineering in food production involves altering the genetic makeup of plants or animals to enhance certain traits. This is achieved through advanced laboratory techniques that allow scientists to introduce specific genetic material into an organism. These modifications can’t be replicated through traditional breeding methods, which rely on natural selection and cross-pollination over generations. Bioengineering offers a more targeted and rapid approach to developing desired characteristics in food crops and, potentially, livestock.
Why are foods bioengineered? The goals are varied but often center around improving crop yields, enhancing nutritional value, and increasing resistance to pests and diseases. For example, bioengineering has led to the development of corn varieties that are resistant to certain insects, reducing the need for pesticide applications. Other bioengineering efforts focus on enhancing the vitamin content of foods or making crops more tolerant to herbicides, simplifying weed management for farmers. These modifications can contribute to a more efficient and potentially sustainable food supply.
As of January 1, 2022, the USDA implemented a new U.S. Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard. This means that foods meeting the definition of bioengineered are now required to carry a label. Consumers can identify these foods by looking for labels that state “bioengineered food” or “derived from bioengineering,” often accompanied by a green seal featuring a sun shining over a field. This labeling standard is intended to provide consumers with more information about their food choices.
It’s important to note that a significant portion of commonly consumed crops in the U.S. are bioengineered. Over 90% of corn, soybeans, and sugar beets grown in the United States are genetically modified. Consequently, many processed foods containing ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, beet sugar, or soy protein may now be labeled as bioengineered. Additionally, certain whole foods like specific types of eggplants, potatoes, and apples are also on the USDA’s list of bioengineered foods and may require labels.
While the introduction of bioengineered food labels aims for transparency, the topic has been subject to considerable debate. Historically, food manufacturers have expressed concerns about mandatory labeling, fearing it might create a misconception that bioengineered foods are inherently unsafe. However, a vast body of scientific evidence, including studies from organizations like the USDA, the World Health Organization, and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, consistently concludes that consuming genetically modified foods does not pose any greater health risks than consuming conventionally grown foods.
French Non-GMO Label on Canned Corn: An example of food labeling in France indicating the product is free from genetically modified organisms, highlighting international approaches to GMO transparency.
Despite the scientific consensus on safety, many consumers have advocated for mandatory labeling, driven by a desire for greater transparency and the right to make informed choices about their food. The new USDA standard represents a federal approach to this demand, placing the U.S. alongside over 60 other countries that have implemented some form of GMO or bioengineered food labeling.
For consumers seeking to avoid bioengineered foods, alternative options exist. Products certified as organic are prohibited from containing genetically modified ingredients. Another voluntary label to look for is the “Non-GMO Project Verified” label, recognized by its butterfly logo. Both of these labels indicate verification by a third party that the product meets non-GMO standards, offering consumers additional assurance when making purchasing decisions. Understanding what bioengineered foods are, and the labels associated with them, empowers consumers to navigate their food choices with greater clarity.
