Look for the non-GMO Project logo. This third-party verification means the food has been tested for GMOs. Look for the colorful butterfly and plant logo on the label.
Check for a grocery chain’s organic line. Some grocers, like Whole Foods have their own organic and non-GMO products..
Look at the PLU Code on produce. When shopping for fruits and vegetables, your first choice should be those labeled with a five-digit PLU that begins with a “9,” which indicates the food is certified organic. Produce items containing a four-digit PLU are considered “conventional” – not technically GMO, but may still contain pesticides and other toxic residues. If the PLU begins with an “8,” avoid it.
Avoid “at-risk” ingredients. The five most prevalent GMO crops are corn, canola, soy, cottonseed and sugar beets. These are also typically added to packaged foods as corn syrup, oil, sugar, flavoring agents, thickeners and other ingredients. Choose organic or non-GMO verified.
The most common “genetically-tinkered-with” crops are:
- Corn (especially sweet corn)
- Hawaiian papaya
- Zucchini
- Yellow summer squash
- Edamame (soy)
- Sugar – unless you are buying pure cane sugar, expect a GM variety of beet sugar.
- Artificial sweeteners are likely derived from GM sources.
Go Bulk. Dry grains, beans, nuts and seeds are typically non-GMO (exceptions listed above).