Non-GMO Project Verified (2316)

Did you know that 80 percent of processed foods in North American grocery stores contain GMOs? GMO stands for genetically modified organism and refers to produce grown from seeds that have been genetically engineered in a laboratory. Most often, GMOs are created to withstand herbicides so that they can be sprayed with chemicals used to kill pests and weeds without destroying the crop. The long-term environmental and health impacts of GMOs are not yet fully understood, but the topic continues to be a growing debate as more countries adopt non-GMO regulatory policies, including Germany and France. As the U.S. continues to grapple with the possible impact of GMOs, many brands are omitting GMOs from its ingredients (brands we are proud to carry at ThriveMarket.com), and including Non-GMO Project Verified labels on packaging.

What Is Non-GMO Project Verified?

Sadly, GMOs aren’t currently regulated in the United States, but many producers have taken it upon themselves help consumers everywhere have a better understanding of what we eat. The Non-GMO Project is a nonprofit organization that serves as the country’s only third-party verification system to ensure these products avoid the use of GMOs. The Non-GMO Project currently has 43,000 products from 3,000 brands that are vetted and labeled as verified non-GMO.

Benefits of Non-GMO Project Certification

According to the Non-GMO Project site, 1 in 5 consumers surveyed actively consider the Non-GMO Project Butterfly mark to avoid consumption of GMOs. That’s because a brand choosing to be transparent can can help boost trust amongst consumers. While the effects of GMOs are still being researched, knowing exactly what your food is made of can help you feel assured that the food you’re buying is indeed wholesome and nourishing.

Tips for Finding Non-GMO Project Certified Food

Since avoiding GMOs completely would most likely require an all organic diet (a wonderful goal, but not always easy to pull off), you can still pick and choose certain options to get the best taste with the least amount of nasty chemicals. The analysts at the Environmental Working Group have gathered data and determined which of the most common conventionally grown (read: non-organic) foods contain the most amount of pesticides—also known as The Dirty Dozen. The list includes:

• Celery
• Peaches
• Strawberries
• Apples
• Blueberries
• Nectarines
• Bell peppers
• Spinach
• Cherries
• Kale/collard greens
• Potatoes
• Imported grapes

Top Non-GMO Project Certified Brands

Say “no” to GMOs with these non-GMO certified pantry must-haves.

Primal Kitchen

This Paleo-friendly brand offers condiments, marinades, protein powder, and nutrition bars and prides itself on formulating products made with whole ingredients. Their nutrient-dense products also support keto and Whole30 diets.

Avocado Oil Mayo

Looking for a Whole30 staple? This zesty blend of avocado oil, organic cage-free eggs, sea salt, and rosemary extract is an idea spread for sandwiches and works well with meats, salads, or dip recipes.

Siete

This family-owned brand was born when one family member was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition and required a grain-free diet. (Siete is Spanish for seven—used in honor of seven family members.) Since then, Siete continues to grow in popularity, offering grain-free Mexican food staples without sacrificing flavor.

Grain Free Tortilla Chips

Up your snacking game in a big way with crunchy, crave-worthy, gluten-free chips that are made with cassava and coconut flours along with ground chia seeds and baked in avocado oil.

Bragg

Bragg has a long history of creating gluten-free products that work to support good health while delivering big flavor. The beloved line includes apple cider vinegar, liquid aminos, dressing, seasoning and olive oil along with cleansing beverages.

Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The delicate flavor of this oil, crafted from Koroneiki Greek olives, pairs perfectly with dressing recipes, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or enjoyed on its own with bread for dipping.

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Want to learn even more about GMOs? Here are some helpful resources.

What Is a GMO?

Tired of not knowing exactly what’s on your plate? Get a closer look at genetically modified organisms and learn more about why they’ve earn a questionable reputation.

GMOs Explained

Take an in depth look at genetically modified organisms, better understand their potential impact on your wellness, and learn what you and your family can do to avoid GMO foods.

Benefits of Organic Food

Is organic really best or just another passing food trend? Find out what “organic” actually means and how organic food production impacts the health of the environment and your own health.