GMOs: Genetically Modified Organisms
Understanding what's been changed in our food supply, why it matters for your family, and how to make informed choices at the grocery store.
What Are GMOs?
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are plants, animals, or microorganisms whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. Unlike traditional crossbreeding, genetic engineering allows scientists to insert genes from entirely different species — for example, inserting bacterial genes into a plant so it produces its own insecticide, or making a crop resistant to herbicides so fields can be sprayed heavily without killing the crop.
First introduced to the U.S. food supply in 1996, GMO crops now dominate American agriculture. The vast majority of processed foods on supermarket shelves contain GMO-derived ingredients, often without consumers being fully aware.
Common GMO Crops in the U.S.
These crops make up the foundation of America's processed food supply. The percentages represent the share that is genetically modified.
Corn
Used in corn syrup, starch, oil, and animal feed
Soybeans
Found in soy lecithin, soybean oil, tofu, and protein isolates
Cotton
Cottonseed oil is used in many processed foods
Canola
One of the most common cooking oils in processed food
Sugar Beets
About 55% of U.S. sugar comes from GMO sugar beets
Papaya
Most Hawaiian papaya is genetically engineered
Health Concerns
While the GMO industry claims its products are safe, there are important reasons families should be cautious.
Designed for Heavy Pesticide Use
The majority of GMO crops are engineered to tolerate herbicides — primarily glyphosate (Roundup). This means GMO crops are sprayed with significantly more herbicides than conventional crops, and those residues end up in our food.
Limited Independent Safety Studies
Most safety studies on GMOs have been funded by the companies that produce them. Independent, long-term studies on the effects of eating GMO foods are scarce. The few independent studies that exist have raised concerns about organ damage, immune system effects, and tumor growth in animal models.
Gut Health Impacts
Bt toxin — produced by GMO corn engineered with Bacillus thuringiensis genes — was designed to rupture insect stomachs. Research suggests it may also affect human gut bacteria, potentially contributing to intestinal permeability ("leaky gut") and related conditions.
Allergenicity Concerns
Introducing foreign proteins into food crops can create new allergenic potential. The rise in food allergies in the U.S. since GMOs were introduced has prompted researchers to investigate a possible connection, though conclusive evidence is still being gathered.
GMO Labeling: Know What You're Buying
The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, which took full effect in January 2022, requires food manufacturers to disclose bioengineered (BE) ingredients. However, critics — including MAA — have noted significant shortcomings:
- The law uses the term “bioengineered” instead of the widely understood “GMO,” which can confuse consumers.
- Highly refined ingredients (like sugar and oils) may be exempt even if derived from GMO crops, because the final product may not contain detectable modified DNA.
- Disclosure can be made via QR code or phone number rather than clear on-package text, creating barriers for many consumers.
Look for the “Bioengineered” or “Derived from Bioengineering” disclosure on packaging — but know that absence of the label does not guarantee a product is GMO-free.
How to Avoid GMOs
Practical steps you can take today to reduce your family's exposure to genetically modified foods.
Look for Non-GMO Project Verified
The butterfly logo from the Non-GMO Project is the most trusted third-party verification for GMO avoidance. Products bearing this label have been tested and verified to meet strict non-GMO standards.
Buy USDA Organic
USDA Organic certification prohibits the use of GMOs. Choosing organic is one of the most reliable ways to avoid genetically modified ingredients in your food.
Know the High-Risk Ingredients
Watch for these common GMO-derived ingredients on labels: corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup, soy lecithin, canola oil, sugar (from sugar beets), and cottonseed oil.
Shop Local & Ask Questions
Farmers' markets and local farms often grow non-GMO varieties. Don't be afraid to ask your farmer directly about their seeds and growing practices.
Dig Deeper Into the Data
Explore MAA's independent testing results to see what's really in the food your family eats every day.