From GMO to BE

A Bite-Size Read for Your Health and Waistline

This just in! GMOs are now being called BEs! GMO stands for “Genetically Modified Organism” and the term refers to any plants, animals, or microorganisms whose genetic makeup has been modified in a laboratory using genetic engineering. BE stands for “BioEngineered” and refers to food that has been modified through certain laboratory techniques. Here’s where it gets a little fuzzy: not all GMOs are BEs, but all BEs are a certain type of GMO. A little complicated…I know, but I’m here to guide you through it and what it all means!

In January 2022 a new law went into effect regarding labeling BEs which means it’s not new and yet, most people are unaware! The implication is it makes food labels even more confusing…and misleading! Often, food labels say, “no detectable GMOs.” The truth is a lot of GMOs can’t be detected, because when they are used to make food in combination with formulas and ingredients, there is nothing resembling the original genetic makeup of the ingredient that could be tested. This labeling doesn’t offer true insight into the quality of the product.

Adding to the confusion, most products using new GMO techniques, like the?CRISPR?(which is gene editing), aren’t required to have a BE disclosure because this law focuses on foods that contain detectable modified genetic material in the final product. Foods that are heavily processed contain little to no intact genetic material for accurate testing, falling outside of the?BE disclosure requirements. This includes products like sugar, cooking oils, and all packaged goods that contain those ingredients. The BE law applies only to foods intended for direct human consumption. GMO crops used for livestock feed are not included, which is really interesting considering these crops help support the human food supply (a topic for another day). If you want to avoid GMOs in animal products, be sure to buy?verified meat, dairy, and eggs!

Long story short, keep your eyes peeled for these new labels. Maybe do a little extra work to know what you’re consuming, trying your best to avoid foods with those labels (within reason, for you). It’s important we know these words on food packages so we can reclaim control of our health! So, remember, GMOs will now be referred to as BEs!