Why GMOs Are Prohibited in Organic Foods by the USDA

Overview of the USDA NOP and GMOs

When the Organic Foods Production Act was being drafted, it initially envisaged allowing the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), sewage sludge, and irradiation in organic food production. However, a significant outcry from the public, with over 275,000 comments submitted against these practices, led the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reverse its position. The resulting National Organic Program (NOP) standards were adopted in 2002 and have since undergone minor revisions to ensure they meet consumer expectations and maintain the integrity of the organic label.

Public Comments and Rejection of GMOs

The strong public backlash against GMOs in organic food production was so significant that it prompted a re-evaluation of the initial allowances. According to the 2001 Federal Register, previous regulations proposed in December 1997 allowed these practices, which led to over 275,000 negative comments. The USDA ultimately decided to prohibit the use of GMOs and related technologies in organic production systems.

Despite a lack of current scientific evidence suggesting unacceptable risks to the environment or human health, the majority of respondents expressed a clear opposition to the use of genetic engineering in organic products. The USDA acknowledged that consumers expected these methods not to be used in organic foods, leading to the prohibition in the NOP standards.

Policy on Organic Ingredients and GMOs

The USDA's stance on GMOs in organic ingredients influences the production of both purely organic and mixed-origin products. The agency specifies that for products containing organic ingredients, the production of these ingredients must not involve the use of excluded methods, including genetic engineering. This includes both the organic and non-organic components of mixed-origin products. The policy aims to meet consumer expectations and maintain market integrity.

For products made with mostly organic content, where more than half the ingredients are organic, the use of excluded methods, including GMOs, is not permitted. The intention is to ensure that products labeled as organic comply with consumer expectations and maintain the organic label’s value.

Accessing Public Comments and Regulations

The comments from the public and the subsequent regulations can be accessed on the Federal Register. The documentation includes detailed reports and summaries of the discussions, providing insights into the rationale behind the USDA's decision to ban GMOs in organic food production. This transparency is crucial for maintaining public trust in the organic label.

Conclusion

Understanding the USDA's prohibition on GMOs in organic food production is essential for both producers and consumers. The decision was influenced by a strong public reaction and the desire to maintain consumer trust. The ongoing nature of the organic standards ensures that the regulations remain relevant and responsive to public opinion.

Given the importance of transparency and public participation, it is crucial for stakeholders to utilize resources like the Federal Register to stay informed about the current state of the National Organic Program and its regulations.