GMO-Free Foods

Genetically modified foods are created by artificially inserting bacteria, insect or animal genes into the DNA of food crops. As of early 2010, the United States and Canada do not require genetically modified foods to be labeled. Companies may choose, however, to label their products as "non-GMO" or "GMO free." Crops most likely to be genetically modified are corn, soy, cotton and rapeseed (canola oil). Other genetically modified foods include dairy products made with milk from cows treated with the growth hormones rBST and rBGH.

Organic Foods

If you want to be confident that a food is GMO free, buy organic. USDA regulations prohibit the use of genetically modified ingredients in foods that are certified organic. This includes all dairy products.

Foods Labeled non-GMO

Many soy, corn and canola products are now labeled "non GMO." If you have a favorite product you're not sure about, contact the company by phone or by email. You can do this by clicking "contact us" on the company's website. Most companies reply to email within 1 week. Note also that corn, soy, canola oil and cottonseed oil are used as ingredients in a wide variety of foods, including cereals, snack foods, soup and salad dressing.

Vegetables

As of early 2010, most vegetables found in the produce aisle were not genetically engineered. Exceptions include a small percentage of zucchini, yellow squash and sweet corn, according to the Institute for Responsible Technology. If you're concerned about these items, buy from a local farm (where you can ask questions) or look for organic vegetables. The genetically engineered "flavor saver" tomato, marketed to consumers in the 1990s, was not profitable and is no longer produced.

Fruit

The only genetically modified fruit available as of early 2010 is the Hawaiian papaya. About half the Hawaiian papaya crop is genetically engineered, according to the Institute for Responsible Technology. Seedless melons and grapes are not GMO crops.

Dairy

Dairy products made with milk from cows injected with the growth hormones rBST or rBGH were the first genetically altered products on the market in the United States. To buy GMO-free milk or cheese, look for the rBST or rBGH-free label. You may also buy cheese imported from Europe. The European Union and Switzerland (not an EU member) have banned the use of rBST and rBGH.

Sugar

Beet sugar made from genetically modified sugar beets is now on the market. To avoid this product, buy foods sweetened with "100 percent cane sugar" or organic sweeteners.

Meat and Fish

There are no genetically modified meat or fish products on the market as of early 2010. Livestock, however, may be fed genetically modified foods.