This is the thirteenth installment of the Organic 101 series
that explores different aspects of the USDA organic regulations.
The use of genetic engineering, or genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), is prohibited in organic products. This means
an organic farmer can’t plant GMO seeds, an organic cow can’t
eat GMO alfalfa or corn, and an organic soup producer can’t use
any GMO ingredients. To meet the USDA organic regulations,
farmers and processors must show they aren’t using GMOs and that
they are protecting their products from contact with prohibited
substances, such as GMOs, from farm to table. Organic operations
implement preventive practices based on site-specific risk
factors, such as neighboring conventional farms or shared farm
equipment or processing facilities. For example, some farmers
plant their seeds early or late to avoid organic and GMO crops
flowering at the same time (which can cause cross-pollination).
Others harvest crops prior to flowering or sign cooperative
agreements with neighboring