The updated Non-GMO Project Standard offers North America’s most meaningful system for GMO avoidance

Contact: Hans Eisenbeis
Phone: 360-255-7704 x107
Email: Press@nongmoproject.org

Bellingham, WA—July 26, 2019—The Non-GMO Project published the fifteenth version of the Non-GMO Project Standard today. The most rigorous standard of its kind, the Non-GMO Project Standard is a consensus-based document crafted with insight from dozens of industry experts, reflecting a dynamic range of perspectives. As new GMOs continue to enter the supply chain at an increased rate, the Non-GMO Project Standard remains current through a robust biennial revision process.

The Non-GMO Project Standard v15 was created with broad stakeholder input gathered across three public comment periods. Commenters submitted feedback on critical topics, notably including proposed changes to the compliance requirements for livestock and poultry feed rations as well as proposed changes to the testing and affidavit sections. Accordingly, Standard v15 includes updated requirements for feed rations, sampling and testing, affidavits, inputs derived from microorganisms, and overall product evaluations. Version 15 also features improved organization and numbering, making it the most accessible Standard yet. 

“Maintaining a balance between meaningfulness and achievability is a complex process that requires input from a wide range of industry partners,” said Non-GMO Project Executive Director Megan Westgate. “The newest Standard includes improved specifications for affidavit pathways, which complement the comprehensive testing requirements.”

The board-appointed Standards Committee addressed all comments from stakeholders and proposed changes to the Standard. The Non-GMO Project then held two further open comment periods to allow for comments on proposed revisions. “The Non-GMO Project is fully committed to equity and transparency throughout the revision process,” Westgate said. “We want to ensure the Standard is as collaborative as possible.”

As products of new genetic engineering techniques begin to enter the supply chain, the Non-GMO Project will continue to update the Standard to efficiently preserve and build sources of non-GMO products. The updated Standard, Information about the Standard revision process, and an outline of changes from v14.3 to v15 can be found on the Non-GMO Project website.

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ABOUT THE NON-GMO PROJECT

The Non-GMO Project is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-GMO products, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices.