Non-GMO vs. Organic: What Is The Difference? | Only Organic (2024)

FAQs

Non-GMO vs. Organic: What Is The Difference? | Only Organic? ›

Organic means free of pesticides and GMOs, while non-GMO means the food wasn't made with genetically-modified organisms. There is no single answer to which is better – either one may be just as good if you're looking to maintain overall health and reduce your intake of contaminants.

The organic label means free of GMOs and pesticides. Meanwhile, the non-GMO label indicates that the food product was not created with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). But again— this does not imply that the product is organic. Further, an item with a 'natural label' also doesn't guarantee that it's organic.

Organic foods are grown, cultivated, or farmed without the use of pesticides, artificial chemicals, hormones, or antibiotics. Non-organic foods are often produced using artificial chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, etc., which can be harmful when consumed.

Products labeled as “100% organic” must contain only organically produced ingredients and processing aids, excluding water and salt. No other ingredients or additives are permitted. Products labeled “organic” must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt).

Compared with produce grown using usual (conventional) methods, organically grown produce has lower levels of pesticide residue. The safety rules for the highest levels of residue allowed on conventional produce have changed. In many cases, the levels have been lowered.

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.

And in order to be certified organic, they must follow strict animal welfare guidelines. Additionally, choosing organic meat means that you are getting non-GMO meat by default. As mentioned before, GMO plants and animals have had their DNA altered in an unnatural way. Using GMOs is not allowed in organic farming.

However, the term "organic" does not necessarily mean "pesticide-free". Organic produce can have pesticide residue from organic pesticides used in their cultivation.

Pure does not mean Organic. By law Organic products must be certified by the USDA. Only 100% Certified Organic products can bear the USDA Organic Seal on the Label. To be CERTIFIED all ingredients must meet or GO ABOVE & BEYOND the USDA's STRICT STANDARDS.

If you want the advantages of produce that is free of pesticides and has less antibiotic exposure, then it could be worth the additional expense. However, if you are on a budget, it may be wiser to purchase conventionally grown fruits and vegetables instead of going without entirely.

Is organic 100% natural? ›

Buying organic guarantees that the food you are eating contains no toxic pesticides or chemicals, no synthetic growth hormones or antibiotics, no GMOs, no artificial additives or preservatives, and is grown/raised using organic farming methods. Organic is always natural and non-GMO, but the opposite cannot be said.

Organic compounds are generally complex molecules derived from or produced by living organisms and have carbon-hydrogen bonds. Inorganic compounds are generally more simple molecules derived from nonliving components, like metals, and have no carbon-hydrogen bonds.

Many organic pesticides are less toxic than their synthetic counterparts, but that doesn't mean they are safe or won't cause environmental harm. Just like synthetic pesticides, organic pesticides are formulated to kill.

Do GMOs affect your health? GMO foods are as healthful and safe to eat as their non-GMO counterparts. Some GMO plants have actually been modified to improve their nutritional value. An example is GMO soybeans with healthier oils that can be used to replace oils that contain trans fats.

Genetically modified organisms are distinct from crops that have been bred using traditional cross breeding methods. GMOs are only created through the use of genetic engineering or biotechnology, not through processes that could occur in nature.

Organically grown produce is shown to have 30% less pesticide residue than non-organic, but both fall within legally allowable limits. One of the strongest arguments for organic plants is environmental impact, as organic growing practices lead to less chemical and pharmaceutical runoff.

A major concern among organic farmers is that seeds are often carried on the wind or by pollinators to other fields. This makes it possible for Monsanto's genetically-modified seeds to contaminate organic crops.