Non-GM all the way

THE DEBATE over genetically modified (GM) crops is far from over, and developments in the area of genetic modification continue. This year, the European Union is expected to take another step in favour of GM by  approving the cultivation of a pest-resistant maize variety, despite blares of opposition.

British-owned clean label starch specialist, Ulrick & Short, said it is committed to supplying only non-GM ingredients.  "The ethos of Ulrick & Short is founded upon the provision of clean label, non-GM ingredients that will enrich our foodstuffs without the assistance of additives and, yes, genetic interference," said Director Adrian Short. "As innovators in our field, we recognise, and indeed embrace, the role that science has played in advancing food technology – we would not be as successful as we are without that science. "Nevertheless, our science is based on drawing out the natural qualities of a range of core crop ingredients, combining their innate strengths and features and examining how we can best use them in new and ever more innovative applications."

According to current EU regulations, the 'acceptable' industry level of genetically modified elements in any particular ingredient is 0.9% - but is that acceptable enough?

The company poses this question to food manufacturers: how confident are you that your non-GM ingredients really are what they say they are?

Supermarkets and other retailers have to prove that their products are non-GM. On the standard 'at risk' lists are basic products including corn, rye and quinoa – and of course the larger the retailer and more extensive the supply chain, the more challenging it is to verify non-GM credentials. Until recently U&S was one of the few food industry suppliers which adhered to a guaranteed and audited maximum GM risk of just 0.1% – nearly 10 times lower than the industry standard, and for an extended range of products unmatched by rivals. A recent report from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) stated that detection of GM material in internationally traded non-GM food and feed has spiked over recent years, interrupting trade and increasing losses. Linseed, maize, rice and papaya were the most common crops contaminated with unauthorised GM material. Such an increase is not necessarily unexpected with the global increase in production of GM crops and improvements in both criteria and frequency of testing; nevertheless, above the 0.9% level, statutory labelling is required in the UK.

Whilst retailers may continue to commit to a non-GM policy, at least in the short term as consumers remain wary of GM foods, over time they will have to put in place even more stringent audit trails in order to retain non-GM status. Mr Short said, "Ulrick & Short is unequivocally committed to the provision of non-GM, clean label ingredients to meet the needs of food manufacturers and technologists across the world. We're convinced that, regardless of the somewhat inevitable advancement of GM crops, there will always be demand for clean label alternatives, and we will continue to strive for innovation and technological achievement in this area."