Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Kosher, Whole Grain... What do all of these labels mean?
All processed foods and sometimes whole foods (fruits, veggies, meats and seafood) contain labels. Once upon a time the labels were basically the ingredients. Then the calorie, fat, protein, sodium etc. was displayed. Now with so many special diets, food allergies, sensitivities, additives and preservatives, we have even more labels to decode!
NON-GMO PROJECT VERIFIED: An organization that believes we have the right to know what goes into our food. The project administers the most rigorous testing for avoiding GMOs. That label is one I always look for when purchasing a product with corn in it.
GMO: stands for "genetically modified organism," Living Organisms that have had the genetic makeup manipulated in a lab, creating combinations of plant, animal, bacteria, and virus genes that do not occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods. This can also be referred to as synthetic biology. Nearly all GMOs are used to make animal feed or automobile fuel (and remember.. you are eating what the animal ate). When GMOs are in human food, they show up as non-nutritious processed ingredients such as oils, sugars, preservatives and emulsifiers. Although studies are still being performed, GMOs are not beneficial for our gut health.
USDA ORGANIC: Farmers and growers have met the strict standards for growing, processing and handling implemented by the United States Department of Agriculture. Organic is the practice of growing plants without the use of chemical pesticides, chemical fertilizers or other artificial agents.
GLUTEN FREE: Anyone with celiac disease or a gluten allergy, intolerance, or sensitivity will look for this label. It means there is no gluten present in the product.
100% WHOLE GRAIN: A grain is considered whole grain as long as it still contains the entire three parts: the bran, germ and endosperm. Refined grains have had one or two parts removed. This removes many of the nutrients; therefore, opt for the whole grain option when possible.
MADE IN A FACILITY THAT DOES NOT PROCESS PEANUTS: Peanut allergies are very serious and if an individual with a peanut allergy accidentally consumes a peanut, it can be harmful and possibly fatal. Some facilities do process foods with peanuts and other known allergens, as a stray peanut or other allergen has been found in the wrong place. So consumers need to know the food is absolutely safe. (We have even experienced a nut being in the wrong place!)
VEGAN: contains no animal products whatsoever.
KOSHER: Any food fit for consumption by the Jewish community. The laws of Kosher define what foods can and can not be eaten and also how they are handled.
NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS, COLORS OR PRESERVATIVES: This means exactly what it says. There are no artificial or synthetic flavors, colors or preservatives. The item may contain naturally occurring salt or cinnamon.I hope this helps when reading and understanding labels!