Bioengineered crops have been enhanced for increased flavor and nutrition, larger yields, faster growing traits, and greater insect/disease resistance to help ensure a stable and sustainable food supply.

There are no negative health effects associated with their use. Most of the regulatory agencies and organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Academy of Sciences agree that using bioengineered ingredients in food and beverage products is considered safe and equally nutritious.

If the ingredient label contains ingredients such as corn, soybean, sugar beets, or canola, the food or beverage most likely contains bioengineered ingredients, since a very high percentage of those crops grown in the U.S. have been bioengineered.

Yes – while consumers may be more familiar with the terms “genetically modified” (GM) or “genetically modified organism” (GMO), the FDA and USDA prefer the terms “genetically engineered” (GE) or “bioengineered” (BE). However, these terms may be used interchangeably.
  •Bioengineered (BE) - According to the USDA, a bioengineered (BE) food is one that has been modified to contain genetic material and could not otherwise be obtained through conventional breeding or found in nature.
  •Genetically engineered (GE) - "Genetically engineered" (GE) is the term used by the FDA to describe plants that have been enhanced using modern biotechnology.
  •Genetically modified (GM) / Genetically modified organism (GMO) - A genetically modified organism (GMO) is any organism or food produced through genetic modification.

Foods and beverages that meet the definition for Bioengineered Foods indicate this on their labels in one of four ways: a statement saying “Contains a Bioengineered food ingredient”, a symbol saying "Bioengineered" which may be in color or black and white, a link to a website with additional information or a phone number to text for additional information.