Experts untangle GMO developments and impact on firms at FoodNavigator-USA’s Going Non-GMO forum May 20

18-May-2015 - Last updated on 16-Jan-2024 at 14:00 GMT

Pressure on food manufacturers to label genetically modified food and provide non-GMO alternatives is mounting as consumer concern and confusion about the technology increases in response to a deluge of negative messaging about it.

In the past month alone, major food service providers, including Chipotle,have announced they are ditching GMO ingredients; the USDA approved certification for a non-GMO claim through its Process Verified Program; and a major food manufacturer said conventional retailers are demanding expanded non-GMO options.

In addition, a federal court rejected an attempt by trade associations to delay the implementation of Vermont’s controversial GMO labeling law until litigation over the law is resolved, and rumblings are emerging about more states exploring labeling laws.

While these developments do not discuss the science or safety of GMOs, they send a negative message to consumers about the ingredients, which creates confusion and fear that can translate to increased demand for non-GMO products.

Indeed, recent research shows 48% of Americans have heard they should avoid foods using biotechnology. Another study found 57% of U.S. adults have some level of concern about GMOs.

Research from The Hartman Group suggests that manufacturers that fail to address these consumer concerns through labeling could cause branded products to lose relevancy with consumers.

So what should manufacturers do? A panel of experts will discuss tomorrow May 20 during FoodNavigator-USA’s Going Non-GMO online forum the impact of these developments and what factors companies need to consider when weighing whether to go non-GMO.

During the free, online 60 minute discussion, the panel will explore:

The market potential for non-GMO foods and beverages, including how consumers perceive non-GMOs, who wants non-GMO products and how to maximize the impact of such claims.
The current legislative landscape for labeling GMO foods, including an update on state and national bills related to labeling and how these bills could impact firms if passed into law.
How to navigate the process of becoming non-GMO certified, including supply chain management, storage and validation requirements and certification options.

During the last 15 minutes of the discussion, which is sponsored by Farbest Brands and Ingredion, listeners will have a chance to ask questions of the panel, which includes: