Genetically modified organisms, also known as GMOs, first became prevalent in the U.S. food supply in the mid-1990s with the introduction of the ‘FlavrSavr’ Tomato.
This tomato was genetically engineered in a laboratory to inhibit a gene that makes them turn squishy.
It was rejected by retailers, leading to its removal from the market.
Since then, the adoption of GMOs has increased, however, and these ingredients are not labeled.
These ingredients have been linked to myriad health problems, as detailed in a database from the non-profit GMO Free USA.
Top Five GMO Supplement Ingredients
The best way to avoid GMOs while purchasing supplements is to buy organic whenever possible.
Some supplements also contain the Non-GMO Project Verified label, or state that they are non-GMO on the package.
If you see any of the following ingredients, you may want to put the supplement back on the shelf. They are made from foodstuffs like corn, soy, canola, and others that are GMO over 90% of the time in the United States.
- Citric Acid-
This additive was originally sourced from lemon juice, but over the years it has become increasingly sourced from GMO black mold.
- Corn Syrup or Corn Starch-
A popular cooking staple and home remedy for centuries, corn is now over 90% GMO in the United States and is heavily sprayed with glyphosate and other toxic herbicides.
- Maltodextrin-
This is typically derived from corn, oftentimes of the GMO variety.
- Soy Lecithin-
This ingredient is typically derived from GMO soy. It is typically used as an emulsifier, lubricant, or flavor protector.
- Xanthan Gum-
Xanthan gum is derived from sugar, and may come from corn, soy or other ingredients.
It may also be created from sugar beets, over 90% of which are GMO in the United States.
This list was produced via our friends at Touchstone Essentials, an organic supplement company selling protein, CBD, green juice powders and more.
To try their products, including my favorite from them, the Organic Super Protein product (which has organic sprouted proteins, superfoods, digestive enzymes and more)