Bioengineered food ingredients refer to food that contains genetic material that has been modified through certain laboratory techniques and for which the modification could not be obtained through conventional breeding or found in nature. Bioengineered foods include certain types of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and are labeled as such for marketing purposes. The labeling of bioengineered foods is required by law, and food manufacturers must include one of four labeling options on the packaging:
- The words “bioengineered food” for single-ingredient foods or “contains a bioengineered food ingredient” printed on the packaging.
- One of two logos approved by the USDA.
- An electronic or digital link (QR code) with the printed instructions to access the disclosure.
Highly refined ingredients (like some sugars and oils) and foods that are primarily meat, poultry, or egg products do not require a bioengineered food disclosure.
