The Organic & Non-GMO Report Newsletter

GMO 2.0 stevia hits the market, unregulated, unlabeled

A “next gen” sweetener called EverSweet, that uses genetically engineered yeast to convert sugar molecules to mimic the stevia plant, is now available in commercial quantities. Cargill and synthetic biology pioneer Evolva are targeting the product to producers of low- and zero-calorie cola drinks, claiming its taste is sweeter and more “rounded,” without the bitter […]

GMOs failed to impress—GMOs 2.0 may be even riskier

 Despite 20 years of genetically modified organisms infiltrating grocery brands, millions of Americans still go hungry—and we’re seeing huge rises in use of dangerous pesticides like glyphosate, dicamba, and soon, 2,4-D. GMOs haven’t lived up to the hype, and continue to pose risks: the plant-based Impossible Burger, using GM yeast and a GM soy-induced protein […]

China in no hurry to approve GM food crops

China’s Ministry of Agriculture says no genetically modified food crops have been approved, and if they are, they will have to be grown observing all laws and regulations. Spokesman Pan Xianzheng added, “Only through safe inspection and assessment can a genetically modified breed receive the MOA safety certificate.” China is prioritizing consumer opinion on GMOs […]

U.S., EU regulators approve Bayer-Monsanto merger, U.S. farmers concerned

“Merger from hell” creates world’s largest agribusiness corporation The U.S. Justice Department recently announced that it would allow German drugs and pesticides group Bayer AG to acquire Monsanto Co. in a controversial $62.5 billion deal, after the companies agreed to sell more assets to win antitrust approval. This follows the European Commission also saying it […]

Senator McConnell to introduce legislation to legalize hemp production in the U.S.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) recently announced that he would introduce legislation in the United States Senate to support the burgeoning hemp industry. The Hemp Farming Act of 2018 will legalize hemp as an agricultural commodity and remove it from the list of controlled substances where it is now listed with its closely […]