As consumers become increasingly health-conscious and environmentally aware, the demand for non-GMO products has skyrocketed. One of the most iconic American chocolate brands, Hershey’s, has been at the forefront of this conversation. But is Hershey’s non-GMO? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), explore Hershey’s stance on the issue, and examine the ingredients and manufacturing processes that go into making their beloved chocolate products.
What are GMOs, and Why Do They Matter?
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This involves introducing genes from one species into the DNA of another species to introduce new traits or characteristics. In the context of food production, GMOs are often used to increase crop yields, improve disease resistance, and enhance nutritional content.
However, the use of GMOs in food production has sparked controversy and debate. Some of the concerns surrounding GMOs include:
- Potential health risks: Some studies have suggested that GMOs may be linked to increased allergies, antibiotic resistance, and other health problems.
- Environmental impact: The use of GMOs has been linked to the development of “superweeds” and “superpests” that are resistant to pesticides and herbicides.
- Lack of transparency: Many consumers are concerned about the lack of labeling and transparency surrounding GMOs in food products.
The Rise of Non-GMO Certification
In response to growing consumer demand for non-GMO products, the Non-GMO Project was established in 2007. The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization that provides third-party verification and labeling for products that meet their standards for GMO avoidance.
To be certified by the Non-GMO Project, products must undergo rigorous testing and meet strict standards for GMO avoidance. This includes:
- Testing for GMOs: Products must be tested for the presence of GMOs using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing.
- Supply chain verification: Manufacturers must verify that their suppliers are also compliant with Non-GMO Project standards.
- Annual audits: Manufacturers must undergo annual audits to ensure ongoing compliance with Non-GMO Project standards.
Hershey’s Stance on GMOs
So, is Hershey’s non-GMO? The answer is a bit complicated. While Hershey’s does offer some non-GMO certified products, not all of their products meet these standards.
In 2015, Hershey’s announced that they would be transitioning to non-GMO ingredients in some of their products, including their iconic Milk Chocolate Bars. However, this transition was not company-wide, and many Hershey’s products still contain GMOs.
Hershey’s Non-GMO Certified Products
Some Hershey’s products that are non-GMO certified include:
- Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars: These bars are made with non-GMO milk and do not contain any GMO-derived ingredients.
- Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Bars: Some of Hershey’s dark chocolate bars are non-GMO certified, although not all varieties meet this standard.
However, it’s worth noting that even non-GMO certified products may still contain some GMO-derived ingredients. This is because the Non-GMO Project allows for small amounts of GMOs to be present in certified products, as long as they are below a certain threshold.
What About Hershey’s Other Products?
While some Hershey’s products are non-GMO certified, many others are not. This includes:
- Hershey’s Kisses: These bite-sized chocolate drops contain GMO-derived ingredients, including high-fructose corn syrup and soy lecithin.
- Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Creme Bars: These bars contain GMO-derived ingredients, including corn syrup and soy lecithin.
Ingredients and Manufacturing Processes
So, what’s in Hershey’s chocolate products, and how are they made? Here’s a breakdown of some of the key ingredients and manufacturing processes used by Hershey’s:
- Cocoa beans: Hershey’s sources their cocoa beans from a variety of countries, including Ghana, Indonesia, and Ecuador.
- Sugar: Hershey’s uses a combination of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup in many of their products.
- Milk: Hershey’s uses milk from a variety of sources, including dairy farms and milk processing plants.
- Emulsifiers: Hershey’s uses emulsifiers like soy lecithin and polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) to improve the texture and shelf life of their products.
In terms of manufacturing processes, Hershey’s uses a combination of traditional chocolate-making techniques and modern technology. This includes:
- Roasting: Hershey’s roasts their cocoa beans to bring out the flavor and aroma.
- Winnowing: Hershey’s uses a process called winnowing to separate the cocoa nibs from the shells.
- Conching: Hershey’s uses a conching process to mix and aerate their chocolate, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
Conclusion
While Hershey’s does offer some non-GMO certified products, not all of their products meet these standards. As a consumer, it’s essential to read labels carefully and look for third-party certifications like the Non-GMO Project. By doing so, you can make informed choices about the products you choose to support.
Ultimately, the decision to choose non-GMO products is a personal one. Whether you’re concerned about potential health risks, environmental impact, or simply want to support more transparent and sustainable food systems, there are many reasons to choose non-GMO products.
As the demand for non-GMO products continues to grow, it’s likely that more companies will follow in Hershey’s footsteps and offer non-GMO certified options. Until then, it’s up to consumers to stay informed and advocate for the products and practices they believe in.
Is Hershey’s Non-GMO?
Hershey’s has made efforts to offer non-GMO options in some of their products. However, not all Hershey’s products are non-GMO. The company has committed to sourcing non-GMO ingredients for certain product lines, such as their Simple Pleasures and Brookside brands.
It’s essential to note that while Hershey’s has made strides in offering non-GMO options, the company still uses genetically modified ingredients in many of their products. Consumers who prioritize non-GMO products should carefully check the ingredient labels or look for certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal.
What Hershey’s products are non-GMO?
Some Hershey’s products that are non-GMO include their Simple Pleasures chocolates, which are made with non-GMO ingredients and do not contain artificial preservatives or flavors. Additionally, Hershey’s Brookside products, such as their soft and chewy caramels, are also non-GMO.
It’s worth noting that Hershey’s non-GMO product offerings may vary by region and country. Consumers should check the ingredient labels or consult the company’s website to confirm which products are non-GMO in their area.
Does Hershey’s use genetically modified ingredients?
Yes, Hershey’s still uses genetically modified ingredients in many of their products. The company sources ingredients from various suppliers, and some of these ingredients may be genetically modified. For example, Hershey’s uses high-fructose corn syrup, which is often derived from genetically modified corn.
However, Hershey’s has committed to sourcing non-GMO ingredients for certain product lines, and the company is working to increase its use of non-GMO ingredients across its portfolio. Consumers who prioritize non-GMO products should check the ingredient labels or look for certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal.
Is Hershey’s committed to sustainability and non-GMO sourcing?
Yes, Hershey’s has made commitments to sustainability and non-GMO sourcing. The company has set goals to source 100% certified sustainable cocoa by 2025 and to reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, Hershey’s has committed to sourcing non-GMO ingredients for certain product lines.
Hershey’s sustainability efforts also include reducing waste, conserving water, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. While the company still has work to do in terms of non-GMO sourcing, its commitments to sustainability and responsible sourcing are steps in the right direction.
How can I identify non-GMO Hershey’s products?
Consumers can identify non-GMO Hershey’s products by checking the ingredient labels for certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. This seal indicates that the product has met rigorous standards for non-GMO sourcing.
Additionally, consumers can check the company’s website or consult with customer service to confirm which products are non-GMO. It’s also essential to note that even if a product is non-GMO, it may still contain other ingredients that some consumers may be sensitive to, such as dairy or soy.
Are all Hershey’s products labeled as non-GMO?
No, not all Hershey’s products are labeled as non-GMO. While the company has made efforts to offer non-GMO options, many of its products still contain genetically modified ingredients. Consumers should check the ingredient labels or look for certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal to confirm whether a product is non-GMO.
It’s also worth noting that even if a product is not labeled as non-GMO, it may still contain some non-GMO ingredients. However, without certification or clear labeling, consumers cannot be certain about the product’s GMO status.
Can I trust Hershey’s non-GMO claims?
Hershey’s non-GMO claims are verified by third-party certifications like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. This seal indicates that the product has met rigorous standards for non-GMO sourcing.
However, as with any food company, it’s essential for consumers to remain vigilant and check the ingredient labels or consult with customer service to confirm the non-GMO status of a product. While Hershey’s has made efforts to offer non-GMO options, the company is not perfect, and consumers should always prioritize their own research and due diligence.