Quick answer: A non-GMO statement is a written declaration from a supplier that an ingredient is not made from genetically modified organisms and does not contain GMO material above a set threshold. Buyers use it to support their own labelling and customer requirements. Rules differ by market: the EU has labelling thresholds, the US has bioengineered food disclosure rules, and private programmes offer verification.
Key takeaways – A non-GMO statement declares that an ingredient is not from GMOs. – It supports the buyer’s labelling and compliance. – Thresholds and rules differ by market. – Private verification programmes add extra assurance.
What is a GMO?
A genetically modified organism is a plant, animal or microorganism whose genetic material has been changed using modern biotechnology. Common GM crops include some types of corn, soy, canola, cotton and sugar beet. Coconut sugar is made from coconut flower sap, and coconut is not among the crops commonly grown as GM varieties.
What does a non-GMO statement include?
| Part | Example content |
|---|---|
| Product | Name and code of the ingredient |
| Declaration | Not produced from GMOs |
| Processing aids | Confirmation that any aids used are non-GMO |
| Scope | Which products and sites are covered |
| Validity | Date and review period |
| Signature | Responsible person at the supplier |
Which rules apply?
- European Union: foods containing or made from GMOs must be labelled. Adventitious presence below 0.9 percent of an approved GMO, if technically unavoidable, does not need labelling.
- United States: the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requires disclosure for certain bioengineered foods.
- Other markets: many countries have their own labelling rules.
What about non-GMO verification?
Private programmes, such as the Non-GMO Project in North America, verify products against their own standards, often including testing of high-risk ingredients. Organic standards also prohibit the use of GMOs, so certified organic ingredients come with an extra layer of control.
What should buyers check?
- The statement covers the exact product and site.
- It is signed and dated.
- It includes processing aids and carriers if relevant.
- It is consistent with the specification and other documents.
- It is reviewed regularly, for example once a year.
Why does it matter for coconut sugar?
Pure coconut sugar is a single ingredient, which makes non-GMO statements simple. Blends with anti-caking agents, flavourings or other sweeteners need each component checked. Many buyers ask for the statement as part of supplier approval, along with allergen and gluten statements.
How should brands use non-GMO claims?
Only make non-GMO claims on labels if they meet the rules in your market and, where needed, a verification programme. Avoid suggesting that non-GMO products are healthier.
Where does IMC fit?
PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) has produced coconut sugar in Central Java since 2012 and exports to customers abroad, including the USA. IMC offers mesh 14 and mesh 50 granules in paper bags with a food-grade PE liner. Buyers can ask the IMC team for a non-GMO statement with their specification.
FAQ
Is coconut sugar a GMO product? Coconut is not among commonly grown GM crops, and pure coconut sugar is a single ingredient.
What is the EU GMO threshold? 0.9 percent adventitious presence of approved GMOs, when unavoidable.
Do organic products allow GMOs? No. Organic standards prohibit GMOs.
How often should statements be updated? Usually at least once a year.
Looking for a reliable coconut sugar partner? Contact PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) in Central Java, Indonesia: info@organic-coconut-sugar.com or WhatsApp +62 811 880 62273.
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