Nutrasource Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Services has earned a U.S. patent on “methods for detecting genetically modified organisms” for its IGEN certification program. The International Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) Evaluation and Notification program verifies label claims about the presence of GMOs in products and ingredients.
 
“We are thrilled to announce the reception of this patent for our IGEN program, as we continuously aim to increase consumer confidence promoting transparency,” said William Rowe, president and CEO of Nutrasource. “The IGEN certification program was designed specifically to certify that any product, from herbal supplements and vitamins to food ingredients do not contain any of the GMO genes and proteins found in common bioengineered crops.”
 
Despite consumer demand for GMO labeling, the U.S. FDA and Health Canada do not require companies to declare a product’s GMO status. The IGEN certification mark offers peace of mind for shoppers. As a third-party program, IGEN works by encouraging food and dietary supplement companies to voluntarily test their products for the presence of GMOs and showcase their GMO status on their labels.
 
“While there is no conclusive evidence that GMOs have a direct or immediate effect on human health, many are concerned about the long-term health and environmental impacts of genetic engineering,” said Rowe. “As a result, consumers are demanding that GMO products be labeled so they can be better informed on what they are purchasing.”
 
Currently, Whole Foods Market requires non-GMO label claims on products found in stores to be substantiated to one of these third-party standards:
 

• Non-GMO Project
• NSF Non-GMO
• USDA Organic (or equivalent international program)
• Nutrasource iGen (for supplements only)