On May 18, 2015, SunOpta Inc., a “company specializing in
the sourcing, processing and packaging of natural, organic and specialty food
products” announced that it has become the first United States food manufacturer
to receive verification under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Process Verified Program (PVP) for non-Genetically Modified (GMO) products. As a result of receiving this verification,
SunOpta, Inc. is now permitted to market specifically approved products as non-GMO.
PVP
is instituted by the federal government as a way for agribusinesses to assure
customers of the quality of services and products provided. By submitting to USDA’s verification methods,
agricultural products that attain PVP approval are permitted to be marketed as “USDA
Process Verified.” Importantly, approved
products are allowed to bear the official “USDA Process Verified” shield and
term.
While PVP is a well-established program, a system for verification
regarding of non-GMO products had not previously existed. Responding to market demand, SunOpta, Inc. voluntarily
approached USDA and requested a method of formal review. As a result of SunOpta, Inc.’s action, other
agricultural companies will now have the ability to submit to PVP procedures
and work towards non-GMO verification.
Written by M. Sean High - Staff Attorney
May 20, 2015
