Odds are you’ve seen a non-GMO label on baby formula packaging more than once. There can be no question about it: this information is extremely useful. It helps you make an informed choice. It’s thanks to it you can choose better products for your little one.
But a “GMO-free” caption doesn’t say much. What does it mean? How are products that contain genetically modified ingredients different from regular ones?
GMO-free formula
Non-GMO products are natural. Baby milks without genetically modified components are healthier. These are just a couple of quite common opinions you can hear here and there. People just tend to trust GMO-free foods more. Many moms out there are convinced that this helps them avoid synthetic products and ingredients. After all, they can be allergenic or not easy to digest.
It’s normal to be careful about the foods you give to your baby. But it’s worth noting that GMO-related panic isn’t justified. There is nothing deathly or outright dangerous about genetically modified foods.
Regular formula
Many people choose products they are comfortable with. They want to see an uncomplicated list of ingredients they can understand. Parenting is a 24/7 job and you don’t want to spend extra time researching every little component.
Besides, this kind of formula usually comes with a lesser price tag. For many parents, the unfussiness of the product and lower price seals the deal.
Regular baby food isn’t bad for your little ones. It’s just that in case your child has digestive issues, non-GMO products might be a better choice.
GMO myths
1. All foods nowadays contain GMO ingredients.
Genetic engineering is a costly business. That’s why it’s mainly applied in healthcare and molecular genetics. All products that contain GMOs are certified and marked accordingly.
2. GMO is toxic and products without it are completely healthy.
As a parent, you should know the difference between advertising and reality. GMO products don’t contain toxins. By far not all foods without genetically modified ingredients are completely healthy. For example, when choosing a formula for your baby, watch out for ingredients like starch, soy, corn syrup (and other added sugars), or palm oil.
3. Formulas that contain GMOs are highly allergenic.
Any foods or their ingredients can cause allergies. It’s about individual intolerance for certain components, not GMOs.
Best GMO-free infant foods
All European producers of infant formula have to meet very strict requirements when it comes to the ingredients in their products. Both long-standing market veterans like Holle or HiPP and relatively new brands like Löwenzahn Organics produce only non-GMO baby foods.
Looking for formula that will be easy on your baby’s GIT and unlikely to cause allergies? You might want to pick Holle goat milk formula or Loulouka goat milk-based formula.
GMO is an extremely controversial topic. Especially when it comes to infant foods. When you shop for the right formula for your child, make an informed decision. Rely on common sense and doctor’s recommendations rather than advertising gimmicks.