Orchards are heavy with fruit, and apple trees are bending under the weight of this season’s harvest. It’s the perfect time to bring awareness to a subject I’m deeply passionate about: natural, sustainable, and non-GMO practices.

Welcome back to Oceans Bliss Portal! 

Apples are a high-risk crop when it comes to genetic modification. Unless you’re intentionally seeking out organic, non-GMO versions, there’s a good chance you’re biting into a GMO apple. Many GMO apples on the market have undergone a biotechnology technique called RNA interference, which “silences” the gene controlling the PPO enzyme—this is what stops apples from turning brown.

You might have heard of the non-browning GMO ‘Arctic’ apples, available in Golden Delicious and Granny Smith varieties. But did you know that GMO Gala and Fuji apples are also in development? It’s becoming more challenging to know exactly what’s in your produce basket.

So, are GMO apples labeled? Unfortunately, the Bioengineered labeling law falls short in providing clear, straightforward information to consumers. This leaves the responsibility on us to stay informed and proactive. If you want to avoid GMO apples, here’s what you can do:

Ask Questions: Speak directly with your local grocers or farmers. Ask them about the sourcing of their apples.

Look for Labels: Seek out organic or non-GMO verified labels, which are more likely to ensure the apples are not genetically modified.

Shop Local: Visit farmers’ markets where you can have conversations with the growers themselves.

Stay Educated: Join non-GMO groups or follow trusted sources that keep up with the latest in food labeling and biotechnology.

Remember, a non-GMO apple a day truly keeps the doctor away.

Thank you to my apple farming friends and fellow orchardists who are committed to keeping the public educated and apples natural. Together, we can support sustainable practices and make informed choices for our health and the environment.

Bliss xo