A high-risk crop is one that is widely grown in a genetically engineered form, which means any ingredient derived from it carries a higher chance of containing modified genetic material. In non-GMO verification these inputs get the closest scrutiny — supplier declarations, identity-preserved sourcing and, where needed, testing. The Non-GMO Project lists ten high-risk crops (nongmoproject.org, checked 2026).
In depth
The Non-GMO Project lists ten high-risk crops: alfalfa, apple, canola, corn, cotton, papaya, potato, soy, sugar beet and zucchini (nongmoproject.org, checked 2026). A handful of these — corn, soy, canola and sugar beet — flow into a very large share of packaged foods as oils, starches, sweeteners and emulsifiers.
For a non-GMO claim, a reviewer focuses on where these inputs come from. An ingredient made from a high-risk crop needs a supplier declaration of its source, and often identity-preserved documentation or a test result, before it can sit under the claim.
Inputs from low-risk crops carry a lighter burden of proof. See GMO and bioengineered for the underlying definitions.
Related marks
- Non-GMOStrongest as part of a bundle.
Related terms
- GMO (genetically modified organism) — A GMO is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering rather than conventional breeding.
- Bioengineered (BE) — Bioengineered (BE) is the USDA's regulatory term for a food containing detectable genetic material that was modified through genetic engineering.
- Supplier declaration — A supplier declaration is a written statement from a supplier confirming facts about an ingredient, such as its source, composition or processing.