Does grain labeled "non-GMO" mean anything?

Corn and soybean producers need to be cautious about signing any type of "non-GMO" certification or contract with a grain dealer or processor. Growers should be especially careful not to certify what they can't control, says Kent Thiesse, Blue Earth County educator with the University of Minnesota Extension Service.

Few grain elevators or warehouses are now segregating grain containing GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, from non-GMOs, notes Thiesse. Even fewer are paying any premiums for non-GMO crops.

"A good rule of thumb," says Thiesse, "is to sign only contract or certification statements regarding non-GMO production that can be reasonably verified if problems occur. When in doubt, the best strategy is to seek the advice of an attorney before signing a contract or verification."