Canola oil is a common cooking oil found in many kitchens and processed foods. However, questions often arise about whether canola oil is a GMO (genetically modified organism) food. The short answer is that while much of the canola grown is genetically modified, non-GMO canola does exist. Let’s explore the details.
The Origins of Canola
Canola originates from the rapeseed plant, a member of the same family as cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and turnips. Rapeseed has been used in Asian cuisines for thousands of years. Canada began cultivating rapeseed during World War II for engine lubricant production.
However, rapeseed oil in its original form had limitations for human consumption. It contained high levels of erucic acid, linked to potential heart problems, and glucosinolates, resulting in a bitter taste. In the 1970s, researchers in Canada used traditional crossbreeding techniques to develop rapeseed varieties with low erucic acid and glucosinolates.
In 1974, the first low erucic acid, low glucosinolate rapeseed variety was registered. By 1978, it was named “canola,” derived from “can” for Canadian and “ola” for oil. This development occurred well before the introduction of GMOs into the food supply. Therefore, the original canola was developed through traditional breeding methods, not genetic modification.
GMO Canola: A More Recent Development
Genetically modified canola was introduced in Canada in 1995. This GMO canola was engineered to be tolerant to the herbicide glyphosate.
A blooming canola field, showcasing the vast landscapes where this crop is cultivated.
Herbicide-tolerant crops allow farmers to spray herbicides directly on their fields to control weeds without harming the canola plants. While offering convenience, the widespread adoption of GMO canola has led to increased herbicide use and the emergence of herbicide-resistant superweeds.
The small size of canola seeds (approximately 1 mm) and the wind dispersal of pollen made containment challenging. GMO canola spread rapidly, leading to widespread contamination. Within seven years of its introduction, GMO contamination was pervasive in Canada. To mitigate contamination, non-GMO canola farmers now grow their crops in geographically isolated regions.
The Prevalence of GMO vs. Non-GMO Canola
Today, most of the canola grown in North America is genetically modified. However, non-GMO canola still exists, representing a small percentage of the total crop. It’s estimated that around 5% of U.S.-grown canola and 3% of Canadian-grown canola is non-GMO.
Close-up view of canola seeds, highlighting their small size and importance in oil production.
Navigating Labeling and Avoiding GMO Canola Oil
In the U.S., the Bioengineered (BE) Food labeling law may not require labels on products made with GMO canola oil. This is because canola oil undergoes extensive refining, removing detectable modified DNA. As a result, canola oil derived entirely from GMO crops may not be labeled as GMO.
If you prefer non-GMO canola oil, looking for products with the Non-GMO Project Verified Butterfly label is your best option. The Non-GMO Project Standard requires verified canola oil to be traced back to non-GMO crops throughout the supply chain.
Conclusion
While the majority of canola oil on the market is derived from genetically modified canola, non-GMO options are available. By understanding the origins of canola, the development of GMO varieties, and the complexities of food labeling, consumers can make informed choices about the canola oil they purchase. Supporting non-GMO choices through purchasing Non-GMO Project Verified products helps preserve the availability of non-GMO canola and supports farmers who cultivate it.
