Non-GMO products are made without genetically modified organisms — crops or microorganisms whose DNA has been altered through genetic engineering.
The most recognized verification in North America is the Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly seal, which requires testing of major risk ingredients (corn, soy, canola, sugar beet, cotton, alfalfa, papaya) and a contamination threshold below 0.9%, matching the European Union limit.
Non-GMO does not imply organic — non-GMO crops may still be grown with synthetic pesticides. For both standards, look for products that carry USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified seals.