Non-GMO Foods Are Selling Well, Though They Are Not Necessarily Organic

American and international food authorities continue to reassure consumers that GMO foods are safe, but the message may not be sinking in, a market researcher says. Retail sales of non-GMO foods and beverages were about $200 billion in 2014, and will rise 65 percent to $330 billion by 2019. This contrasts with an expected 13 percent growth rate for all foods and beverages. However, there is some confusion in the market. Consumers often assume that non-GMO foods are organic. But, though all organic foods are non-GMO, not all non-GMO foods are organic. Non-GMO foods are certified after testing by private organizations like the Non-GMO Project. Organic certification is overseen by the federal government, which makes sure synthetic fertilizers and pesticides – and GMO ingredients – are not used in production. Bottom line: retail sales of less heavily regulated non-GMO products are outpacing sales of foods labeled organic.