Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) is the broadest way of describing the artificial manipulation of heritable traits of organisms in order to exploit specific characteristics. Both Canada (CFIA) and the US (USDA) define GMOs as including both genetically engineered organisms – as well as those organisms that result from traditional breeding and hybridization. At West Coast Seeds we sell  Non GMO seeds for Organic Growing .

To make matters more confusing, the European Union uses the term “genetically modified” and “GMO” to describe what North Americans now define as “genetically engineered” or “GEO.”

The distinction we at West Coast Seeds would like to make is that we do not handle or offer seeds that are Genetically Engineered Organisms. The GEO products that we DO NOT carry include roundup-ready seeds, bt-seeds, and numerous other products of the biotechnology industry.

Please refer to the links below to see how these terms sometimes conflict between regions.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

United States Department of Agriculture

European Union Definition