Orkla’s Policy on GMOs
Orkla companies use only raw materials and ingredients that are based on traditional production methods in which the plant or animal has been developed and bred without the use of modern gene technology.
Orkla places great emphasis on creating trust and confidence. Orkla products shall therefore be based on safe raw materials and be produced using methods that are accepted by customers and consumers.
Orkla is conscious of the customers’ and consumers’ attitudes to the use of modern gene technology in the production of food and has adopted a wait-and-see policy because a clear majority of consumers on its main markets do not accept the use of genetically modified raw materials and ingredients.
Policy
This policy applies to all Orkla’s food producing companies in respect of raw materials and ingredients to be used in the production of food as well as final products contracted and sold in the name of an Orkla company.
Orkla companies use only raw materials and ingredients that are based on traditional production methods in which the plant or animal has been developed and bred without the use of modern gene technology.
Orkla companies are aware that certain traditional crops (primarily soy, maize and rapeseed), as well as products made from these, may contain traces of GMO material due to the unintentional introduction of seed, crop or product. The maximum quantity of such traces that does not require GMO labelling is laid down in the European GMO legislation.
Orkla companies require suppliers of certain crops to establish verified systems for separation, documentation and analysis to assure the origin and quality of products, for example the absence of unintentionally introduced GMO material.
Orkla companies comply with EU legislation, national legislation and the requirements of the authorities regarding GMO, and take all necessary steps to ensure that no Orkla product require GMO labelling. If a company is considering marketing and selling products that require GMO labelling, this matter must be approved by the Board of Directors of Orkla.