Introducing Clean Genes: Why Non-GMO Microorganisms are the Way to Go

We have some exciting news to share that we think you’ll agree aligns perfectly with our ethos of providing natural, clean, health-promoting products. We've recently filed a trademark for Clean Genes!

So, what exactly is Clean Genes? This designation ensures that the bacteria used in our products have not been genetically modified and are free from virulence factors, essentially making them as nature intended. Every day I see new articles about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  But rarely do I see a discussion about the risks that they pose to the environment or our health.  Customers sometimes ask me if our bacterial strains are GMO.  

Why Is This Important?

Back in the 1970’s a group of scientists came together in a conference known as Asilomar.  The purpose of the conference was to address the risks and concerns of genetic modification and to “self-regulate” the research.  The conference opened up the field of “recombinant DNA” research starting with bacteria and plants. The debate around GMOs carries on as more and more genetically modified plants and organisms are produced and introduced in commercial pipelines and scientific research and into our environment.  The debate has been expanded as the field of microbiome research has grown, and companies that want to patent and “own” probiotics push for genetically engineered strains that can be patented as opposed to naturally occurring strains which already have the necessary capabilities but cannot be patented and owned. We're firm in our stance that the manipulation of bacterial genetics carries with it an array of unpredictable and, often, undesirable outcomes.  Research has already shown the presence of genetically modified organisms and genetic engineering vectors in the environment.  

The Fragility of Natural Ecosystems

Mother Nature has spent millions of years fine-tuning intricate ecosystems—a delicate balance of plants, animals, and microbes. Each organism plays its role, and everything is kept in check. When we introduce genetically modified bacteria into such a system, it’s like introducing an alien species into a new habitat. The track record for such interventions, as seen with non-native invasive species, is not good. These newcomers often outcompete, and sometimes even eliminate, native species. While it may sound promising in a short news article about an engineered bacteria “curing cancer,” this likelihood is very remote and the more likely outcome is that a non-native species with no “shut off” is introduced into the system.  

The Slippery Slope of Genetic Modification

Even bacteria that naturally exist in harmony within their environment can become harmful if altered. For example, E. coli is generally a friendly resident of our gut, aiding in digestion. However, certain strains are harmful and even fatal. E coli has been used as the workhorse of genetic engineering and there are many strains with engineered pathogenic genes in laboratories all over the globe. Genetic modifications could accidentally or intentionally magnify these negative traits or even introduce new ones.

No Room for Resistance

One of the most alarming issues related to genetic modification is the potential for bacteria to become resistant to current control methods. The rise of antibiotic-resistant "superbugs" provides a glimpse into how a well-intended modification can backfire dramatically. Most people are not aware that antibiotic resistance genes were early tools in the genetic engineering of plants and were engineered into the seeds stock to verify that the modifications had “taken.”  In our microbiome research we found a higher presence of some of these genes in a number of disease categories in our samples. This is something that should be studied in greater detail.

The Clean Genes Promise

Trust in Nature's Wisdom

Clean Genes stands as our unwavering commitment to respect nature's wisdom. By choosing not to engage in genetic modification, we aim to avoid the unintended and often irreversible consequences associated with tampering with bacterial DNA.

Transparency for All

Our Clean Genes label is your assurance of quality and natural authenticity. We want you to know what you're buying, so you can make the best choices for your health and for our planet.  

Dedication to Robust Science

We believe in supporting rigorous, impartial scientific research. And while the uncertainties surrounding genetically modified bacteria are still numerous, we see this as a realm best left unexplored, given the risks.

Pure Cultures

By using strains that are not genetically modified and are grown individually, the benefits of having pure cultures remains intact with the potential for gene swapping.

What's Next?

We are thrilled about the Clean Genes journey ahead of us, and we hope you join us in celebrating this significant step. We hope to expand the use of this Trademark to other brands and products. We also plan to make this label available to others who will make the commitment not to use genetically modified strains of bacteria in their probiotic formulas.  As always, we remain committed to delivering naturally beneficial products for you to support your health, as nature intended.

Until next time, stay naturally curious, informed, and above all, healthy!