What Is GMO Hemp? Benefits and Risks in Modern Agriculture

When you hear “GMO,” your mind may think of produce and other food items. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be plants, animals, or other organisms whose DNA has been altered using technology. Some of our largest food crops, like corn, potatoes, and soybeans, have been genetically modified in some way. GMOs aren’t necessarily a bad thing. In most cases, genetic modifications are made to make the crop more resilient to herbicides, pests, and other environmental conditions. So, does genetically modified hemp exist, and if so, why?

No, hemp is not considered to be a GMO crop. Most hemp plants are developed through traditional breeding, which means growers select plants with desirable traits and crossbreed them. This is done without changing the plant’s DNA in a laboratory, which is the case with actual GMO plants.

While two genetically engineered hemp strains do exist, the vast majority of hemp on the market is not genetically modified.

GMO hemp plants will look like any other high-CBD plants, with specific genetic modifications to their DNA. Genetically modified hemp will appear in a similar structure to all cannabis plants, with dense or fluffy green buds covered in trichomes. Different strains of genetically modified hemp may produce different variations in their appearance, just like high THC cannabis.

While there may be some skeptical consumers, GMO cannabis plants are not harmful to consume or inhale. Genetically modified hemp is just as safe to use as regular hemp plants.

Growing Together Research produced the first USDA-approved genetically modified hemp plant. This particular crop was created to contain absolutely zero THC and zero CBC. In addition, the plant is resistant to an herbicide called bialaphos.

Recently, the USDA approved a second GMO hemp strain called “Badger G.” This strain, created by the University of Wisconsin’s Crop Innovation Center, was genetically modified to “knockout” or deactivate the genes encoded in the plant needed for CBD and THC production, leaving just high levels of cannabigerol (CBG).

The main difference between GMO and non-GMO hemp is genetic alteration. GMO hemp strains, like Badger G, have had specific genes, such as THCAS and CBDAS, edited or removed.

This means that those genetically modified hemp strains will not produce any level of THC or CBD. These plants can be an excellent tool for growers who need to meet the strict regulatory limits of these cannabinoids in the hemp market.

Non-GMO hemp strains are produced using traditional breeding methods, similar to how cannabis strains are made. This involves growers selecting and crossbreeding two parent plants with desirable traits like pest resistance, flavor, or cannabinoid balance. Unlike GMO hemp, non-GMO hemp will never have genes edited or removed.

Potential benefits of GMO may include:

• Cannabinoid profile consistency: When growing genetically modified hemp, the main draw is that there is no risk of accidentally producing high THC levels. The two genetically modified hemp plants approved by the USDA are bred to produce no THC.

Potential risks of GMO hemp may include:

• Seed patents: Patents for certain genetically modified hemp varieties may create restrictions among small growers.
• Regulatory uncertainty: Just like with semi-synthetic cannabinoids, GMO hemp may have restrictions put on its creation and production, limiting the industrial hemp industry.
• Consumer skepticism: Like with many GMO products, consumers feel uncertain about their potential impact on the body and may opt to avoid GMO cannabis and hemp varieties.

Are genetically modified hemp seeds safe to eat?

Yes, genetically modified hemp seeds are safe to eat, just like any other genetically modified crops.

How can I identify non-GMO hemp products?

While only two genetically modified hemp plants are approved by the USDA, it’s important to know how to identify a non-genetically modified hemp product. Look at the product’s labeling and check for a GMO symbol. Under U.S. law, all GMO products must have identifiers saying they have been made with bioengineered ingredients. If the product doesn’t have this identifier, it is likely not a product of genetic engineering. Other indicators that the product is a non-genetically modified hemp product are if they are labeled as Organic.

Is the GMO weed strain GMO hemp?

No, the GMO weed strain is not the same as GMO hemp. The GMO cannabis strain is a plant bred by plant breeders through traditional cross-breeding of two parent plants.

What strains make GMO?

The GMO cannabis strain was created by breeding together Chemdawg and GSC (Girl Scout Cookie).

Is GMO hemp legal in all states?

Yes, genetically modified hemp is legal in all states. With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, any hemp plant or hemp-derived product with less than a 0.3% THC level is legal to sell and possess.