Do you use genetically modified (GM) corn in your products?

Our corn PLA resin is is a mixed stream of non-GM and GM corn. During the manufacturing of PLA, the multiple-stage processing and high heat used to create the polymer removes all traces of genetic material, rendering it inert once it has been made into resin. Therefore, there is no GM material in our products, even though the feedstock is GM.

Nonetheless, we would prefer that only non-GM plants were used to make in the PLA in our products. Unfortunately, today the vast majority of corn grown is genetically modified. To be assured of non-GM feedstock, we would need to source PLA made only from USDA certified organic corn. Doing this is technically and economically impractical. It would price our products beyond the reach of many potential customers.

We recognize the value of sustainable, organic agriculture and follow the debate and the scientific research surrounding GM crops. One day, we hope to bring you exclusively non-GM PLA, but unfortunately the infrastructure is not there yet for us – or our industry.