Is Modern Wheat Genetically Modified? | Non-GMO Wheat Explained

Is Modern Wheat Genetically Modified?

No — most modern wheat is not genetically modified (GMO). The wheat that is used to make our wheat flours is made from traditional and conventionally bred varieties, not genetically engineered ones.

No products in our range have been genetically modified.

What’s the difference between GMO and conventional breeding?

  • Conventional breeding (like crossbreeding and selection) is how most modern wheat varieties, including high-yielding ones, are developed.
  • GMO (genetically modified organism) refers to crops whose DNA has been altered using laboratory techniques, often involving genes from unrelated species.
Modern wheat has been selectively bred for yield, height and disease resistance, but not via genetic modification

What about the dwarf gene or "Mexican dwarf gene"  in wheat?

Many modern wheat varieties contain the "dwarfing genes" (such as Rht1 and Rht2) introduced in the mid-20th century during the Green Revolution.  

  • These genes help create shorter, sturdier wheat plants.
  • They were introduced through natural crossbreeding, not genetic engineering.
  • This makes them non-GMO by any international standards

Most modern wheat flours, including organic flours are made from "modern wheat".
If you are looking for ancient grain flours or alternatives to modern wheat flours, try these options

Ancient grain flours

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