Labelling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods
In Switzerland, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods must be authorised and labelled. This can be done in the ingredients list or alongside the product name.
Which GMOs have to be labelled?
GM products in foods must be labelled in Switzerland. GM products are foods that
- are GMOs
- contain GMOs, or
- are made from GMOs.
Such products require authorisation and must be declared. Examples are soybean oil or soya lecithin if they derive from genetically modified soybeans.
Exempt from the mandatory labelling requirement:
- Unintended traces: If an authorised GM product makes up less than 0.9% of an ingredient, the labelling requirement does not apply. However, distributors and producers must always be able to provide evidence that they have taken the appropriate steps to prevent such traces.
- Products of fermentation: for example vitamins or enzymes that are produced using genetically modified microorganisms in a closed system do not need to be labelled as GM – provided that the product of fermentation is isolated from the organism, chemically defined and purified so that neither the genetically modified organism nor its DNA is detectable in the final product.
No labelling is necessary if a GM product was only used indirectly in production.
For example: Milk from cows fed genetically modified maize does not need to be labelled. The milk does not come from a genetically modified cow, and the maize is not an ingredient or a processing agent of the food on sale to consumers.
More on the authorisation requirement:
Authorisation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods
How should GMO products in foods be labelled?
Consumers must be able to recognise genetically modified organisms (GMOs) from the label – usually in the ingredients list. The wording is specified by law.
If more than one ingredient or substance is affected, the words ‘genetically modified’ may appear in a footnote to the list of ingredients. This must be printed in a font that is at least the same size as the ingredients list. Where there is no list of ingredients, the GM notice must appear alongside the product name.
The following are illustrative examples:
‘GM-free’ labelling
The ‘GM-free’ label is permitted on foods of animal origin if the animals were fed a diet free from genetically modified feed or derived products (such as soy extract). The label provides information on the production method – in particular on feed (see table below).
In addition, the following information must always be clearly visible and legible in the same field of vision:
“The animals were not fed genetically modified feed or feed derived from genetically modified crops.” The information is only complete when both statements are provided.
In organic farming, the use of GMOs is precluded under the Organic Farming Ordinance. The conditions for ‘GM-free’ negative labelling are already met and an additional ‘GM free’ label is therefore superfluous.
A study into the use of this label in Switzerland was conducted between April 2023 and January 2024. The final report (in German only) and an executive summary (in German and French) are available here: