AstaReal announced recently that its antoxidant dietary supplement, “Natural Astaxanthin,” is the first to receive non-GMO status from NSF, the Public Health and Safety Organization.

AstaReal, which has a $34 million, 59,000-square-foot facility in Moses Lake, received the notification in December, along with a letter of compliance from NSF, stating that its Astaxanthin had been found to be in compliance with the Non-GMO Project standard.

“GMO” is shorthand for genetically modified organisms. The World Health Organization defines GMO foods as "foods derived from organisms whose genetic material (DNA) has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally, e.g. through the introduction of a gene from a different organism," and says "most existing genetically modified crops have been developed to increase yield."

With the rise in popularity of raw and organic foods, many people are concerned about consuming GMO's. Though astaxanthin is an ingredient and not a stand-alone food, AstaReal's non-GMO status is a significant distinction. AstaReal's National Sales Manager Joe Kuncewitch said, "This is very exciting, not just for us as a supplier, but also for our customers. We're constantly working to deliver the best natural astaxanthin product to the consumer...this non-GMO verification is our commitment to that promise."

AstaReal President and CEO Charles DePrince issued a similar statement. "We will continue to dedicate resources to programs like this to further attest our dedication to supply the highest quality, natural astaxanthin to the world."

AstaReal's website describes astaxanthin as the "naturally occurring carotenoid" that turns shrimp and other cooked seafood red.

Yusoko Kuroda, Vice President of AstaReal, said the company is now focused on getting more certifications for AstaReal's different types of astaxanthin. The next one she's expecting is a kosher certification for a powdered astaxanthin drink mix. Kuroda added that these certifications aren't just a matter of getting a stamp of approval; they must be applied for.