The Safe Seed Pledge

NE Seed is Proud to be a No-GMO Seed Company.

We only sell seeds created by traditional breeding practices. To use the example of tomatoes:

GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) an analog to the scientific description GE (Genetically Engineered) Vs. Hybrid Seeds (defined as F1 (Hybrid) Vs. Open Pollinated Seeds (defined as OP or H (Heirloom).

A GMO is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques at the DNA level. A GMO tomato could be created using genes from a salmon to make a tomato resistant to cold temperatures. NE Seed has signed the Safe Seed pledge and does NOT sell GMO seeds.

A Hybrid tomato (F1) is created by cross-pollinating two different tomato varieties (much like bees do in nature). The seed resulting from this cross-pollination is a Hybrid.

An Open Pollinated (OP or H) tomato is the result of a tomato that pollinates itself. For example, a Brandywine tomato has a Brandywine tomato as both the female and male parent.

The Safe Seed Pledge Agriculture and seeds provide the basis upon which our lives depend. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. For the benefit of all farmers, gardeners and consumers who want an alternative, We pledge that we do not knowingly buy or sell genetically engineered seeds or plants. The mechanical transfer of genetic material outside of natural reproductive methods and between genera, families or kingdoms, poses great biological risks as well as economic, political, and cultural threats. We feel that genetically engineered varieties have been insufficiently tested prior to public release. More research and testing is necessary to further assess the potential risks of genetically engineered seeds. Further, we wish to support agricultural progress that leads to healthier soils, genetically diverse agricultural ecosystems and ultimately people and communities.