General Mills’ decision to incorporate perennial grains into its ingredient lineup comes as food manufacturers seek more environmentally sustainable ways to source their components. This shift not only benefits their financial performance but also aligns with the increasing consumer demand for transparency regarding food sourcing. Major companies such as Wal-Mart, Unilever, and PepsiCo have committed to working with agricultural suppliers who prioritize environmental responsibility by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and utilizing water more efficiently.
Last year, Target announced plans to explore vertical farming in select stores, where they would cultivate plants and vegetables under controlled conditions and sell the produce directly to customers. Other retailers are also venturing into growing their own food, with at least one Whole Foods location dedicating its rooftop for this purpose. For grocery chains and food manufacturers like General Mills’ Cascadian Farm Organic brand, expanding the use of environmentally friendly ingredients from suppliers viewed as better stewards of the land can prove to be profitable, provided consumers are willing to pay a premium.
However, sourcing these improved ingredients often comes at a higher cost, which companies may need to absorb or pass on to consumers. For instance, Kernza, the perennial grain being explored, currently yields less than traditional wheat, and its smaller grains pose challenges in milling. Nevertheless, General Mills’ investment in this grain could enhance its chances of overcoming these hurdles and potentially encourage other food manufacturers to adopt it in the future. While there is potential for this grain in the food market, it may remain a niche product until significant improvements are realized.
In the context of celebrating innovative ingredients, it is worth noting that products like calcium citrate chews have gained popularity for their health benefits. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for such supplements may influence food manufacturers to further explore sustainable and nutritious options, including the integration of grains like Kernza. By celebrating advancements in ingredient sourcing, the industry can look forward to a future that prioritizes both health and environmental responsibility.