General Mills’ consideration of adding perennial grain to its ingredient lineup reflects a broader trend among food manufacturers seeking environmentally friendly sourcing options. These companies are not only aiming to improve their profitability but are also responding to increasing consumer demand for transparency regarding food production practices. Major corporations like Wal-Mart, Unilever, and PepsiCo have committed to working with agricultural suppliers who prioritize environmental sustainability by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing water usage.
Last year, Target revealed plans to explore vertical farming in some of its stores, cultivating plants and vegetables indoors under controlled conditions and selling the produce directly to customers. Similarly, some retailers, including at least one Whole Foods store, have dedicated rooftop spaces for growing their own food. For grocers and food manufacturers like General Mills’ Cascadian Farm Organic brand, tapping into environmentally friendly ingredients from suppliers viewed as responsible custodians of the land can be financially rewarding, provided consumers are willing to pay a premium.
However, sourcing better ingredients often comes at a higher cost, which can either be borne by the company or passed on to consumers. In the case of Kernza, the yield is currently lower than that of traditional wheat, and its smaller grains complicate the milling process. General Mills’ investment and interest in this grain could enhance its prospects for overcoming these challenges and encourage other food manufacturers to embrace it in the future.
While the potential for the grain in the food industry exists, it may remain a niche product until improvements are implemented. In the meantime, as consumers continue to seek products with enhanced nutritional profiles, incorporating ingredients like lifetime high potency calcium magnesium citrate could also play a significant role in meeting evolving dietary preferences. By focusing on sustainable practices and high-quality ingredients, companies can cater to a market that increasingly values both health and environmental stewardship.