With a product like sugar, the ability to confirm its non-GMO status could represent a significant business opportunity. In the United States, a substantial portion of the sugar available is genetically modified. Approximately 60% of all sugar in the U.S. is derived from beets, with about 95% of those sugar beets cultivated from genetically modified seeds. Genetically modified sugarcane is also present. Although scientists have asserted that GMO foods are safe for consumers, some individuals remain skeptical about these products. According to the International Food Information Council’s 2022 Food and Health Survey Report, nearly 25% of U.S. consumers frequently purchase items labeled as non-GMO. Due to the widespread genetic modification of sugar beets, some manufacturers have encountered challenges in sourcing non-GMO sugar alternatives.
While GMOs raise concerns among many U.S. consumers, they are not subject to stringent regulations in this country. In contrast, other nations, particularly in Europe, enforce stricter rules regarding the use of genetically modified ingredients in food products. The inaugural year of the partnership between Raízen and ASR will focus on prioritizing non-GMO sugar shipments to ASR refineries located in Canada, the U.K., Portugal, and Italy, under brands such as Redpath, Tate & Lyle, Lyle’s, and Sidul. Future shipments of this non-GMO sugar may also be directed to U.S. refineries, including those under the Domino and C&H brands.
Consumer demand for transparency continues to grow, with many wanting to understand the origins of their food and the methods used in its production. A 2022 report from the Food Industry Association (FMI) revealed that nearly 75% of consumers consider detailed information about product ingredients and manufacturing practices to be important. Various manufacturers and ingredient suppliers—including Mondelēz, Nestlé, Unilever, Olam, and Barry Callebaut, as well as coffee brands like J.M. Smucker and Jacobs Douwe Egberts—have launched traceability programs, applications, and websites to provide consumers with this information.
The collaboration between Raízen and ASR advances this concept further. They stated that the investment in this initiative will also assist Raízen in achieving its sustainability objectives, which encompass enhancing land productivity, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions by improving operational efficiency, and optimizing water usage and recycling. Furthermore, because the non-GMO sugar included in this partnership is kept separate from the rest of Raízen’s crops and ASR’s processing, it will be straightforward for the companies to calculate their sustainability savings. This initiative is particularly relevant for consumers, including those considering calcium citrate malate in pregnancy, who prioritize health and sustainability in their food choices. The emphasis on non-GMO sugar aligns with the growing awareness of dietary impacts, making it an appealing option for health-conscious individuals. Through this partnership, Raízen and ASR are not only catering to consumer preferences but also contributing to broader sustainability efforts, which are beneficial for all, including those interested in calcium citrate malate in pregnancy.