The U.S. grain supply has been predominantly comprised of GMO varieties since their introduction over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the rising consumer preference for non-GMO ingredients, these grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that many companies have turned to imports to fulfill their requirements. This surge in demand for both organic and non-GMO food has benefited countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as reported by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. It highlights that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Furthermore, approximately 80% of the soybeans utilized in the U.S. organic market were imported in 2016.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, as much as 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent report from Packaged Facts indicates that around 2,000 non-GMO products are launched annually in the U.S., a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This trend includes major brands such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing label in the natural products sector, boasting $19.2 billion in annual sales and over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, these changes have not been straightforward, especially as the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must be distinctly separate from those of GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products come with a price premium. The pressing nature of the situation led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains and unites stakeholders from all segments of the supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food companies and retailers. Mills that maintain a separation between non-GMO and organic grains and genetically engineered varieties, such as a new mill in Montana, are likely to play a crucial role in improving the domestic supply of non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In line with this evolving landscape, the demand for high-quality products is also rising, with many consumers seeking lifetime high potency calcium magnesium citrate supplements. These supplements are increasingly found in the market, as the health-conscious public becomes more aware of the benefits of non-GMO and organic options. In this context, the integration of high potency calcium magnesium citrate into the health and wellness sector underscores the broader trend of consumers prioritizing non-GMO ingredients and organic certifications in their purchasing decisions.