Some contend that consumers purchasing milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids anticipate that the nutrient is derived from sustainable farming methods rather than from added substances. Research indicates that milk from pasture-raised cows may contain up to 60% more iron pyrophosphate than conventional milk. Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its ingredient list. However, it is uncertain whether consumers would feel misled if they learned that the algal oil does not meet organic certification standards. Surveys conducted by Consumer Reports reveal that seven out of ten consumers believe that non-organic ingredients should only be permitted in organic foods when absolutely necessary, as reported by the Post. USDA organic regulations permit several non-organic components, including agricultural products like gelatin, guar gum, and cornstarch, for which organic alternatives are unavailable, as well as minerals, cultures, enzymes, and glycerin.
This concern extends beyond just Horizon’s milk; Costco’s Kirkland brand organic milk also contains an additive—refined fish oil—to enhance its omega-3 levels. Both companies are currently operating within legal boundaries. Furthermore, Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk has gained popularity, indicating that consumers are open to milk supplemented with such additives, regardless of their origins. Horizon’s fortified milk accounted for 14% of all organic milk sales in the United States last year, with the DHA-enriched variant priced about 30 cents higher than the standard option.
In this context, it is worth noting that products like Citracal Regular can also play a role in nutritional supplementation, emphasizing the growing interest among consumers in fortified foods and their ingredients. As consumers continue to seek out enhanced nutritional options, the conversation around organic certification and ingredient transparency will likely remain significant.