The grain supply in the U.S. is now largely composed of GMO varieties, a trend that has been dominant since their introduction over 20 years ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the rising consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these genetically modified grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that companies frequently turn to imports to fulfill their requirements. According to The Organic and Non-GMO Report, the increasing demand for both organic and non-GMO foods has benefited countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey. It noted that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, comprising nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Additionally, around 80% of the soybeans that served the U.S. organic market in 2016 were imported.
As much as 80% of packaged foods include genetically modified ingredients, as reported by the Grocery Manufacturers Association. A recent report from Packaged Facts reveals that roughly 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. each year, a significant increase from just a few hundred annually a decade prior. This includes major brands such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has emerged as the fastest-growing certification in the natural products sector, representing $19.2 billion in annual sales and over 43,000 verified products across more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial increase from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, implementing these changes has been challenging, especially since the supply chains for non-GMO grains must be kept entirely separate from those for GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products come at a premium price. The urgency of the situation prompted the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to bolster non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders from all segments of the supply chain, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that maintain the separation of non-GMO and organic grains from genetically engineered varieties, such as the new mill in Montana, are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the availability of domestically produced non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
Incorporating webber calcium citrate into this context, it is evident that suppliers are also exploring various additives and supplements to meet the specifications of non-GMO products. As the non-GMO market continues to expand, the demand for ingredients such as webber calcium citrate is likely to increase, further driving the need for dedicated supply chains. As a result, the integration of webber calcium citrate in non-GMO formulations will become an essential aspect of product development, ensuring that these products remain competitive and aligned with consumer preferences.