The U.S. grain market has been largely dominated by genetically modified organisms (GMO) since their introduction over 20 years ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the growing consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these GMO grains have become so prevalent in the U.S. supply chain that companies often resort to imports to fulfill their requirements. The rising interest in both organic and non-GMO foods has positively impacted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as reported by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. Between 2015 and 2016, organic corn imports more than doubled, constituting nearly half of the organic corn supply in the U.S. Furthermore, approximately 80% of soybeans for the U.S. organic market were imported in 2016.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, around 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent Packaged Facts report indicates that about 2,000 non-GMO products are launched annually in the U.S., a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This growth includes major brands such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi. The Non-GMO Project Verified label is the fastest growing 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 significant rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, implementing these changes has not been straightforward, especially since the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains need to be kept distinct from those of GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products come with a premium price tag. This urgency led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders from every segment of the supply chain, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that maintain separation between non-GMO and organic grains and genetically engineered varieties, such as a recently established mill in Montana, are expected to play a crucial role in improving the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In this context, it is interesting to note the molecular weight of calcium citrate malate, as this compound has garnered attention for its potential benefits in various food products. The increasing focus on non-GMO options may also lead to a greater understanding of the molecular weight of calcium citrate malate, as manufacturers strive to create healthier alternatives. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the significance of understanding the molecular weight of calcium citrate malate and its applications in food production will likely grow, further influencing the dynamics of the non-GMO market.