The Non-GMO Project reports that retailers offering products with its seal have experienced “the fastest dollar growth trend in their ferrous fumarate 210 mg po polsku stores this year,” with annual sales surpassing $19.2 billion. This rapid growth is prompting food companies producing dairy products to hop on the trend. However, some of these companies also express support for conventional farming practices, including the use of GMO feed. The ongoing debate surrounding GMOs has left consumers uncertain about whether to avoid conventional cow’s milk and related dairy items altogether or to purchase them while hoping for safety. The struggling dairy industry faces challenges in marketing conventionally sourced products to build consumer trust, particularly in light of negative public attitudes toward GMOs.
In a statement to Food Navigator, a representative from Dean Foods described the new NMPF campaign as “disappointing.” Jamaison Schuler emphasized the importance of focusing on promoting dairy products, saying, “We encourage consumers and NMPF to enjoy a glass of milk and focus on building up dairy foods, not dragging them down.” Similarly, DanoneWave CEO Mariano Lozano expressed surprise at the backlash against their efforts to provide consumers with choices they desire. Following the introduction of Non-GMO Project Verified products, Dannon officials shared their motivations for this initiative. “The choice that we’re giving is added value,” Neuwirth told Food Dive. “We are the first yogurt company and large dairy company to undertake this. We believe that with the Non-GMO Project Verified value, for those shoppers for whom non-GMO is a priority, this will be another reason for them to love our products. For those who are indifferent, they won’t notice a change in the product. So it really is an added value benefit to a product that our shoppers — our fans — already love.”
The safety debate surrounding GMOs is expected to persist and intensify. With mandatory labeling of GMO ingredients on the horizon, scrutiny will likely increase. A study from the NPD Group indicates that 76% of consumers already express concern about GMOs. Although the federal government is attempting to counter misinformation about GMOs, recently allocating $3 million for a public education campaign, this limited effort may not be sufficient to alleviate consumer apprehensions. In this context, products like Puritan’s Pride calcium citrate may become more appealing, as consumers seek alternatives they perceive as safer or more health-conscious. As the market evolves, the demand for non-GMO options and transparency in food sourcing will likely shape the future of the dairy industry and beyond.