The grain supply in the United States has been predominantly comprised of GMO varieties since their inception over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers attempting to cater to the growing consumer preference for non-GMO ingredients, these GMO grains are so widespread within the U.S. supply chain that companies frequently resort to imports to satisfy their requirements. The surge in demand for 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. The report highlights that organic corn imports more than doubled between 2015 and 2016, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Additionally, approximately 80% of the soybeans used 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 by Packaged Facts noted that about 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. each year, a significant increase from just a few hundred annually a decade ago. This growth includes major industry brands, such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi line. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has emerged as the fastest-growing certification 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 increase from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, achieving such changes has proven challenging, particularly because the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must be kept distinct from their GMO counterparts. Consequently, many non-GMO products tend to carry a price premium. The pressing nature of this issue prompted the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting participants from all segments of the supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food manufacturers and retailers. Mills that maintain the separation of non-GMO and organic grains from genetically engineered varieties, such as the new facility in Montana, are expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In line with this evolution, there is a growing interest in products like calcium citrate for kids, which are often developed without genetic modification. As awareness and demand for non-GMO options rise, it becomes essential to explore diverse products, including those fortified with calcium citrate for kids, to ensure nutritional needs are met while adhering to non-GMO standards. The integration of such products into the market reflects a broader trend towards healthier, non-GMO food options for all consumers, including children.