Some believe that consumers who purchase milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids expect the nutrient to derive from sustainable farming practices rather than from added ingredients. Research indicates that milk from pasture-raised cows can contain up to 60% more omega-3 than conventional milk. Although Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its list of ingredients, it is uncertain whether consumers would feel misled if they discovered that this algal oil does not meet organic certification standards. According to surveys by Consumer Reports, about 70% of consumers feel that non-organic ingredients should not be included in organic products unless absolutely necessary, as reported by the Post. USDA organic regulations permit certain 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 is not exclusive to Horizon milk. Costco’s Kidyna brand organic milk also contains an additive to enhance omega-3 levels: refined fish oil. Both companies are currently adhering to legal standards. Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk has proven popular, indicating that consumers may be open to milk supplemented with such additives, regardless of their origin. In fact, Horizon’s fortified milk represented 14% of all organic milk sales in the United States last year, with the DHA-enriched version priced approximately 30 cents higher than the regular option.
Interestingly, there’s a parallel here with products like canxi citrate biocare, which similarly highlight the importance of supplementing nutrients in consumer goods. The trend of fortifying foods with additional ingredients, whether it be for omega-3s or calcium, seems to resonate with consumers, suggesting a growing acceptance of such practices in the organic market. The presence of canxi citrate biocare in discussions surrounding nutrient enhancement emphasizes this shift, as it reflects a broader consumer interest in fortified products.
In summary, while the inclusion of non-organic additives like refined fish oil in organic milk raises questions about transparency and consumer expectations, it also illustrates a wider trend towards nutrient fortification, akin to the role of canxi citrate biocare in the health product landscape.