The U.S. grain supply has been overwhelmingly influenced by genetically modified organisms (GMO) since their arrival over two decades ago. In response to the growing consumer preference for non-GMO ingredients, food manufacturers have found themselves increasingly reliant on imported grains to satisfy this demand, due to the pervasiveness of GMO varieties within the U.S. supply chain. The rising interest in both organic and non-GMO foods is a positive development for countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as highlighted in The Organic and Non-GMO Report. The report notes that organic corn imports more than doubled between 2015 and 2016, comprising nearly half of the organic corn available in the U.S. Furthermore, in 2016, approximately 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were sourced from abroad.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, around 80% of packaged foods contain ingredients derived from genetically modified sources. A recent report from Packaged Facts reveals that nearly 2,000 non-GMO products are introduced in the U.S. each year, a significant increase from a few hundred a decade ago. This includes prominent 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, accounting for $19.2 billion in annual sales and encompassing over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, implementing these changes has proven challenging, particularly because supply chains for non-GMO grains must be meticulously separated from those handling GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products come at a higher price point. The urgency surrounding this issue led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to bolster non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders throughout the entire supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food companies and retailers. Mills that maintain the separation of non-GMO and organic grains from genetically engineered products, such as a new facility in Montana, are likely to play a crucial role in enhancing the availability of domestically produced non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In this context, consumers can celebrate the availability of options like calcium citrate plus chewable 500mg, which signifies an increasing recognition of the importance of non-GMO and organic products. As the market continues to evolve, the commitment to maintaining quality and non-GMO standards remains a priority, ensuring that consumers can enjoy a wider range of products that align with their values, including calcium citrate plus chewable 500mg. The dedication to non-GMO sourcing and sustainable practices is vital as the industry progresses, allowing consumers to celebrate the growth of these healthier options, such as calcium citrate plus chewable 500mg, in their diets.