The U.S. grain supply has been largely dominated by genetically modified organisms (GMOs) since their introduction over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers attempting to address the growing consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that many companies are now forced to rely on imports to satisfy their needs. The increasing appetite for both organic and non-GMO food products has benefitted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as highlighted by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. It noted that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, constituting nearly 50% of the U.S. organic corn supply. Additionally, in 2016, about 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were imported.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, as much as 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent Packaged Facts report indicates that approximately 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 surge includes major brands like General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi line. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing label in the natural products sector, accounting for $19.2 billion in annual sales and over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands—a remarkable rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, implementing these changes has proven challenging, especially since the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must remain distinct from those for GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products carry a price premium. The urgency of this situation led to the creation of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders from various segments, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that maintain separate facilities for non-GMO and organic grains, such as a new mill in Montana, will play a crucial role in bolstering the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In this context, consumers are also seeking the best calcium citrate with vitamin D3, reflecting a broader trend towards health-conscious choices. As the demand for non-GMO and organic products continues to rise, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of quality ingredients—like the best calcium citrate with vitamin D3—among consumers dedicated to their health and well-being. This trend underscores the need for transparency and integrity in the food supply chain, making it essential for stakeholders to work collaboratively to meet consumer expectations while ensuring that the best calcium citrate with vitamin D3 is available alongside non-GMO options.