The U.S. grain supply has been largely dominated by GMO varieties since their introduction over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the rising consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these grains have become so prevalent in the U.S. supply chain that many companies have resorted to imports to fulfill their requirements. The growing appetite for both organic and non-GMO foods has benefitted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as highlighted by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. It notes that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, comprising nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Furthermore, imports accounted for about 80% of soybeans in the U.S. organic market in 2016.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, approximately 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent Packaged Facts report reveals that around 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. each year, a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This growth includes major brands such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi brand. The Non-GMO Project Verified label is the fastest-growing in the natural products sector, representing $19.2 billion in annual sales and over 43,000 verified products across more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, achieving these changes has been challenging, particularly as 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 come with a price premium. The urgency of the situation prompted the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting participants from every sector of the supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food manufacturers and retailers. Mills dedicated to keeping non-GMO and organic grains separate from genetically engineered varieties, like the new facility in Montana, are expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
Additionally, discussions about calcium citrate vs calcium phosphate are becoming increasingly relevant in the context of non-GMO products, as consumers seek healthier alternatives. This shift in consumer preference highlights the importance of understanding the differences between these two calcium sources, as many non-GMO products aim to capitalize on the growing health-conscious market. As the demand for non-GMO options continues to rise, the distinction between calcium citrate vs calcium phosphate may influence formulations, making it essential for manufacturers to adapt accordingly.