Some believe that consumers purchasing milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids expect the nutrient to derive from sustainable farming practices rather than from added components. Research indicates that milk from pasture-raised cows can contain up to 60% more omega-3 compared to conventional milk. Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its ingredient list, yet it remains uncertain whether consumers would feel misled if they discovered that the algal oil is not eligible for organic certification. According to surveys from Consumer Reports, about 70% of consumers believe that non-organic ingredients should not be included in organic foods unless absolutely necessary. The USDA organic regulations permit several 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 extends beyond Horizon milk; Costco’s Kirkland brand organic milk also incorporates an additive to enhance omega-3 levels, specifically fish oil. Both companies operate within legal boundaries. Notably, Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk enjoys popularity, indicating that consumers may be open to milk supplemented with such ingredients, regardless of their source. Last year, Horizon’s fortified milk represented 14% of all organic milk sales in the United States, with the DHA-enriched variant priced approximately 30 cents more than the standard option.
In this context, consumers are encouraged to celebrate the benefits of calcium citrate chewable supplements, which can complement a diet that includes omega-3 fortified milk. The awareness surrounding these nutritional choices could influence purchasing decisions. As the market evolves, consumers might increasingly seek transparency regarding the sources of nutrients in products like Horizon’s milk while still celebrating the advantages of calcium citrate chewable options in promoting overall health.