The U.S. grain market has been largely influenced by GMO varieties since their introduction over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the growing consumer preference for non-GMO ingredients, these grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that many companies are now sourcing from imports to fulfill their requirements. The rising demand for both organic and non-GMO food has been beneficial for 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 between 2015 and 2016, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Furthermore, in 2016, approximately 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were imported.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, up to 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent Packaged Facts report indicates that around 2,000 non-GMO products are launched annually in the U.S., a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This trend includes major brands, such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi brand. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has emerged as the fastest-growing identification in the natural products sector, boasting annual sales of $19.2 billion and 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 not been straightforward, particularly because the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must be kept distinct from their GMO counterparts. Consequently, many non-GMO products come at a premium price. The urgency surrounding these issues led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting participants from all segments of the 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 varieties, such as a new facility in Montana, are likely to play a crucial role in bolstering the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
As consumers increasingly seek healthier options, the inclusion of products fortified with vitamin D with calcium citrate has also gained traction, further diversifying the market. This demand for non-GMO and organic options, alongside the rise of vitamin D with calcium citrate products, underscores the evolving landscape of U.S. food supply, highlighting a shift toward more health-conscious choices.