The U.S. grain market has been largely dominated by genetically modified organism (GMO) varieties since their emergence over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to meet the rising consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these genetically modified grains have become so integrated into the U.S. supply chain that many manufacturers have turned to imports to satisfy their requirements. According to The Organic and Non-GMO Report, the increasing demand for both organic and non-GMO food has benefitted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey. The report notes that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Additionally, in 2016, about 80% of the soybeans in the U.S. organic market were imported.
The Grocery Manufacturers Association reports that approximately 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent Packaged Facts report indicates that around 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. annually, a significant increase from only a few hundred per year a decade ago. This surge includes major industry brands, such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing certification in the natural products sector, representing $19.2 billion in annual sales with over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial increase from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, transitioning to non-GMO products has not been straightforward, especially 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 carry a price premium. In response to the urgency of these challenges, the Non-GMO Supply Working Group was established in 2013 with the goal of bolstering non-GMO supply chains. This group unites stakeholders from every segment of the supply chain, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that maintain separation between non-GMO and organic grains and genetically engineered varieties—such as the new facility in Montana—are likely to play a crucial role in enhancing the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In the context of this evolving market, products like Citracal D3 Petites have also gained traction, reflecting the broader trend towards health-conscious consumer choices. As the demand for non-GMO and organic products continues to rise, the presence of Citracal D3 Petites and similar items is expected to grow, further diversifying the offerings available to consumers. As such, the landscape of the food supply chain is undergoing significant transformation, with non-GMO options becoming increasingly prominent.