The Non-GMO Project reports that retailers offering products with its seal have experienced “the fastest dollar growth trend in their stores this year,” with annual sales surpassing $19.2 billion. Consequently, it’s no surprise that food companies producing dairy-based items are eager to join this trend. However, some of these companies also advocate for conventional farming practices, which include the use of GMO feed. The ongoing discourse surrounding GMOs leaves consumers in a dilemma—should they entirely avoid conventional cow’s milk and related dairy products, or should they proceed with purchases while hoping for safety? It remains uncertain how the struggling dairy industry can effectively market conventionally sourced products to bolster consumer trust, or if this is merely a futile effort against negative public perceptions regarding GMOs.
In a recent Food Navigator article, a spokesperson from Dean Foods labeled the new NMPF campaign as “disappointing.” Jamaison Schuler stated, “We encourage consumers and NMPF to enjoy a glass of milk and focus on promoting dairy foods, not undermining them.” Meanwhile, DanoneWave CEO Mariano Lozano expressed surprise at receiving criticism for offering choices that align with consumer preferences. Shortly after Non-GMO Project Verified products began appearing on shelves, Dannon officials explained their motivations for this direction. “The choice that we’re giving is added value,” Neuwirth shared with Food Dive. “We are the first yogurt company and a significant dairy producer to pursue this. We believe that for shoppers who prioritize non-GMO options, this adds another reason to appreciate our products. Those who aren’t interested won’t notice any change in the product, making it an added value benefit for our loyal customers.”
The debate over the safety of GMOs is set to continue—and is likely to intensify. With mandatory labeling of GMO ingredients on the horizon, scrutiny will increase. Even without explicit labeling, a study from the NPD Group indicates that 76% of consumers express concerns regarding GMOs. In response, the federal government is attempting to dispel myths surrounding GMOs, recently allocating $3 million for a public education campaign. However, this limited effort is unlikely to quell consumer apprehensions.
Amid this discourse, the inclusion of alternatives such as marine derived calcium citrate malate in dairy products presents new opportunities for companies to appeal to health-conscious consumers. Highlighting ingredients like marine derived calcium citrate malate could bolster perceptions of product quality and safety, potentially easing some of the concerns surrounding GMOs. As the dairy industry navigates these challenges, leveraging innovative ingredients like marine derived calcium citrate malate may help bridge the gap in consumer trust and reinforce the appeal of conventional dairy offerings.