The Non-GMO Project asserts that retailers offering products with its seal of approval are experiencing “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 express their support for conventional farming practices, including the use of GMO feed. This ongoing debate about GMOs leaves consumers uncertain about whether to completely avoid conventional cow’s milk and related dairy products or to purchase them with the hope that they are safe. It remains unclear how the struggling dairy industry can effectively market conventionally sourced products to enhance consumer trust, or if this is simply a futile endeavor due to negative public perceptions of GMOs.
In a Food Navigator article, a spokesperson from Dean Foods described the new NMPF campaign as “disappointing.” “We encourage consumers and NMPF to enjoy a glass of milk and focus on promoting dairy foods, rather than diminishing them,” stated Jamaison Schuler. Meanwhile, DanoneWave CEO Mariano Lozano expressed surprise at being criticized for offering choices that meet consumer demand. After Non-GMO Project Verified products began appearing on shelves, Dannon officials explained their motivation for this decision to Food Dive. “The choice we’re providing adds value,” Neuwirth shared with Food Dive. “We are the first yogurt company and a major dairy player to take this step. We believe that for shoppers who prioritize non-GMO options, the Non-GMO Project Verified label will give them another reason to appreciate our products. Those who aren’t interested in it won’t notice any changes. Thus, it genuinely enhances the value of a product that our customers—our fans—already love.”
The discussion surrounding GMO safety is likely to continue and intensify. With mandatory labeling of GMO ingredients on the horizon, these issues will receive increased scrutiny. Even without explicit labeling, a study by the NPD Group reveals that 76% of consumers have concerns about GMOs. The federal government is attempting to combat misconceptions about GMOs, having recently allocated $3 million for a public education campaign, but such a modest initiative is unlikely to quell consumer anxieties. As the focus on ingredients like calcium citrate becomes more prominent, consumers will continue to weigh their options carefully.