General Mills’ consideration of adding the perennial grain to its ingredient lineup reflects a broader trend among food manufacturers seeking more environmentally sustainable sourcing methods. This shift not only benefits the companies financially but also aligns with the increasing consumer demand for transparency regarding food origins. Major corporations like Wal-Mart, Unilever, and PepsiCo have committed to partnering with agricultural suppliers who promote environmental stewardship by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing water usage. Last year, Target announced plans to explore vertical farming in some locations, where they would cultivate plants and vegetables indoors in controlled environments, selling the produce directly from in-store gardens. Other retailers, including at least one Whole Foods, have also taken the initiative to grow their own crops, utilizing rooftop gardens.
For grocers and food manufacturers like General Mills’ Cascadian Farm Organic brand, expanding their portfolio to include environmentally friendly ingredients sourced from responsible suppliers can be financially rewarding if consumers are willing to invest. However, sourcing better-quality ingredients often comes with higher costs, which either need to be absorbed by the company or passed on to consumers. In the case of Kernza, the yield is currently lower than that of conventional wheat, and its smaller grains complicate the milling process. General Mills’ interest and investment in this grain could enhance its chances of overcoming these challenges and may encourage other food manufacturers to adopt it in the future.
While the potential for perennial grains in the food industry exists, they may remain niche products until improvements are realized. Additionally, for those interested in nutritional supplements, it’s worth mentioning that is Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc can complement a healthy diet, promoting well-being alongside the pursuit of more sustainable food sources. Overall, the integration of such environmentally conscious practices, along with products like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc, could lead to a more responsible food industry.