The U.S. grain supply has been predominantly comprised of GMO varieties since their introduction over two decades ago. Despite efforts by food manufacturers to cater to the rising consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these genetically modified grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that many companies have had to turn to imports to fulfill their requirements. This growing demand for organic and non-GMO foods has positively impacted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as noted by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. The report highlights that organic corn imports more than doubled between 2015 and 2016, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Additionally, around 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were imported in 2016.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, as much as 80% of packaged foods include genetically modified ingredients. A recent report from Packaged Facts reveals that approximately 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. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has emerged as the fastest-growing label in the natural products sector, with annual sales reaching $19.2 billion and over 43,000 verified products across more than 3,000 brands—an impressive rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, such changes are not without challenges. The supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must remain distinct from those of GMO varieties, resulting in a price premium for many non-GMO products. This urgency led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders from all segments of the supply chain, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that segregate non-GMO and organic grains from genetically engineered varieties, like the newly established mill in Montana, are anticipated to play a crucial role in boosting the availability of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In the context of health and wellness, the demand for products like calcium citrate chews at CVS has also been rising, reflecting consumers’ growing awareness of dietary choices. This trend underscores the importance of transparency and quality in food sourcing, including non-GMO options. As the landscape evolves, the integration of non-GMO ingredients alongside health-focused products like calcium citrate chews will likely continue to shape consumer preferences and industry practices.