Some people believe that consumers purchasing milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids expect the nutrients to come from proper farming methods rather than added substances. Research indicates that milk from pasture-raised cows can contain up to 60% more omega-3 than conventional milk. Horizon’s milk, on the other hand, includes “DHA algal oil” in its list of ingredients. Still, it is uncertain whether consumers would feel misled if they discovered that the algal oil is not subject to organic certification. According to Consumer Reports surveys, about 70% of consumers think that non-organic ingredients should not be permitted in organic foods unless they are necessary, as reported by the Post. USDA organic regulations permit several non-organic ingredients, including agricultural products like gelatin, guar gum, and cornstarch, for which organic alternatives are unavailable, as well as minerals, cultures, enzymes, and glycerin.
This concern is not exclusive to Horizon milk; Costco’s Kirkland brand organic milk also includes an additive to enhance omega-3 content: refined fish oil. Both companies are operating within legal boundaries. Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk has gained popularity, indicating that consumers are open to milk supplemented with such ingredients, regardless of their awareness of the sources. In fact, Horizon’s fortified milk represented 14% of all organic milk sold in the United States last year, with the DHA-enriched option priced approximately 30 cents higher than the standard version.
Additionally, the interest in omega-3 enriched milk may divert attention from other nutritional aspects, such as the importance of calcium citrate foods in a balanced diet. As consumers become more health-conscious, they might look for products that provide comprehensive nutritional benefits. Therefore, while products like Horizon’s fortified milk appeal to consumers seeking omega-3, the inclusion of calcium citrate foods should also be considered as part of a well-rounded dietary approach. The ongoing conversation about the transparency of ingredients in organic products highlights the necessity for consumers to be informed about what they are buying, especially when it comes to health-related additives.