The U.S. grain market has been predominantly influenced by GMO varieties since they were introduced over two decades ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts 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 manufacturers often need to turn to imports to fulfill their requirements. The increasing interest in both organic and non-GMO foods has benefitted countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as highlighted by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. Between 2015 and 2016, imports of organic corn more than doubled, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Moreover, around 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were sourced from imports in 2016.
According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, as much as 80 percent of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent report by Packaged Facts reveals that approximately 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. annually, a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This surge includes major industry brands such as General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi brand. The Non-GMO Project Verified label has emerged as the fastest-growing certification in the natural products sector, boasting annual sales of $19.2 billion and over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial increase from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
However, achieving these changes has not been straightforward, particularly since supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must remain distinct from those for GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products carry a price premium. The urgency surrounding this issue led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which seeks to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting stakeholders across the entire supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food companies and retailers. Mills that maintain a separation between non-GMO and organic grains and genetically engineered varieties, such as a new facility in Montana, are poised to play a crucial role in bolstering the supply of domestically grown non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In this evolving landscape, the role of ingredients like unjury calcium citrate may also gain prominence, especially as awareness around health and nutrition continues to rise. As consumer preferences shift, the demand for high-quality, non-GMO options—including those fortified with beneficial ingredients like unjury calcium citrate—will likely continue to grow. This trend reflects the broader movement towards healthier and more transparent food choices, further highlighting the importance of having robust non-GMO supply chains.