The U.S. grain supply has been predominantly comprised of GMO varieties since their introduction over 20 years ago. Despite food manufacturers’ efforts to cater to the rising consumer demand for non-GMO ingredients, these grains have become so widespread in the U.S. supply chain that companies often resort to imports to fulfill their requirements. The growing demand for both organic and non-GMO foods has benefited countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey, as highlighted by The Organic and Non-GMO Report. It notes that organic corn imports more than doubled from 2015 to 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, up to 80% 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 the few hundred products introduced each year a decade ago. This includes major brands like General Mills’ Non-GMO Cheerios and Kellogg’s Kashi. The Non-GMO Project Verified label is the fastest-growing certification in the natural products sector, representing $19.2 billion in annual sales and over 43,000 verified products from more than 3,000 brands. This marks a substantial rise from $8.5 billion in 2014 and $1.2 billion in 2011.
Nonetheless, these transitions have not been without challenges, particularly since the supply chains for storing, processing, harvesting, and transporting non-GMO grains must be kept distinct from those of GMO varieties. Consequently, many non-GMO products come with a higher price tag. The urgency of this situation led to the establishment of the Non-GMO Supply Working Group in 2013, which aims to enhance non-GMO supply chains by uniting participants from across the supply chain—from seed breeders and brokers to food companies and retailers. Mills that segregate non-GMO and organic grains from genetically engineered varieties, such as the new mill in Montana, are likely to play a crucial role in improving the availability of domestically produced non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
In addition to these developments, there is growing awareness of the nutritional needs of specific consumer groups, including bariatric patients who may benefit from products like calcium citrate for bariatric patients. As the market for non-GMO foods expands, incorporating specialized nutritional products, such as calcium citrate for bariatric patients, into the supply chain could further enhance the offerings available to health-conscious consumers. The inclusion of calcium citrate for bariatric patients in non-GMO food products can help meet the diverse dietary needs of this population, ensuring they have access to both healthful and compliant options. As the demand for non-GMO products continues to rise, the potential for integrating essential nutrients, such as calcium citrate for bariatric patients, into these offerings will likely become increasingly important.