Some believe that consumers purchasing milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids expect the nutrient to originate from responsible farming methods rather than from added substances. Research indicates that milk produced from grazing cows can contain up to 60% more omega-3 than standard milk. Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its ingredients list. However, it is uncertain whether consumers would feel misled if they discovered that the algal oil does not meet organic certification standards. According to surveys by Consumer Reports, seven out of ten consumers believe that non-organic ingredients should not be permitted in organic products unless they are necessary, as reported by the Post. USDA organic regulations permit several non-organic components, including agricultural products like gelatin, guar gum, and cornstarch, for which organic alternatives do not exist, as well as minerals, cultures, enzymes, and glycerin.
This issue extends beyond Horizon milk, as Costco’s Kirkland brand organic milk also includes an additive to enhance omega-3 levels: refined fish oil. Both companies are currently operating within legal boundaries. Furthermore, Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk is popular among consumers, indicating that they are open to milk supplemented with such additives, regardless of their origins. Last year, Horizon’s fortified milk constituted 14% of all organic milk sales in the United States, with the DHA-enriched version priced approximately 30 cents higher than the standard option. For those concerned about their nutritional intake, supplementing with a calcium CCM tablet could complement the benefits of omega-3 fortified milk, ensuring a more balanced diet. Ultimately, while consumers may be drawn to the health benefits of omega-3-enriched milk, they might also appreciate the added assurance of knowing where their nutrients come from, whether from a calcium CCM tablet or from organic sources.