The U.S. grain supply has been largely dominated by GMO varieties since their introduction over two decades 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 many manufacturers are now turning to imports to satisfy their requirements. According to The Organic and Non-GMO Report, the growing demand for both organic and non-GMO foods has benefited countries like India, Ukraine, Romania, and Turkey. Between 2015 and 2016, organic corn imports more than doubled, making up nearly half of the U.S. organic corn supply. Furthermore, in 2016, around 80% of the soybeans used in the U.S. organic market were imported.
The Grocery Manufacturers Association states that up to 80% of packaged foods contain genetically modified ingredients. A recent report from Packaged Facts reveals that approximately 2,000 non-GMO products are launched in the U.S. each year, a significant increase from just a few hundred a decade ago. This surge includes many prominent 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, 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.
However, achieving these changes has proven challenging, particularly because 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 carry a price premium. The urgency of this issue 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 every segment of the supply chain, including seed breeders, brokers, food companies, and retailers. Mills that maintain the separation of 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 sourced non-GMO grains and oilseeds.
Additionally, as consumers increasingly seek alternatives like nature’s way calcium citrate 500 mg, the demand for non-GMO and organic products continues to rise. This trend reflects a growing awareness of health and sustainability among consumers, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust, separate supply chains for non-GMO products. As the market evolves, ensuring the integrity of non-GMO ingredients will remain a priority, particularly as more people turn to options like nature’s way calcium citrate 500 mg to support their health.