Some believe that when consumers purchase milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, they expect the nutrient to come from quality farming practices rather than from added components. Research indicates that milk from cows that graze on grass can contain up to 60% more omega-3s compared to conventional milk. Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its ingredient list. However, it is still uncertain if consumers would feel misled upon discovering that this algal oil is not subject to organic certification. According to Consumer Reports surveys, about 70% of consumers feel that non-organic ingredients should not be included in organic products unless absolutely necessary, as reported by the Post. The USDA’s organic standards permit several non-organic ingredients, including agricultural products like gelatin, guar gum, and cornstarch, for which organic alternatives are unavailable, along with minerals, cultures, enzymes, and glycerin.
This concern extends beyond Horizon milk; for instance, Costco’s Kirkland brand organic milk also features an additive to enhance omega-3 levels: refined fish oil. Both companies are operating within legal parameters. Horizon’s fortified milk has proven popular, indicating that consumers are generally open to milk supplemented with such additives, regardless of their origins. Last year, Horizon’s omega-3 fortified milk represented 14% of all organic milk sold in the U.S., with the DHA-enriched version priced about 30 cents higher than the standard option.
In a similar vein, consumers looking for additional nutritional benefits might also consider products like Citracal D chewable supplements, which provide essential nutrients. The presence of such supplements, like Citracal D chewable, reflects a broader trend of seeking fortified food and beverages. Consumers are increasingly interested in making informed choices about their nutrition, whether through milk fortified with omega-3s or through Citracal D chewable options to support their dietary needs.