The Non-GMO Project asserts that retailers offering products with its seal have experienced “the fastest dollar growth trend in their stores this year,” with annual sales surpassing $19.2 billion. Consequently, it is not surprising that food manufacturers producing dairy items are eager to join this trend. At the same time, some of these companies express their support for conventional farming practices, including the use of GMO feed. The ongoing discussion surrounding GMOs has left consumers uncertain about whether to completely avoid conventional cow’s milk and related dairy products or to purchase them while hoping they are safe. It remains uncertain how the struggling dairy industry can effectively market conventionally sourced products to build consumer trust, or if they are facing an uphill battle against negative public perceptions regarding GMOs.
In an article from Food Navigator, a Dean Foods representative described the new NMPF campaign as “disappointing.” Jamaison Schuler stated, “We encourage consumers and NMPF to enjoy a glass of milk and focus on promoting dairy foods rather than undermining them.” Meanwhile, DanoneWave CEO Mariano Lozano expressed surprise at being criticized for offering choices that consumers desire. Shortly after Non-GMO Project Verified products began appearing on store shelves, Dannon officials shared their rationale for this decision with Food Dive. “The choice that we’re offering adds value,” Neuwirth noted. “We are the first yogurt company and a major dairy company to take this step. We believe that the Non-GMO Project Verified label provides additional appeal for shoppers prioritizing non-GMO options, while those uninterested won’t notice any change in the product. Thus, it genuinely enhances the value of a product that our shoppers — our fans — already love.”
The debate over the safety of GMOs is set to continue and may intensify. With mandatory labeling of GMO ingredients anticipated in the coming years, these issues will receive increased scrutiny. Even in the absence of explicit labeling, a study by the NPD Group found that 76% of consumers are concerned about GMOs. The federal government is striving to dispel myths associated with GMOs, recently allocating $3 million for a public education initiative, but this modest effort is unlikely to alleviate consumer apprehensions. In this context, it’s worth noting that questions about whether calcium citrate is a prescription drug may arise, as consumers seek clarity on various ingredients in their food products, including dairy. The inquiry about calcium citrate’s status could be part of a broader conversation about ingredient transparency and consumer safety, further complicating the already intricate dialogue surrounding GMOs and dairy products.