Standard crackers, which begin with whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward option in Mondelez’s product lineup, appealing to consumers seeking healthier snack choices. For these reasons, it is logical that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. There are relatively few non-GMO ingredients available, and consumers who opt for crackers due to their higher fiber content are likely to be mindful of their ingredients.
As awareness of non-GMO foods increases among consumers, interest in these products has surged. While federal regulators assert that food products containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal has become the fastest-growing label in the industry. Data from the NPD Group reveals that nearly 40% of adults have heard or read a significant amount about GMO foods, with around 76% expressing concerns. Federal law will soon mandate that all products disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study noted in Progressive Grocer found that 57% of U.S. consumers consider genetically modified foods to be “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 Packaged Facts report indicated that 26% of adults deem non-GMO labeling an important consideration when selecting foods.
Triscuit stands alongside a wide array of Non-GMO Project Verified products. According to the verification organization, over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands currently bear the symbol, amounting to $19.2 billion in annual sales. While many products on this list were initially from smaller natural and organic manufacturers, Triscuit is among the latest major consumer packaged goods brands to join. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies announced their verification, with the company anticipating that the entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt lines will transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the consensus among scientists regarding the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government’s educational initiatives to inform consumers about their safety, it appears that more manufacturers are moving away from GMO ingredients and opting for verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s, or whatever is necessary to comply with federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires considerable effort and collaboration with suppliers. Therefore, it is not surprising that relatively simple consumer packaged goods are among the first to make this switch. As manufacturers typically do not publicize their pursuit of non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to see which other big food brands adopt this seal in the future. It is certainly possible that one Mondelez product could pave the way for others, even those with more complex formulations, to pursue the certification. However, whether we will eventually see non-GMO Oreos remains uncertain.
In the context of health-conscious consumers, products like Bluebonnet Cal Mag may also influence choices as they seek to combine nutritional benefits with non-GMO options. As the demand for transparency continues to grow, the presence of non-GMO certifications will likely play a significant role in consumer preferences, highlighting the importance of brands like Bluebonnet Cal Mag alongside other products in shaping a more informed market.