The standard crackers, which are made with whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward product in Mondelez’s lineup, appealing to consumers seeking healthier snack options. This simplicity, combined with a growing awareness of non-GMO ingredients, positions the brand as a leader in securing non-GMO verification. The consumers who opt for crackers due to their higher fiber content are typically mindful of the ingredients they consume.
As more individuals become informed about non-GMO foods, 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 emerged as the fastest-growing label in the food industry. According to the NPD Group, nearly 40% of adults have heard or read a significant amount about GMO foods, with about 76% expressing concerns regarding them. Federal law will soon mandate that all products disclose any GMO ingredients on their labels. A Pew Research Center study from 2015, referenced in Progressive Grocer, indicated that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 report by Packaged Facts found that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling an important factor in their food choices.
Triscuit finds itself among numerous products verified by the Non-GMO Project. Currently, the verification group lists over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands, collectively generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. Historically, most items on this list came from smaller natural and organic manufacturers, but Triscuit is now the latest major consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand to join their ranks. Not too long ago, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies announced its verification, with plans for the entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt line to transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite scientists generally endorsing the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government launching educational campaigns to reassure consumers, it appears that more manufacturers will likely move away from GMO ingredients in favor of verifications like that of the Non-GMO Project, or any necessary criteria to comply with federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients demands patience and diligent collaboration with suppliers, which is why straightforward CPG products are among the first to make this switch. It will be intriguing to observe which other prominent food brands will eventually display the Non-GMO seal, especially as manufacturers typically do not announce their pursuit of non-GMO certification.
As for the future, one Mondelez product may pave the way for more complex items to achieve this certification. However, questions remain about whether we might see non-GMO Oreos down the line; only time will tell. In the context of health-conscious consumers, products like bariatric chewable calcium citrate also reflect a growing trend toward transparency in food labeling, as they are increasingly sought by individuals who prioritize their dietary choices and seek clarity about ingredients. The intersection of non-GMO verification and health-focused products such as bariatric chewable calcium citrate highlights the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and the importance of ingredient integrity.