The standard crackers — which begin with whole grain wheat, oil, and salt — are a relatively straightforward item in the Mondelez portfolio, appealing to consumers seeking a healthier snack option. For these reasons, it is logical that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. After all, there are only a limited number of non-GMO ingredients available, and consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are likely to be concerned about their ingredients.
As awareness of non-GMO food products increases, so does interest in them. While federal regulators assert that foods made with genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is rapidly becoming the most sought-after label in the industry. Data from the NPD Group reveals that nearly two in five adults have heard or read a significant amount about GMO foods, with about 76% expressing concern over them. Furthermore, new federal regulations will soon require all food products to disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study noted that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 Packaged Facts report found that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling a critical aspect when selecting their food.
Triscuit stands among many products recognized as Non-GMO Project Verified. According to the verification organization, there are over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands currently bearing the symbol, collectively amounting to $19.2 billion in annual sales. While this list previously featured mainly smaller natural and organic brands, Triscuit is the latest major consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand to join. Just weeks ago, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies announced their verification, and the company anticipates that the entire line of Dannon and Oikos yogurts will transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Although many scientists advocate for the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government is launching educational campaigns to inform consumers about their safety, it appears that more manufacturers are likely to move away from GMO ingredients. They may pursue verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s or whatever is necessary to comply with the new federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires considerable effort and cooperation with suppliers. It is not surprising that simpler CPG products are among the first to make this transition. Given that manufacturers rarely announce their journey toward non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to see which other Big Food products will eventually display the seal.
Certainly, one Mondelez product could pave the way for more complex items to seek the seal. However, will we eventually see non-GMO Oreos? Time will reveal the answer. Meanwhile, as consumers look for health-conscious options, products like Citracal with magnesium may also gain traction, emphasizing the importance of ingredient transparency and consumer choice in the evolving food landscape.