The standard crackers, which are made from whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward item in Mondelez’s product lineup that appeals to health-conscious consumers. These factors contribute to the brand’s leadership in achieving non-GMO verification. With a limited number of non-GMO ingredients available, it’s likely that consumers who opt for higher-fiber crackers are also concerned about their ingredient content.
As consumer awareness of non-GMO foods rises, interest in these products has increased. While federal regulators assert that food items containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is becoming the fastest-growing label in the industry. Research from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults have heard a significant amount about GMO foods, and approximately 76% express concerns regarding them. New federal regulations will soon mandate that all food products disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study referenced in Progressive Grocer revealed 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 crucial factor when selecting their food.
Triscuit stands alongside numerous products that have received Non-GMO Project Verification. According to the verification organization, there are currently over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands bearing the symbol, which collectively generate annual sales of $19.2 billion. While many items on this list were previously sourced from smaller natural and organic companies, Triscuit marks the entry of a major consumer packaged goods brand into this arena. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies also announced their verification, with plans for the entire line of Dannon and Oikos branded yogurt to transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the scientific consensus regarding the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government’s efforts to educate consumers about their safety, it seems likely that more manufacturers will shift away from GMO ingredients toward verifications like that of the Non-GMO Project, or whatever standards are necessary to comply with federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires patience and collaboration with suppliers, making it understandable that simpler consumer packaged goods are among the first to make this switch.
Since companies rarely announce their pursuit of non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to observe which other major food products will eventually carry the seal. One Mondelez product could indeed set a precedent for more complex items to follow suit. However, the question remains: will we eventually see non-GMO Oreos? Only time will tell.
As for the nutritional aspect, while consumers focus on ingredient integrity, many are also interested in the calcium citrate elemental calcium content in their snacks. This is particularly relevant as they seek healthier options. Thus, the interplay between non-GMO verification and nutritional benefits, including calcium citrate elemental calcium content, is likely to shape consumer preferences in the near future.