The standard crackers, made from whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, are a straightforward offering in Mondelez’s product lineup and are popular among consumers seeking a healthier snack option. Given this, it’s no surprise that the brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. There are relatively few non-GMO ingredients available, and consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are typically conscientious about what goes into their food.
As awareness of non-GMO foods increases, so too does consumer interest in these products. Although federal regulators assert that foods made with genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is emerging as the fastest-growing label in the industry. Data from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults have heard a significant amount about GMO foods, with approximately 76% expressing concern over them. Soon, federal law will mandate the disclosure of GMO ingredients on product labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study referenced in Progressive Grocer found that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 Packaged Facts report revealed that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling to be an important factor in their food choices.
Triscuit, recognized as a Non-GMO Project Verified product, is in excellent company. The verification organization reports that over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands currently carry the symbol, collectively generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. While many products on this list previously came from smaller natural and organic producers, Triscuit is the latest major consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand to join their ranks. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies achieved verification, with plans for the entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt lines to transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite most scientists affirming the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government’s educational initiatives promoting their safety, more manufacturers are likely to shift away from GMO components in favor of verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s—especially as they seek compliance with the forthcoming federal labeling law. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients demands patience and collaboration with suppliers, making it unsurprising that simpler CPG products are among the first to make this change. As manufacturers rarely announce their pursuit of non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to see which other major food products eventually display the seal.
Perhaps one Mondelez product could set a precedent for more complex items to follow suit. But will we eventually see non-GMO Oreos? Only time will tell. Meanwhile, it is also worth noting that some brands, like Citracal, are exploring kosher certifications alongside their non-GMO efforts, further emphasizing the growing consumer demand for transparency and quality in food products.