The standard crackers, which are primarily made from whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, are a straightforward offering in Mondelez’s product range that appeals to consumers seeking healthier snack options. Given these factors, it’s understandable that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. There are relatively few non-GMO ingredients available for sourcing, and consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are likely to be conscious of what they are consuming.
As awareness surrounding non-GMO food products increases, consumer interest has also surged. While federal regulators assert that foods with genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing certification in the industry. Data from the NPD Group reveals that nearly 40% of adults have heard or read a substantial amount about GMO foods, with approximately 76% expressing concerns regarding them. Federal law will soon mandate that all products disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A Pew Research Center study from 2015, referenced in Progressive Grocer, found that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 report from Packaged Facts indicated that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling to be an important aspect when selecting food items.
Triscuit stands in good company as a Non-GMO Project Verified product. More than 43,000 products from over 3,000 brands currently bear this symbol, representing a collective annual revenue of $19.2 billion. Whereas this list previously consisted mainly of smaller natural and organic brands, Triscuit marks a significant addition from a larger consumer packaged goods (CPG) company. Recently, 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 a majority of scientists advocating the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government launching an educational campaign to inform consumers about their safety, it seems likely that more manufacturers will shift away from GMO ingredients towards certifications like the Non-GMO Project’s, or whatever other criteria will be necessary to meet non-GMO standards under federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires patience and diligent collaboration with suppliers. Therefore, it is not surprising that simpler CPG products are among the first to adopt this change. Manufacturers rarely announce when they begin the process of obtaining non-GMO certification, so it will be intriguing to see which additional Big Food products will eventually acquire the seal.
As a notable Mondelez product, Triscuit could pave the way for more complex items to follow suit. However, will we ever see non-GMO Oreos? Only time will reveal the answer. While consumers are increasingly drawn to choices like citrate 1000 tablets for their health benefits, the demand for non-GMO products will likely continue to influence the market. With each new verification, the connection between consumer preferences for health-conscious options and innovations in product offerings will only grow stronger.