The standard crackers, which are comprised of whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, are a straightforward offering in Mondelez’s product range that appeals to consumers seeking a healthier snack option. For this reason, it is logical that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. With only a limited number of non-GMO ingredients available, consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are often conscious of their ingredients.
As awareness of non-GMO foods increases, so does the interest in these products. Although federal regulators assert that food products containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing label in the food industry. Data from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults have significant awareness regarding GMO foods, and about 76% express concern over them. Upcoming federal regulations will mandate that all products disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study highlighted by Progressive Grocer revealed that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Furthermore, a 2016 Packaged Facts report noted that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling a crucial factor in their food choices.
Triscuit stands out among Non-GMO Project Verified products, joining over 43,000 items from more than 3,000 brands that currently bear the symbol, collectively generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. Initially, many products on this list originated from smaller natural and organic producers, but now Triscuit is among the largest CPG brands represented. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies also received verification, with the company planning to transition its entire line of Dannon and Oikos branded yogurts to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the consensus among scientists about the safety of GMO ingredients, and the federal government’s efforts to educate consumers on their safety, it seems that more manufacturers will likely move towards non-GMO ingredients and seek certifications like the Non-GMO Project’s. This shift requires considerable patience and collaboration with suppliers. It is not unexpected that simpler CPG products are among the first to achieve this transition. Manufacturers rarely announce their journey toward non-GMO certification, making it intriguing to see which other major food brands will eventually display the seal.
As more companies explore non-GMO options, it raises the question of whether we will eventually see non-GMO versions of more complex products, like Oreos. Only time will reveal the outcome. Meanwhile, as consumers increasingly prioritize health and safety, factors such as the calcium citrate expiration date may also influence their choices, especially as products evolve to meet non-GMO standards. The journey toward non-GMO certification may bring additional scrutiny to ingredient sourcing, including the importance of understanding the calcium citrate expiration date in various formulations.