The standard crackers, which begin with whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward option in Mondelez’s product lineup and are popular among consumers seeking a healthier snack. Given these attributes, it is logical that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. After all, sourcing non-GMO ingredients is relatively limited, and consumers who opt for crackers due to their higher fiber content are likely to be mindful of their ingredients, including factors like calcium citrate absorption.
As awareness of non-GMO foods increases, so does consumer interest in these products. While federal regulators assert that foods containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal has become the fastest-growing label in the industry. Statistics from the NPD Group indicate that nearly 40% of adults have heard or read a considerable amount about GMO foods, with around 76% expressing concern regarding them. Upcoming federal legislation will require all products to disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. Furthermore, a 2015 study by the Pew Research Center revealed that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” A 2016 report from Packaged Facts also noted that 26% of adults regard non-GMO labeling as a significant factor in their food choices, emphasizing the importance of ingredients that may affect calcium citrate absorption.
Triscuit joins a growing list of products that are Non-GMO Project Verified. According to the verification organization, over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands currently carry this symbol, together generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. While this list initially comprised mostly smaller natural and organic manufacturers, Triscuit is the latest significant consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand to earn this recognition. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies achieved verification, with the company planning to transition its entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt lines to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the scientific consensus on the safety of GMO ingredients and federal efforts to educate consumers about them, many manufacturers are likely to shift away from GMO ingredients in favor of verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s. This transition to non-GMO ingredients requires dedication and collaboration with suppliers. It is unsurprising that simpler CPG products are among the first to make this change, as they often have fewer complexities compared to other items. Since manufacturers rarely announce when they begin the process of obtaining non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to observe which other major food products eventually adopt the seal. One Mondelez product could certainly inspire other, more intricate products to pursue the verification. However, whether we will eventually see non-GMO Oreos remains to be seen.