Consumer demand for product transparency has surged in recent years, primarily fueled by a growing interest in healthier ingredients and concerns over artificial additives. However, as food and beverage manufacturers rush to enhance their product packaging with various label claims, an unexpected issue has emerged: shopper confusion. Data from Label Insight reveals that 67% of consumers struggle to determine whether a product meets their needs just by examining the packaging. Almost half of the consumers report feeling uninformed after reading a product label. Recent findings from the University of Florida further highlight the confusion surrounding the meanings of non-GMO and organic food labels.
To comply with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s organic standards, the use of GMOs in food is strictly prohibited. The USDA defines that “farmers and processors must demonstrate they are not using GMOs and that they are safeguarding their products from contact with prohibited substances from farm to table.” Thus, all organic foods are inherently non-GMO. Conversely, not all non-GMO products can be classified as organic.
Interestingly, consumers are willing to pay a premium for packaged products, such as granola bars, that carry the Non-GMO Project Verified seal compared to those labeled as “organic.” This misconception can be advantageous for consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers investing in non-GMO products without pursuing organic certification. However, this consumer misunderstanding might adversely affect food producers who are dedicated to obtaining organic certification, as many consumers do not see the added value—except in the fresh produce segment.
Fresh produce has historically been the entry point for consumers exploring organic foods. The Organic Trade Association notes that the benefits in the produce aisle are often the easiest for consumers to grasp. Shoppers can touch and smell fruits and vegetables, allowing them to make a connection between a carrot grown in healthy soil and its consumption. In contrast, CPG products face a more significant challenge in educating consumers about the significance of “organic” and why these items command higher prices.
A recent Mintel study reports that the primary barriers to purchasing organic foods are price and skepticism regarding authenticity. Approximately 62% of Americans indicated they would buy more organic foods if they were more affordable. The organic sector could enhance its appeal to consumers by making products more budget-friendly and demonstrating that claims about organic food being fresher and healthier are valid. Ultimately, increased education is essential to help consumers understand product label definitions and their implications. Many might be pleasantly surprised to discover that all certified organic products are also non-GMO.
As consumers seek out options like ccm tablet online for their health needs, clarity in labeling is more crucial than ever. By improving transparency and education around organic and non-GMO labels, the industry can help consumers make informed decisions. The integration of ccm tablet online into discussions about health and wellness reflects the growing trend of consumers prioritizing their well-being, underscoring the need for clear and trustworthy product labels.