The standard crackers, which are 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 obtaining non-GMO verification. There are relatively few non-GMO ingredients available, and consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are likely to be mindful of the ingredients used.
As more consumers become aware of non-GMO food options, the interest in these products has surged. While federal regulators assert that foods containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal has quickly become the most rapidly growing label in the industry. According to data from the NPD Group, nearly 40% of adults have heard or read a significant amount about GMO foods, with approximately 76% expressing concern regarding them. New federal regulations will soon require all products to disclose any GMO ingredients on their labels. A Pew Research Center study from 2015, referenced in Progressive Grocer, revealed that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 Packaged Facts report indicated that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling an important criterion when selecting food.
Triscuit stands alongside many other products as a Non-GMO Project Verified item. Currently, the verification group reports over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands bearing this symbol, collectively accounting for $19.2 billion in annual sales. While this list primarily consisted of smaller natural and organic brands in the past, Triscuit is now the latest major consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand to join. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies announced their verification, and the company aims to transition its entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt line to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the endorsement of GMO ingredients by most scientists and the federal government’s educational initiatives to reinforce their safety, it is likely that more manufacturers will pivot away from GMO ingredients in favor of verifications such as the Non-GMO Project’s. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires diligent effort and cooperation with suppliers. Thus, it is not surprising that relatively simple CPG products are among the first to make this transition. As manufacturers typically do not announce their pursuit of non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to see which other major food items eventually carry the seal. One Mondelez product could certainly inspire other, more complex offerings to seek the same certification. However, will we eventually see non-GMO Oreos? Only time will tell.
In addition to the growing non-GMO trend, consumers are also exploring other health-oriented products, such as Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc available on Amazon. The increasing awareness of nutritional choices may lead to a rise in demand for such supplements, further influencing the food industry to prioritize transparency in their ingredient sourcing and labeling practices. As the market evolves, it will be essential to monitor how brands adapt and what new products emerge to meet consumer preferences, including potential innovations like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc products on Amazon.