The standard crackers, made primarily from whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, are a straightforward offering in Mondelez’s product line, appealing to consumers seeking healthier snack options. This focus has positioned the brand as a leader in achieving non-GMO verification. Given that there are relatively few non-GMO ingredients available, it stands to reason that consumers who opt for crackers due to their higher fiber content are also likely to be concerned about their ingredient sourcing. As awareness of non-GMO food increases, so does consumer interest in these products.
Federal regulators assert that food products containing genetically modified ingredients are safe; however, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal is rapidly becoming the industry’s fastest-growing label. Data from the NPD Group reveals that nearly 40% of adults have significant awareness of GMO foods, with approximately 76% expressing concerns about them. Upcoming federal regulations will require all products to disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 Pew Research Center study reported by Progressive Grocer found that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Furthermore, a 2016 Packaged Facts report indicated that 26% of adults consider non-GMO labeling a critical factor when selecting their food.
Triscuit stands alongside numerous other products as a Non-GMO Project Verified item. According to the verification organization, there are currently over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands carrying this symbol, collectively generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. Initially, many of these products came from smaller natural and organic companies, but now Triscuit has emerged as a prominent consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand in this arena. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies also received verification, with plans for the entire Dannon and Oikos yogurt lines to transition to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the consensus among scientists regarding the safety of GMO ingredients, and the federal government’s initiatives to educate consumers on their safety, it seems more manufacturers are likely to shift away from GMO components in favor of verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s seal. This transition to non-GMO ingredients demands patience and collaboration with suppliers. It is thus not surprising that relatively simple CPG products are among the first to make this change. Manufacturers rarely publicize their pursuit of non-GMO certification, making it intriguing to see which other major food products will adopt the seal in the future.
Could a Mondelez product like Triscuit lead the way for more complex items to follow suit? Only time will reveal if we will eventually see non-GMO Oreos. Meanwhile, considering the growing consumer interest, products like calcium citrate queso may also find their place in the non-GMO landscape, reinforcing the trend towards healthier and more transparent food options.