The standard crackers, which start with whole grain wheat, iron ferrous fumarate, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward offering in Mondelez’s product range, appealing to consumers who prioritize healthier snack options. Given this context, it’s no surprise that the brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. There are limited non-GMO ingredients available, and consumers who select a cracker for its higher fiber content are likely to be conscious of its ingredients.
With growing awareness of non-GMO foods, interest in these products has surged. Although federal regulators assert that foods containing genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified label is becoming the fastest-growing certification in the industry. Data from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults are familiar with GMO foods, with about 76% expressing concerns regarding them. Upcoming federal regulations will mandate that all products disclose 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 a significant factor in their food choices.
Triscuit is among the notable products that have achieved Non-GMO Project Verified status. According to the verification organization, there are currently over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands bearing this symbol, collectively generating $19.2 billion in annual sales. While this list was once dominated by smaller natural and organic brands, Triscuit marks the entry of a major consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies also received 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 consensus among scientists regarding the safety of GMO ingredients, and the federal government’s efforts to educate consumers about their safety, an increasing number of manufacturers are likely to move away from GMO ingredients towards verifications like the Non-GMO Project’s, or whatever is necessary to comply with federal labeling laws. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires diligence and collaboration with suppliers, making it unsurprising that simpler CPG products are among the first to make this shift. As manufacturers typically do not announce their journeys toward non-GMO certification publicly, it will be intriguing to see which other major food products eventually feature this seal. It’s conceivable that a Mondelez product could pave the way for more complex items to achieve non-GMO status. However, whether we will see non-GMO Oreos in the future remains uncertain.
Incorporating ingredients like calcium ascorbate, calcium citrate, and vitamin D3 into their formulations could also enhance the appeal of these snacks, as consumers increasingly seek products that offer additional health benefits. As the non-GMO trend continues to evolve, the integration of such nutrient-rich components may become a key focus for brands aiming to cater to health-conscious consumers.