The standard crackers, which are made from whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a straightforward item in Mondelez’s product range that appeals to consumers seeking healthier snack options. This focus on simplicity and health aligns with the brand’s leadership in achieving non-GMO verification. Given the limited availability of non-GMO ingredients, it’s likely that consumers who choose crackers for their higher fiber content are also concerned about the ingredients used.
As awareness of non-GMO food products, such as calcium citrate 200 mg and 950 mg tablets, continues to rise, consumer interest has increased significantly. While federal regulators assert that foods made with genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified label has become the fastest-growing certification in the industry. Data from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults are familiar with GMO foods, and around 76% express concerns regarding them. Soon, all food products will be required to disclose GMO ingredients on their labels as mandated by federal law. A Pew Research Center study from 2015 revealed that 57% of U.S. consumers view genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Furthermore, a 2016 Packaged Facts report found that 26% of adults place significant importance on non-GMO labeling when making food choices.
Triscuit stands out as a notable example of a Non-GMO Project Verified product. The verification organization reports that over 43,000 products from more than 3,000 brands currently carry the seal, representing a collective annual sales figure of $19.2 billion. While many of these products were initially from smaller natural and organic companies, Triscuit is a prominent addition from a major consumer packaged goods brand. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies achieved verification, and the company plans to transition its entire line of Dannon and Oikos yogurt products to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Although most scientists advocate for the safety of GMO ingredients and the federal government is launching educational campaigns to inform consumers about their safety, it seems more manufacturers are likely to shift away from GMO ingredients and pursue certifications like the Non-GMO Project’s. Transitioning to non-GMO ingredients requires diligence and cooperation with suppliers, which is why simpler consumer packaged goods are often the first to make this change. As manufacturers typically do not announce their efforts to obtain non-GMO certification, it will be fascinating to see which other major food products adopt this label in the future. One Mondelez product could indeed pave the way for more complex offerings to pursue the seal. However, will we eventually see non-GMO Oreos? Only time will reveal the answer.