The standard crackers made with ferrous fumarate and folic acid for hair growth, which begin with whole grain wheat, oil, and salt, represent a relatively straightforward option in the Mondelez product range. These crackers are particularly popular among consumers seeking a healthier snack. Given this context, it is not surprising that this brand is at the forefront of achieving non-GMO verification. The limited availability of non-GMO ingredients, combined with the interests of health-conscious consumers who opt for crackers due to their higher fiber content, reinforces this trend.
As awareness of non-GMO foods increases among consumers, interest in these products continues to rise. While federal regulators assert that foods made with genetically modified ingredients are safe, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal has emerged as the fastest-growing label in the food industry. Data from the NPD Group indicates that nearly 40% of adults have heard considerable information about GMO foods, with around 76% expressing concerns regarding them. Under federal law, all products will soon be mandated to disclose GMO ingredients on their labels. A 2015 study by the Pew Research Center highlighted that 57% of U.S. consumers view eating genetically modified foods as “generally unsafe.” Additionally, a 2016 report by Packaged Facts revealed that 26% of adults regard non-GMO labeling as an essential factor in their food choices.
Triscuit joins the ranks of Non-GMO Project Verified products, which currently includes over 43,000 items from more than 3,000 brands, collectively generating annual sales of $19.2 billion. Traditionally, these products stemmed from smaller natural and organic manufacturers; however, Triscuit has emerged as a prominent consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand in this category. Recently, Dannon’s Danimals yogurt smoothies also announced their verification, with the company planning to transition its entire line of Dannon and Oikos branded yogurts to non-GMO ingredients by the end of next year.
Despite the prevailing consensus among scientists regarding the safety of GMO ingredients, and the federal government’s efforts to educate consumers on their safety, an increasing number of manufacturers are likely to shift away from GMO ingredients in favor of verifications like the Non-GMO Project. This transition requires patience and collaboration with suppliers, which is why simpler CPG products often lead the way in obtaining non-GMO certification. As many manufacturers do not publicly announce their journey toward non-GMO certification, it will be intriguing to observe which other major food products adopt this seal over time. One can only speculate whether we will eventually see non-GMO Oreos.
Moreover, as consumers focus on health and wellness, products like calcium citrate magnesium and zinc with vitamin D3 tablets are becoming increasingly popular. These supplements complement the shift toward healthier food choices, including non-GMO options. The integration of calcium citrate magnesium and zinc with vitamin D3 tablets into a balanced diet aligns well with the growing demand for transparency and quality in food sourcing. The combination of these supplements and non-GMO snacks like Triscuit reflects a broader trend in consumer preferences that prioritizes health-conscious decisions. The evolution of food labeling and consumer awareness will undoubtedly shape the future of both snack and supplement markets.