McCormick & Company, Incorporated, announced plans to take a leadership position in Organic and Non-GMO herbs and spices ahead of the peak holiday season.
McCormick's commitment builds on its category-leading quality record. The company announced the introduction of a Non-GMO labeled Vanilla Extract as well as plans to significantly increase the number of Organic and Non-GMO offerings in 2016.
McCormick is making several important changes to its portfolio over the next 12 months. The company announced that 80% of its Gourmet herbs & spices business in the U.S. will be Organic and Non-GMO by 2016. Additionally over 70% of all McCormick branded herbs, spices and extracts in the U.S. will be labeled Non-GMO. Most of McCormick's herbs & spices are currently Non-GMO. The company will begin to label Non-GMO products to help consumers at the point of sale as part of its commitment to transparency and educating consumers about the category. This move is the first announcement under McCormick's new quality consumer education initiative. Non-GMO Vanilla extract will be the first to hit store shelves and has already begun shipping.
"Our consumers are increasingly interested in quality flavors with pure ingredients in their food," said Lawrence Kurzius, McCormick's President & Chief Operating Officer. "Our effort to increase our Organic and Non-GMO offerings proves that we are listening to consumers and are committed to continuing to evolve."
The announcement comes ahead of the peak fall cooking and holiday season where consumer usage of herbs, spices & extracts as key ingredients in recipe favorites increase. Meals during this period highlight the importance of flavorful foods for everyone from kitchen masters to cooking novices.
