Top 5 Tips for Non-GMO Brand Owners in Early 2026

As organic, non-GMO, and regenerative markets mature, brands face rising expectations from consumers and retailers alike. Recent industry data and certification trends point to five strategic moves mission-driven companies can prioritize in 2026:

1. Lean Into Regenerative Certifications
Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) continues to gain momentum. The Regenerative Organic Alliance launched its first national consumer campaign in 2025, “Heal the Earth, Nourish Your Life,” to expand awareness of ROC-labeled products. Certification strengthens brand trust, substantiates sustainability claims, and positions products for premium shelves.

2. Set Measurable Regenerative Goals and Report on Them
Stakeholders demand transparency. Companies that set clear regenerative targets, such as partner-farm certification or soil-health improvements, and share updates publicly through sustainability reports or digital platforms, build long-term credibility.

3. Use Certification to Open New Distribution Channels
ROC certification can facilitate retail access. Pantry brand SIMPLi expanded from under 100 stores to more than 3,000 outlets nationwide after securing ROC certification. Retail buyers increasingly prioritize verifiable sustainability claims, making ROC a key tool in pitching new accounts.

4. Elevate Farmer Partnerships in Your Story
Consumers expect visibility into farming practices. Programs like Regenified emphasize transparency by highlighting soil health, crop rotations, and labor standards. Sharing authentic farmer stories via packaging or digital media strengthens emotional connections and trust.

5. Prepare for Both Premium and Volume Growth
ROC product availability surged, with SKUs increasing 71 percent year over year in 2024. Brands should balance high-impact regenerative SKUs with broader organic and non-GMO lines to capture both premium and mass-market shoppers.

Sources: Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROC program growth; 2025 consumer campaign; certification criteria); ROA market data (year-over-year SKU growth); SIMPLi press releases (post-ROC expansion); Regenified program materials (farm transparency and soil-health tracking).