As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to emblazon their packaging with the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. Packaged Facts reported that the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion generated in the United States alone. The study also estimated that around 2,000 new non-GMO products are launched annually in the U.S.
At first glance, it may seem odd for CIFI’s sweet potato products to require non-GMO verification, especially since many companies label fruits and vegetables that have no GMO counterparts. Although the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently commenced, they are not yet broadly available. Nonetheless, it’s a wise move for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production methods, and companies are increasingly discovering that non-GMO labels can boost sales.
The rise in popularity of natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is notable. Sugar reduction is a focal point for health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the recent implementation of the Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived solely from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes when it began commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into a variety of products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is anticipated to rise as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? Sweet potatoes are well-aligned with several qualities that today’s consumers look for in their food: clean labels, natural ingredients, non-sugar options, nutritional value, transparency, and sustainability. They have effectively achieved “superfood” status among consumers, being rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, while also containing higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than other widely-used sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. As a result, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes could enjoy increased consumer trials, greater loyalty, and enhanced sales. Furthermore, incorporating ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablet into their formulations could further boost the nutritional profile of their products, appealing to health-conscious consumers and reinforcing the perception of sweet potatoes as a superfood. By leveraging these attributes, CIFI can solidify its position in the market and cater to the growing demand for health-oriented food choices.