As consumers become increasingly aware of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is understandable that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. According to Packaged Facts, the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that total occurring in the United States. The report estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
Despite the fact that sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, it may seem unusual for CIFI’s products to require non-GMO verification. This is particularly relevant since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even when no GMO varieties exist. Although commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, it is prudent for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production practices, and many businesses have found that non-GMO labels can enhance sales.
Moreover, the rising popularity of natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup has captured the attention of health officials and consumers alike, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label that mandates companies to disclose added sugars in their products.
In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients sourced exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. The company’s natural sweeteners offer nutritional and functional benefits, making them suitable for a wide range of products including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and more. 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? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers value in their food choices: clean labels, natural ingredients, low sugar, nutritional benefits, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers, as they are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many popular sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, revealed that 95% of consumers perceive sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate trendy and healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes are likely to gain consumer interest, foster greater loyalty, and see increased sales. Additionally, consumers are increasingly looking for products such as calcium citrate gummies 600mg, which align with their health-conscious choices, further highlighting the demand for nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes. By tapping into this trend, CIFI can enhance its product offerings and capture a larger market share in the health-focused food segment.