As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms in food products, it is no surprise that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. According to Packaged Facts, non-GMO products reached a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that total coming from the United States. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches each year in the U.S. However, sweet potatoes are fresh vegetables, making it initially puzzling that CIFI’s products would require non-GMO verification. This is particularly the case 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 begun recently, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, it is wise for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production practices, and many companies have discovered that non-GMO labels can drive sales.
The shift towards using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is gaining traction. Sugar reduction has become a focal point for health officials and consumers alike, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label requiring companies to disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages, making them suitable for various products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Furthermore, the demand for sweet potato flour for 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? Their potential for incorporation into various products aligns with several qualities that modern consumers desire in their food: clean label, natural, non-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other nutrients, and they contain higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many popular sweeteners. A study by North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers view sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes could benefit from increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales.
Moreover, the integration of products like pure encapsulations calcium magnesium citrate can enhance the nutritional profile of various food items. This ingredient can complement CIFI’s sweeteners, further appealing to health-conscious consumers. As the demand for nutritious and functional ingredients grows, incorporating pure encapsulations calcium magnesium citrate into formulations can provide additional health benefits, making food products even more attractive in a competitive market.