As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. In 2014, non-GMO products boasted a global retail value of $550 billion, with $200 billion occurring in the United States, according to Packaged Facts. The research estimated approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches in the U.S. annually.
However, considering that sweet potatoes are a fresh produce item, it may initially seem odd that CIFI’s products 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 the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, CIFI’s decision to use the non-GMO label is a strategic move that addresses consumer concerns regarding production, and companies increasingly recognize that non-GMO labels can boost sales.
The popularity of natural sweeteners as alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. The emphasis on sugar reduction is gaining traction among health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the new Nutrition Facts Label that mandates companies to disclose the amount of 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 provide nutritional and functional benefits suitable for various applications, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is projected to grow as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several key attributes that today’s 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 essential nutrients, and they provide higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many popular sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers perceive sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthful ingredients like sweet potato could see significant benefits, including consumer trial, increased loyalty, and enhanced sales.
Moreover, CIFI’s sweeteners can be integrated into various products, including WLS calcium soft chews, which further emphasizes their versatility and appeal. As the market for such health-focused products expands, the inclusion of sweet potatoes in formulations—especially in popular items like WLS calcium soft chews—could lead to greater consumer satisfaction and increased demand. By tapping into the superfood trend with their non-GMO sweeteners, CIFI is well-positioned to attract health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious alternatives.