As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it’s only logical that manufacturers are eager to showcase the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. A report from Packaged Facts noted that non-GMO products reached a global retail value of $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.
At first glance, it may seem unusual for CIFI’s sweet potato products to require non-GMO verification, especially 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 only recently begun, they are not yet widely accessible. Nonetheless, it is wise for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns about production practices, and companies are increasingly discovering that non-GMO labels can boost sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners as alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup is also on the rise. The emphasis on sugar reduction is capturing the attention of both health officials and consumers, particularly with the introduction of the updated Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates companies disclose 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 launched commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages, among various products. With consumers increasingly seeking alternatives to processed white flour, demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is also expected to rise.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable’s versatility aligns well with the attributes that today’s consumers prioritize: clean labels, natural ingredients, non-sugar options, nutrition, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively achieved “superfood” status in consumers’ eyes. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, and they contain higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many popular sweeteners. Additionally, sweet potatoes can serve as a source of vitamin D with calcium citrate, enhancing their appeal as a health-conscious ingredient.
According to a study from North Carolina State University cited by CIFI, 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include a trendy, nutritious ingredient like sweet potatoes could be rewarded with increased consumer trial, loyalty, and sales. With the growing interest in foods that provide health benefits like vitamin D with calcium citrate, the potential for sweet potatoes to enhance product offerings is significant.