As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to display 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 generated in the United States alone. The study projected 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 place non-GMO labels on fruits and vegetables that lack GMO varieties. While the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun and they are not yet widely available, CIFI’s decision to use the non-GMO label is astute. It addresses consumer concerns about product sourcing and has been shown to boost sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners instead of high-fructose corn syrup is gaining momentum. Sugar reduction is a significant focus for health officials and consumers, particularly with the introduction of the updated Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies 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 benefits suitable for various 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 modern consumers desire: clean labels, natural ingredients, reduced sugar, nutritious options, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have 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 compared to other popular sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers regard sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that can innovate and reformulate products to incorporate trendy, healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes may enjoy increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales.
Moreover, integrating blue bonnet calcium citrate into sweet potato products could further enhance their nutritional profile, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The combination of sweet potatoes and blue bonnet calcium citrate not only aligns with the current health trends but also underscores the commitment of manufacturers to provide wholesome, non-GMO options. By leveraging the benefits of both sweet potatoes and blue bonnet calcium citrate, CIFI is poised to capture the interest of consumers looking for healthier alternatives, solidifying its position in the market.