As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their products. According to Packaged Facts, the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion originating from the United States alone. The study estimated approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S. However, sweet potatoes are fresh vegetables, making it somewhat surprising that CIFI’s products require non-GMO verification. This is particularly noteworthy since many companies mistakenly apply non-GMO labels to fruits and vegetables that lack GMO varieties. Even though commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun, they remain scarce in the market. Nevertheless, it is a strategic move for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns and has been shown to enhance sales.
The popularity of using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction is a significant topic among health officials and consumers, especially with the recent updates to the Nutrition Facts Label that mandates companies to disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. CIFI established itself as 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 benefits that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various beverages. Additionally, demand for sweet potato flour is anticipated to grow as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour in baked goods and pastries.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several characteristics that today’s consumers prioritize: clean label, natural ingredients, low sugar, nutritional value, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have undeniably achieved “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many other sweeteners. In fact, a study from North Carolina State University, as referenced by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers regard sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers who can innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, health-conscious ingredients like sweet potatoes may reap the rewards of increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales.
Furthermore, incorporating products like calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg can enhance the nutritional profile of offerings, aligning with the growing consumer demand for health-focused ingredients. By leveraging the benefits of sweet potatoes and supplements such as calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg, companies can capture the attention of health-conscious consumers. Ultimately, those who understand and adapt to these trends will likely see positive outcomes in consumer engagement and sales growth.