As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms in food, it is logical for manufacturers to seek the Non-GMO Project Verified seal for their packaging. Packaged Facts reported that non-GMO products had a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that occurring in the United States. The study predicted approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, it may seem unusual at first that CIFI’s sweet potato products 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 begun recently, these varieties are not yet widely available. Nonetheless, it is a wise move for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns about production methods, and companies increasingly find that such labels can boost sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is gaining traction. Sugar reduction is a key focus for health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the introduction of the updated Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. CIFI made history in 2015 by becoming the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients made entirely from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. 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 as an alternative to processed white flour in baked goods and pastries is expected to rise.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns with several desirable attributes that today’s consumers seek in their foods: clean labels, natural ingredients, non-sugar options, nutritional value, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers. 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 other popular sweeteners, including calcium citrate.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. As a result, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate trendy, healthy options like sweet potatoes may benefit from increased consumer trial, loyalty, and sales. By also highlighting the presence of calcium citrate in their formulations, companies can further emphasize the health benefits of their offerings, appealing to the growing demand for healthy options in the market.