As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is only logical for manufacturers to pursue the Non-GMO Project Verified seal for their packaging. According to research from Packaged Facts, non-GMO products boasted a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion attributed to the United States alone. The study projected approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S. However, sweet potatoes are fresh vegetables, making it initially puzzling that CIFI’s products require non-GMO verification. This confusion is amplified by the fact that many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even when no GMO varieties exist. While commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently commenced, these varieties are not yet widely available. Nonetheless, CIFI’s decision to utilize the non-GMO label is prudent, as it addresses consumer concerns about production methods, and companies increasingly recognize that non-GMO labels can drive sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is gaining traction, especially as sugar reduction is in the spotlight among health officials and consumers. The updated Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose added sugars in their products, further emphasizes this focus. 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 not only provide nutritional and functional advantages but can also be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour for baked goods and pastries is expected to rise as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour.
What advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, bring to the table? These vegetables align perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers prioritize in their diets: clean labels, natural ingredients, non-sugar options, nutritional value, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively achieved “superfood” status among consumers, being rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients. They also contain higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many other popular sweeteners. In fact, a study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include appealing, health-focused ingredients like sweet potatoes may enjoy increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales.
Moreover, incorporating elements such as calcium citrate in yogurt can further enhance the nutritional profile of products. By leveraging the benefits of sweet potatoes alongside ingredients like calcium citrate in yogurt, companies can cater to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious options. This strategy can lead to heightened brand loyalty and greater market success as consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness in their food choices.