As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms in food, it is only logical for manufacturers to pursue the Non-GMO Project Verified seal for their products. According to Packaged Facts, non-GMO items boasted a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion attributed to the United States. The report estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S. However, the idea of CIFI’s sweet potato products needing a non-GMO verification may initially seem unusual, especially since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO despite the absence of GMO varieties. While the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, they are not yet widespread. Nevertheless, it is advantageous for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns about production methods and can potentially boost sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is rapidly gaining traction. Sugar reduction is in the spotlight among health officials and consumers, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label that requires companies to disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients made exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into various products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour, demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is expected to rise.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers prioritize: clean labels, natural ingredients, low sugar content, nutrition, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively achieved “superfood” status among consumers, being rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other nutrients, while also containing higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. Notably, a study from North Carolina State University highlighted by CIFI found that 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthful ingredients like sweet potatoes may reap the rewards of increased consumer trial, loyalty, and sales.
Furthermore, considering the popularity of calcium citrate & vitamin D3 tablets among health-conscious consumers, there is an opportunity for CIFI to highlight the nutritional benefits of its sweet potato ingredients alongside these supplements. Incorporating sweet potatoes into products that promote calcium and vitamin D3 can enhance their appeal, aligning with consumer demands for nutritious options. As the market continues to shift toward healthier alternatives, CIFI’s focus on non-GMO sweeteners positions it well to capture the interest of a growing customer base seeking both quality and transparency in their food choices.