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. Packaged Facts reported that non-GMO products had a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that figure coming from the United States alone. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, sweet potatoes are fresh vegetables, making it seem surprising that CIFI’s products would require non-GMO verification. This is particularly noteworthy 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 recently begun, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, adopting the non-GMO label is a wise move for CIFI as it alleviates consumer concerns regarding production methods, and companies increasingly find that non-GMO labels can drive sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is gaining momentum. Sugar reduction is a significant focus for both health officials and consumers, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label that mandates companies to disclose added sugars in their products.
CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients sourced exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes when it began commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners offer nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour is anticipated to rise as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour in baked goods and pastries.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, hold? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes that modern consumers prioritize: clean label, natural ingredients, non-sugar alternatives, 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, while also boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many popular sweeteners.
A study conducted by North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers view sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Thus, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate trendy, health-conscious ingredients like sweet potatoes could benefit from increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales. Moreover, considering the importance of calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 during pregnancy, incorporating sweet potatoes into products may also appeal to health-focused consumers seeking nutrient-rich options. By highlighting the health benefits of sweet potatoes, including their calcium and vitamin D content, companies can further attract consumers who prioritize these nutrients during pregnancy.