As consumers become increasingly aware of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is understandable that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. A report from Packaged Facts indicated that non-GMO products reached a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that total occurring in the United States. The study estimated approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, making it somewhat surprising that CIFI’s products require non-GMO verification. This is especially true given that many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even though there are no GMO varieties available. While commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, they are not yet widely accessible. Nevertheless, it is prudent for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it alleviates consumer concerns regarding production and has been shown to boost sales.
The popularity of natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction is a focal point for both health officials and consumers, particularly with the updated Nutrition Facts Label that mandates the listing of added sugars in products. CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients sourced exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes when it commenced commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various other beverages. There is also an anticipated increase in demand for sweet potato flour for use in baked goods and pastries, as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable’s versatility aligns perfectly with several attributes that modern consumers seek: clean label, natural, non-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have truly attained “superfood” status in the eyes of consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. Furthermore, sweet potatoes can complement supplements like tablet calcium citrate malate with vitamin D3, enhancing the nutritional profile of various products.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, revealed that 95% of consumers regard sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include a trendy, healthful ingredient like sweet potato may reap benefits in consumer trials, enhanced loyalty, and increased sales. Additionally, the integration of natural sweeteners alongside ingredients like tablet calcium citrate malate with vitamin D3 can further appeal to health-conscious consumers, leading to a more competitive edge in the market.