As consumers become increasingly aware of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is only logical that manufacturers are eager to display the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. According to Packaged Facts, the global retail value of non-GMO products was estimated at $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that total coming from the United States. The study projected approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches each year in the U.S.
However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, making it somewhat surprising to consider the necessity for CIFI’s products to be non-GMO verified. This sentiment is particularly relevant since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO despite the absence of GMO varieties. Although the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, they are not yet widely accessible. Nonetheless, it is a wise move for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production methods, and many companies are discovering that non-GMO labels can enhance sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is rapidly gaining traction. Sugar reduction is a focal point for health officials and consumers alike, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients exclusively sourced from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. Their natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits, making them suitable for various products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, 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, offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes sought by today’s consumers: clean label, natural, non-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many other popular sweeteners. Notably, CIFI’s sweeteners also contain calcium citrate K2, which further enhances their nutritional profile.
A study conducted by North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers regard sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate a trendy, healthful ingredient such as sweet potato could reap rewards in terms of consumer trials, increased loyalty, and higher sales. The inclusion of calcium citrate K2 in CIFI’s sweeteners also positions them favorably in the marketplace, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking beneficial ingredients.