As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is not surprising that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. Packaged Facts reported that the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that amount generated in the United States alone. The study projected around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, which makes it initially puzzling that CIFI’s products require non-GMO verification. This is particularly relevant given that many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even in the absence of GMO varieties. While the commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, it is a savvy move for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it answers consumer concerns regarding production and increasingly enhances sales.
The trend towards using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction has become a focal point for health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the implementation of the updated 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 made solely from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes, offering a unique position in the market. Their natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is projected to rise as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, possess? The vegetable’s versatility aligns well with the attributes that today’s consumers desire in their food: clean label, natural ingredients, nutritious options, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have achieved “superfood” status among consumers, as they are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients while containing higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium than many other sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers consider sweet potato a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include a trendy, healthy ingredient like sweet potato may enjoy increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales. In this context, the integration of sweet potato with products like ccm tablet generic could further enhance their appeal, signaling to health-conscious consumers a commitment to nutritious, non-GMO ingredients. By highlighting the benefits of sweet potatoes, CIFI positions itself favorably in a market that values health and wellness, potentially leading to greater success and recognition as consumer preferences continue to evolve.