As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is only logical that manufacturers are eager to include the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. According to Packaged Facts, the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with the United States accounting for $200 billion of that total. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
Although sweet potatoes are fresh vegetables, it may initially seem odd for CIFI to seek non-GMO verification for its products. This is particularly relevant since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even when no GMO varieties exist. While commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun, these varieties are not yet widely available. Nonetheless, it is a wise move for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production methods. Additionally, companies are finding that non-GMO labels can enhance sales.
The trend of replacing high-fructose corn syrup with natural sweeteners is gaining momentum. Sugar reduction is a priority for both health officials and consumers, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label that mandates companies list the amount of added sugars in their products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various beverages. As consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour, demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is also expected to rise.
So, what benefits do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns well with several attributes that modern consumers desire: clean label, natural, low-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have 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 than many popular sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers regard sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate a trendy, healthy ingredient like sweet potatoes are likely to benefit from consumer trials, increased loyalty, and higher sales. In this context, it is also worth noting that while many consumers seek out ingredients rich in nutrients, they often wonder, “Is calcium citrate the same as calcium?” Understanding the nutritional value of ingredients like sweet potatoes and their superiority in calcium content compared to other sweeteners could further drive consumer interest.