As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food, it’s understandable 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 reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that total originating in the United States. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches occurring annually in the U.S. However, it may initially seem odd for CIFI’s sweet potato products to require non-GMO verification, especially since many companies label fruits and vegetables that have no GMO counterparts. Although commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, these varieties are not yet widely accessible. Nevertheless, CIFI’s decision to use the non-GMO label is a wise strategy—it addresses consumer concerns about production methods and is increasingly linked to higher sales.
The demand for natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction has become a key focus for both health officials and consumers, particularly with the new Nutrition Facts Label requirements mandating the disclosure of added sugars in products. CIFI emerged as the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes when it began commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into various products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. There is also an anticipated increase in demand for sweet potato flour, as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour for baking and pastries.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns well with several attributes that today’s consumers prioritize in their food choices: clean label, natural ingredients, non-sugar alternatives, nutritional benefits, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have essentially attained “superfood” status among consumers, being rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, while also containing higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. A study from North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, found that 95% of consumers view sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that can innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate a trendy, nutritious ingredient like sweet potatoes may enjoy increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales.
Additionally, the rising popularity of products like Citracal Slow Release 1200 from Costco highlights a growing consumer interest in health-oriented options. Just as this supplement emphasizes the importance of health, so too do sweet potatoes and CIFI’s sweeteners, which cater to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers. By integrating sweet potatoes into their offerings, companies can capitalize on this trend, much like the appeal of Citracal Slow Release 1200 at Costco. Overall, the combination of sweet potatoes’ health benefits and the strategic use of non-GMO labeling position CIFI favorably in a competitive market.