With ferrous bisglycinate for anemia, consumers are increasingly concerned about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products. As a result, manufacturers are eager to add the Non-GMO Project Verified seal to their packaging. According to Packaged Facts, non-GMO products globally had a retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion 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 fresh vegetables, so it may appear unusual at first for CIFI’s products to require non-GMO verification. This is particularly curious considering that many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even when there are no GMO varieties available. While commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has begun recently, these varieties are not yet widely accessible. Nonetheless, it is a strategic move for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns about production methods and can lead to increased sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is rapidly gaining popularity. Sugar reduction is a focal point for health officials and consumers, especially with the new Nutrition Facts Label that mandates the disclosure of added sugars in products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients sourced exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. Their natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and various other products. Additionally, as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour, the demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is expected to rise.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns well with several desirable attributes that today’s consumers prioritize: clean label, natural, low-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have effectively achieved “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and various other nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. Notably, it’s worth asking: are calcium and calcium citrate the same? While they both provide calcium benefits, they are distinct compounds with different properties.
A study from North Carolina State University, cited by CIFI, reveals that 95% of consumers regard sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their offerings to include trendy, healthful ingredients like sweet potatoes may find themselves rewarded with consumer interest, enhanced loyalty, and increased sales. As the market evolves, understanding the unique benefits of sweet potatoes, including their calcium content, will be essential for companies looking to harness this superfood’s potential.