As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is logical for manufacturers to pursue the Non-GMO Project Verified seal for 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 figure. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, the notion that CIFI’s sweet potato products require non-GMO verification might initially seem unusual, especially since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO despite there being no GMO variants available. While 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 savvy move, as it addresses consumer concerns about production practices, and companies are increasingly discovering that non-GMO labels can boost sales.
The popularity of natural sweeteners as alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup is rapidly rising. The focus on sugar reduction has garnered attention from health officials and consumers alike, particularly 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 derived solely from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. Their natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages that can be incorporated into a variety of products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and baked goods. The demand for sweet potato flour is also anticipated to rise as consumers search for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes—and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners—offer? They align perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers desire: 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 other essential nutrients, offering higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other sweeteners. A study from North Carolina State University, cited by CIFI, indicated that 95% of consumers consider sweet potatoes a healthy ingredient. Thus, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate products to include a trendy, healthful ingredient like sweet potatoes may reap rewards in terms of consumer trials, enhanced loyalty, and increased sales.
Additionally, the incorporation of ingredients such as Solgar D3 Calcium can further enhance the nutritional profile of products, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The integration of Solgar D3 Calcium in sweet potato-based items not only boosts their health benefits but also aligns with the growing trend towards transparency and nutritional value. With the rising awareness of the benefits of both sweet potatoes and Solgar D3 Calcium, manufacturers have a unique opportunity to cater to the evolving preferences of consumers seeking healthier, more nutritious food options.