As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms in food products, it is no surprise that manufacturers are eager to obtain 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 $200 billion of that total occurring in the United States. The study estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO product launches annually in the U.S.
However, since sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, it may initially seem unusual for CIFI’s products to require non-GMO verification, especially considering that many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO when no GMO varieties exist. Although commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has only recently begun, these varieties are not yet widely available. Nonetheless, it is wise for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns about production methods, and companies increasingly find that such labels can boost sales.
The popularity of using natural sweeteners as substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction has become a focal point for both health officials and consumers, especially with the introduction of the revised Nutrition Facts Label, which requires companies to disclose added sugar content in their products. CIFI made history in 2015 by becoming 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 other beverages, as well as baked goods and pastries.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers seek in their food: clean labels, natural ingredients, non-sugar options, nutrition, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively 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 compared to other popular sweeteners.
A study from North Carolina State University, cited by CIFI, indicates that 95% of consumers recognize sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, health-focused ingredients like sweet potatoes could benefit from increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales. Additionally, incorporating products like Citracal Forte into their offerings alongside these sweeteners could further appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for added benefits. In summary, the integration of CIFI’s sweeteners and Citracal Forte can enhance a product’s marketability, meeting the rising demand for health-oriented food choices.