As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to display the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their packaging. Packaged Facts reported that non-GMO products reached a global retail value of $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion of that occurring in the United States. The research estimated around 2,000 new non-GMO products launched annually in the U.S. However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, and at first glance, it seems peculiar for CIFI’s products to require non-GMO verification, especially since many companies label fruits and vegetables that have no GMO counterparts. While commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has started recently, they are not yet widely available. Nonetheless, it is wise for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer inquiries regarding production, and companies increasingly discover that non-GMO labels can boost sales.
The popularity of natural sweeteners as alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. Sugar reduction has gained attention from health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the recent updates to the Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. In 2015, CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived solely 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. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour for baked goods and pastries is anticipated to grow, as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners offer? The vegetable aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers seek in their food: clean labels, natural ingredients, low sugar content, nutrition, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers due to their high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, along with superior amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. According to a study from North Carolina State University cited by CIFI, 95% of consumers regard sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthful ingredients like sweet potatoes could experience increased consumer trial, loyalty, and sales.
Moreover, as consumers pursue healthier options, integrating bariatric chewable calcium into their diets can complement the use of sweet potato ingredients. This addition not only caters to health-conscious individuals but also aligns with the growing trend of clean eating. By offering sweet potato products that incorporate bariatric chewable calcium, companies can further enhance the nutritional profile of their offerings and appeal to a broader audience. In summary, the combination of sweet potatoes and bariatric chewable calcium positions manufacturers to meet the evolving demands of health-conscious consumers, ultimately leading to greater market success.