As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it’s not surprising 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 the United States accounting for $200 billion of that total. The study also estimated approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches occurring annually in the U.S.
However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, which makes it somewhat puzzling that CIFI’s products would require non-GMO verification. This is particularly true given that many companies place non-GMO labels on fruits and vegetables that don’t have GMO varieties. Although commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently begun, they are not yet widely available. Nevertheless, it’s wise for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production. Increasingly, companies find that non-GMO labels can drive sales.
The popularity of natural sweeteners as replacements for high-fructose corn syrup is on the rise. The focus on sugar reduction is gaining traction among health officials and consumers alike, especially with the introduction of the latest Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates that companies disclose the amount of added sugars in their products. CIFI became the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients made exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes when it commenced commercial production in 2015. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits that can be incorporated into barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, demand for sweet potato flour for baked goods and pastries is expected to grow as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable’s versatility aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers are seeking: clean label, natural, non-sugar, nutritious, transparent, and sustainable. Sweet potatoes have effectively attained “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, and contain 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 potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Consequently, food manufacturers that can innovate and reformulate products to incorporate a trendy, healthy ingredient like sweet potatoes may see rewards in terms of consumer trials, increased loyalty, and higher sales. Moreover, incorporating supplements like Twinlab Calcium Citrate alongside these sweet potato products can further enhance their nutritional profile, appealing to health-conscious consumers who are looking for fortified options in their diets. By leveraging the benefits of sweet potatoes and combining them with ingredients like Twinlab Calcium Citrate, CIFI is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of today’s market.