As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their food, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are eager to feature the Non-GMO Project Verified seal on their products. According to Packaged Facts, the global retail value of non-GMO products reached $550 billion in 2014, with $200 billion generated in the United States alone. The study estimated that around 2,000 new non-GMO products are launched each year in the U.S. However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, which makes it somewhat surprising that CIFI’s products require non-GMO verification. This is particularly relevant since many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even though there are no GMO varieties available. Although commercial production of GMO potatoes and apples has recently started, they are not yet widely accessible. Nonetheless, it is a smart move for CIFI to utilize the non-GMO label, as it alleviates consumer concerns regarding production practices, and more companies are discovering that non-GMO labels can enhance sales.
The rise in the popularity of natural sweeteners as alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup is significant. Sugar reduction is a key focus for health officials and consumers alike, especially with the recent updates to the Nutrition Facts Label that require companies to disclose added sugars in their products. Since launching its commercial production in 2015, CIFI has become the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients derived exclusively from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. Their natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional advantages that can be incorporated into various products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour for baked goods and pastries is projected to rise as consumers seek alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what benefits do sweet potatoes, particularly CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable aligns well with several attributes that today’s consumers desire in their food: clean labels, natural ingredients, low sugar content, nutritional value, transparency, and sustainability. Sweet potatoes have essentially achieved “superfood” status among consumers. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, boasting higher levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to other popular sweeteners. A study from North Carolina State University cited by CIFI found that 95% of consumers regard sweet potatoes as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that innovate and reformulate their products to include trendy, healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes may experience increased consumer trial, loyalty, and sales.
Moreover, the calcium content in sweet potatoes can be a significant selling point. With increasing awareness about the importance of calcium citrate in diets, consumers are looking for sources of calcium that are not only nutritious but also delicious. By highlighting the calcium-rich properties of their sweeteners, CIFI can further engage health-conscious consumers. In summary, the integration of sweet potato ingredients, particularly those rich in calcium citrate, into various food products can lead to successful outcomes in consumer acceptance and market growth.