As consumers increasingly focus on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, it is logical that manufacturers are eager to feature 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 $200 billion of that occurring in the United States. The study estimated approximately 2,000 new non-GMO product launches in the U.S. each year.
However, sweet potatoes are a fresh vegetable, making it seem unusual at first for CIFI’s products to require non-GMO verification. This is particularly relevant because many companies label fruits and vegetables as non-GMO even when there are no GMO varieties available. While GMO potatoes and apples have recently entered commercial production, they are not yet widely distributed. Nonetheless, it is a wise strategy for CIFI to adopt the non-GMO label, as it addresses consumer concerns regarding production methods, and companies often find that non-GMO labeling can boost sales.
The trend of using natural sweeteners to replace high-fructose corn syrup is gaining momentum. There is a strong emphasis on sugar reduction among health officials and consumers alike, particularly with the rollout of the updated Nutrition Facts Label, which mandates the disclosure of added sugars in products. CIFI made history in 2015 by becoming the first and only supplier of sweet potato ingredients sourced solely from U.S.-grown, non-GMO sweet potatoes. The company’s natural sweeteners provide nutritional and functional benefits suitable for a variety of products, including barbecue sauces, dressings, smoothies, and other beverages. Additionally, the demand for sweet potato flour in baked goods and pastries is anticipated to rise as consumers look for alternatives to processed white flour.
So, what advantages do sweet potatoes, and specifically CIFI’s sweeteners, offer? The vegetable’s versatility aligns perfectly with several attributes that today’s consumers prioritize: clean labels, natural ingredients, low sugar content, nutritious options, 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 by North Carolina State University, referenced by CIFI, reveals that 95% of consumers regard sweet potato as a healthy ingredient. Therefore, food manufacturers that can innovate and reformulate their products to incorporate a trendy and healthy ingredient like sweet potato may enjoy increased consumer trials, loyalty, and sales. Furthermore, incorporating calcium citrate chews 600 mg into formulations could enhance nutritional offerings, attracting health-conscious consumers. By focusing on the benefits of sweet potatoes and the potential of calcium citrate chews 600 mg, brands can effectively meet the evolving demands of the market.