Since 2002, sweet potato consumption has doubled in the United States, from 3.7 pounds per consumer at that time, to 7.5 pounds in 2015, according to USDA data. Although, Americans still eat far more white potatoes, demand is slowing; consumption of white potatoes fell from 125.4 pounds per person a decade ago to 113.7 pounds last year.
Value-added products, such as pre-cut cubes and fries, are driving sweet potato demand growth more than raw sweet potatoes. There was an 18% increase in volume sales for value-added products, compared to 3.2% for retail sales and 2.6% for produce overall, according to Nielsen data.
Manufacturers capitalize on sweet potatoes' fewer calories and higher fiber content than white potatoes. The orange tubers also have other nutrients, such as the antioxidant beta carotene, which gives sweet potatoes their bright color.
Sweet potatoes especially appeal to health-conscious consumers who want to eat fewer grains and processed foods. Adding sweet potatoes to canned soups, frozen meals and smoothies or juice drinks are one way manufacturers could generate interest in struggling products, or further drive and capitalize on growth for others.
However, the growth of sweet potatoes could pose a challenge to manufacturers that primarily use white potatoes in their products.
Source: fooddive.com
