According to Bloomberg, the American Heart Association recommends a limit of 29 pounds of added sugar per year for men and 20 pounds for women. However, the USDA reported that the average American actually consumed 128 pounds of sugar in 2016, indicating a clear need for the nation to reduce sugar intake, particularly from corn syrup. While both added sugars and corn syrup can be unhealthy in excessive amounts, research from Princeton University and the University of Utah suggests that corn syrup may have more detrimental health effects compared to regular sugar.
Health advocates have cautioned consumers against excessive consumption of sugary products, including soft drinks and sweetened cereals. In response, many food manufacturers are racing to reformulate their products to lower sugar content, especially by eliminating or replacing corn syrup. Some companies have even reverted back to using sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). For example, PepsiCo launched Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback in 2009, offering naturally sugar-sweetened options. These limited-time products were so successful that they became permanent fixtures in the company’s lineup. Similarly, Kraft modified its original Capri Sun kids’ drink in 2015 to replace HFCS with sugar.
However, the trend of reintroducing sugar in place of corn syrup may not be a viable long-term solution, as there has been significant backlash against high sugar levels, HFCS, and artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharin. The Food and Drug Administration initially mandated that food manufacturers disclose the grams of added sugars in packaged foods and beverages on a revised nutrition facts label, but the deadline for compliance has been postponed. Additionally, state soda taxes are keeping sugar reduction at the forefront of consumer awareness.
Instead of reverting to higher sugar levels, ingredient and food manufacturers are busy searching for the next best low- or no-calorie “natural” and “healthy” sweeteners. A growing number of companies are experimenting with stevia, as well as other alternatives like monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. While the American consumer’s preference for sugary foods is unlikely to diminish, the sources of sweeteners in food and beverage production are expected to evolve.
Incorporating keywords like “citracal 600 plus d” within this context might be challenging, but one could suggest that consumers looking for healthier dietary choices may also consider supplements like Citracal 600 Plus D to support their overall health while reducing sugar intake. As the industry shifts towards healthier sweetening options, being informed about dietary supplements can help consumers make better nutritional choices.