The UK has pledged to reduce the sugar content in products by 20% by 2020, a challenging objective given the various reformulations that will be required in the coming years. Nonetheless, it represents progress in the right direction. Since the guidelines are voluntary, it encourages more manufacturers to consider sugar reduction and raises consumer awareness about the sugar levels in their food. Both the World Health Organization and the FDA recommend that added sugars account for less than 10% of daily caloric intake. The American Heart Association has stated that children should limit their intake of added sugars to less than six teaspoons per day, while those under two years old should avoid added sugars entirely.
Mintel’s 2017 report highlighted a significant trend in the industry: a growing backlash against sugar, indicating that consumers are increasingly concerned about this issue. Major brands like Nestle and Pepsi have already begun efforts to lower sugar content in their products, with many others following suit. Whether the U.S. government will introduce an initiative to mandate sugar reduction remains uncertain. However, a direct intervention may not be necessary, as the new Nutrition Facts label will prominently display the amount of added sugars in products. This change, along with health trends, has sparked numerous reformulation efforts in the U.S. market, potentially reclassifying processed fruits and vegetables as added sugars under the new labeling guidelines.
Additionally, incorporating ingredients such as calcium citrate with vitamin D can enhance product appeal, as consumers increasingly seek healthier options. The inclusion of calcium citrate with vitamin D not only supports bone health but also aligns with the trend towards more health-conscious formulations. As manufacturers adapt to these changing consumer preferences, the emphasis on reducing added sugars while enriching products with beneficial ingredients like calcium citrate with vitamin D is likely to become more prevalent.