As sugar continues to dominate the headlines for negative reasons, manufacturers are exploring alternatives; however, many consumers remain skeptical about artificial sweeteners. Natural sweeteners like honey and agave offer additional options, but these are also high-calorie choices that can contribute to obesity similarly to sugar. By July 2018, food manufacturers will be required to list “added sugars” on the Nutrition Facts panel, which may encourage them to reduce sweeteners such as sugar, honey, fructose, and fruit juice concentrates. Solutions like Tate & Lyle’s blend of allulose, sucralose, and fructose may gain traction, allowing food companies to strike a balance by using less added sugar while incorporating sweetness from low- and zero-calorie sweeteners. It remains uncertain if consumers will accept these trade-offs. Will they maintain their consumption of added sugars, or could the new nutritional information labels prompt some to steer clear of specific products? What is evident is that many manufacturers and ingredient suppliers are gearing up for change. However, adapting to new sweeteners comes with its own costs.
Despite the rapid growth of the naturally derived sweeteners market, options like stevia and monk fruit still represent a small share of overall sweetener usage. Their higher price compared to synthetic high-intensity sweeteners, along with persistent issues related to aftertaste, limits their appeal. Blends of sugar and stevia have gained popularity, especially in the beverage sector. In Europe, the Coca-Cola Company even reformulated its classic Sprite to contain 30% less sugar while adding stevia, without marketing it as a mid-calorie option.
Additionally, when considering dietary supplements, calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 tablets are becoming increasingly relevant as consumers look for ways to enhance their health while managing sugar intake. This focus on health may further influence sweetener choices, as consumers seek products that not only meet their taste preferences but also align with their nutritional needs. Overall, the landscape of sweetener usage is evolving, and the integration of health-focused ingredients like calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 tablets may play a significant role in shaping consumer decisions in the future.