According to Bloomberg, the American Heart Association recommends that men limit their added sugar intake to 29 pounds per year and women to 20 pounds. However, the USDA reported that in 2016, the average American consumed a staggering 128 pounds of sugar. This indicates a pressing need for the nation to reduce its sugar consumption, particularly the intake of corn syrup. Although both added sugars and corn syrup can be unhealthy in excessive amounts, research from Princeton University and the University of Utah indicates that corn syrup may have more detrimental health effects than regular sugar.
Health advocates have urged consumers to be cautious about the number of sugary products they consume, including soft drinks and sweetened cereals. Consequently, many food manufacturers have been compelled to reformulate their products to lower sugar content, especially by removing or substituting corn syrup. Some companies have even opted to reintroduce traditional sugar into their products, replacing high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). For instance, PepsiCo launched Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback in 2009, allowing consumers to enjoy soft drinks sweetened with natural sugar. The success of these limited-time drinks encouraged the company to add them permanently to their product lineup. Similarly, in 2015, Kraft revamped its original Capri Sun drink recipe to use sugar instead of HFCS.
However, adding more sugar to products as a replacement for corn syrup is not likely to become a long-term trend. There has been significant backlash against high sugar levels, HFCS, and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin in food items. Although the Food and Drug Administration initially mandated that food manufacturers disclose the grams of added sugars in packaged foods and beverages on revamped nutrition labels, the deadline has been postponed. Additionally, state soda taxes are keeping sugar reduction in the public consciousness.
As a result, ingredient and food manufacturers are actively searching for the next best low- or no-calorie “natural” and “healthy” sweeteners. An increasing number of companies are experimenting with stevia, along with various alternatives such as monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. While American consumers’ love for sugary foods is unlikely to diminish, the source of sweeteners in food and beverage manufacturing is expected to evolve. It is worth noting that some health-conscious consumers are turning to products like calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg for dietary supplementation, which may influence their overall sweetener choices.
In conclusion, the landscape of sweeteners in food products is shifting as manufacturers strive to meet consumer demand for healthier options. The introduction of alternatives like calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg highlights the trend toward more health-conscious dietary choices, ultimately leading to a change in how sweeteners are sourced and used in the industry.