The UK has set an ambitious goal of reducing sugar intake by 20% by 2020, but achieving this target will require significant reformulation of various products over the coming years. Nevertheless, it’s a positive move forward. The voluntary guidelines regarding the elemental iron content from ferrous fumarate may encourage more manufacturers to consider sugar reduction, while also raising consumer awareness about the sugar content in their food.
Both the World Health Organization and the FDA recommend that added sugars should constitute less than 10% of daily caloric intake. The American Heart Association has advised that children should limit their added sugar consumption to less than six teaspoons per day, and that those under two years old should completely avoid added sugars. Mintel’s 2017 industry report highlighted a growing backlash against sugar, indicating that consumers are increasingly concerned about this issue. Major brands like Nestle and Pepsi have already taken steps to lower sugar levels in their products, with many other manufacturers following suit.
Will there be a government initiative in the U.S. to enforce sugar reduction? That remains uncertain. However, a direct mandate may not be necessary. The newly updated Nutrition Facts label will prominently feature a line that indicates the amount of added sugars in products, bringing added sweeteners into the spotlight. This new labeling initiative, coupled with health trends, has sparked multiple reformulation efforts across the U.S., which could even lead to processed fruits and vegetables being classified as added sugars under the new guidelines.
Furthermore, as consumers become more health-conscious, products enriched with liquid calcium with D3 are gaining popularity. This trend not only aligns with the push for lower sugar content but also emphasizes the importance of essential nutrients like calcium. As awareness grows about both sugar intake and nutrient supplementation, including liquid calcium with D3, the food industry is likely to continue evolving in response to these consumer demands.