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 consumed 128 pounds of sugar in 2016. It’s evident that the nation needs to reduce its sugar intake, particularly from corn syrup. While both types of sugar can be harmful in excess, research from Princeton University and the University of Utah indicates that corn syrup may pose greater health risks than regular sugar. Health advocates have been warning consumers about the dangers of consuming too many sugar-laden products, including soft drinks and sweetened cereals.
As a result, many food manufacturers have been scrambling to reformulate their products to lower sugar levels, especially by removing or replacing corn syrup. Some companies have even reverted to using sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). For example, PepsiCo launched Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback in 2009, providing consumers with naturally sugar-sweetened options. Due to their popularity, these drinks became a permanent offering. Similarly, Kraft modified the original Capri Sun recipe in 2015 to include sugar instead of HFCS.
However, don’t expect a long-term trend of adding more sugar back into products as a substitute for corn syrup. The backlash against high sugar levels, HFCS, and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin is significant. The FDA initially mandated that food manufacturers disclose the amount of added sugars in packaged foods and drinks on revised nutrition labels, but the deadline for compliance has been delayed. Additionally, state soda taxes are keeping sugar reduction in the spotlight for consumers.
Meanwhile, ingredient and food manufacturers are focused on finding the next generation of low- or no-calorie “natural” and “healthy” sweeteners. An increasing number of food companies are experimenting with stevia and exploring alternatives like monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. While American consumers’ preference for sugary foods is unlikely to change, the source of sweeteners used in food and beverage manufacturing is expected to evolve.
For those looking to improve their dietary habits, it’s also important to consider how to take calcium citrate tablets effectively. This is another aspect of nutrition that consumers are becoming more aware of, alongside the ongoing adjustments in sugar content in food products. As companies innovate with sweeteners, understanding how to incorporate supplements like calcium citrate may also aid in maintaining a balanced diet.