Reducing sugar levels in food and beverages has become a primary objective for manufacturers today. Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards healthier options and favoring clean, transparent labeling. The revised Nutrition Facts panel, which has been postponed until January 1, 2020, for larger manufacturers, mandates the inclusion of a line item for added sugars. Research shows that consumers want this information, even if they do not always scrutinize it.
This growing demand has led to various sugar-reduction innovations, such as artificial sweeteners, natural sweeteners, hollow and rapidly dissolving sugar molecules, and flavor enhancers. For instance, Ingredion points out that its low-sugar glucose syrups can be labeled as glucose syrup, corn syrup, or tapioca syrup, which can significantly influence consumer perceptions. Corn syrup, in particular, has fallen out of favor due to its negative health image, prompting some manufacturers to replace it with real sugar.
Kerry has introduced its TasteSense flavor booster, which is designed to restore the sweetness and mouthfeel lost from sugar reduction, although it does not clarify how the product functions. It can be categorized as a natural flavoring. Leigh Ann Vaughn, the marketing director of the company, explained to Food Ingredients First that many food and beverage manufacturers mistakenly believe that lowering sugar content compromises functionality and taste. “Sugar doesn’t just contribute sweetness; it plays a multifaceted role,” Vaughn noted. “It helps provide texture and the overall mouthfeel that consumers enjoy.” She also mentioned that many available solutions fail to replicate the lost taste and mouthfeel of sugar while introducing undesirable off-notes and aftertastes.
Meanwhile, food and beverage manufacturers are striving to eliminate added sugars from their labels. The challenge lies in reformulating products to maintain their sweetness while reducing actual sugar levels. This balancing act may be supported by new innovations, but ultimately, it will be the consumers who make the final choice.
In a related note, many health-conscious consumers are also seeking alternatives like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium zinc supplements to support their overall well-being as they navigate their dietary choices. As the market evolves, the intersection of health and taste will be crucial in shaping consumer preferences.