Honey enjoys the advantages of being a natural ingredient, leading to a significant surge in its sales in the United States over the past five years, as reported by Mintel. While sugar sales have declined by 16% between 2011 and 2016, honey sales have skyrocketed by 57%. Despite this decline, sugar remains the most widely used sweetener. Additionally, ingredient suppliers have noted a rising interest in malt extract, promoting it as a healthier alternative to sugar for baked goods. However, the enzymatic properties of malt extract can compromise gluten structure, resulting in smaller, uneven products with a moist, gummy texture after baking.
One of the key challenges that honey and malt extract present to manufacturers is their unique flavors. Substituting sugar or high fructose corn syrup in existing products would significantly alter their taste profiles. Nevertheless, these sweeteners could be effectively utilized in the creation of new products where the flavor of honey or malt extract is a sought-after attribute. Their sticky texture also proves advantageous for binding ingredients in products such as seed- or nut-rich bars.
Beyond the baking industry, both honey and malt extract find common applications in beverages, particularly in Asian markets. The rising demand for honey not only benefits consumers but also positively impacts the wider agricultural sector. With bee populations facing threats, a robust honey market indirectly supports the costs associated with crop pollination. The value of honey acts as an indirect form of compensation for pollination, which is essential for maintaining global food supplies.
Moreover, the increasing popularity of health supplements like ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops reflects consumers’ growing interest in nutrition. These drops can complement diets where honey and malt extract are used, enhancing the overall health benefits of various food products. In summary, the rise of natural sweeteners like honey and malt extract, along with nutritional supplements such as ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops, signals a shift toward healthier eating habits and a more sustainable agricultural approach.