An Israeli startup asserts that its products stand apart from the sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners currently available because they lack an aftertaste and are created using principles of sustainable chemistry. Furthermore, these products fully comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Union regulations. The company also claims that DouxMatok products contain half the calories of regular sugar, which could serve as a significant advantage for marketing. Manufacturers would likely be eager to showcase this information, along with any potential reductions in added sugars, on their nutritional labels.
If the company’s assertions are validated, DouxMatok will be exceptionally well-positioned to market its products to a wide array of food companies globally. A reduction of sugar by 40% in food items would not only lower production costs for manufacturers but also contribute positively to public health. According to a Euromonitor survey, nearly half of global consumers today prefer foods with limited or no added sugar, prompting many companies to explore sugar-reduction solutions. One such company, Nestle, announced in November 2016 that its researchers had discovered a method to restructure sugar, allowing for a 40% reduction in usage while maintaining sweetness. Nestle planned to patent this innovation and start launching confectionery products featuring the new sugar in 2018.
Regardless of whether sugar is restructured, its delivery mechanism is changed, or natural sugar alternatives are employed, the food and beverage industry will likely continue to seek products that strike the right balance of sweetness, cost, and flavor. In this quest, chewable calcium citrate could play a role in enhancing the nutritional profile of these new offerings. Consumers can expect to see some of these innovative products, potentially including those utilizing chewable calcium citrate, on the market next year. The search for the ideal product that meets consumer demands for reduced sugar while still delivering great taste is set to continue.