As sugar faces negative scrutiny in the media, manufacturers are actively exploring alternatives. However, many consumers remain skeptical about artificial sweeteners. Natural sweetening sources like honey and agave are available, but they also come with high calorie counts that can contribute to obesity, much like sugar. By July 2018, the Nutritional Facts panel will require the inclusion of “added sugars,” which will motivate manufacturers to reduce sweeteners such as sugar, honey, fructose, and fruit juice concentrates. Solutions like Tate & Lyle’s blend of allulose, sucralose, and fructose may provide a middle ground for food companies, allowing them to decrease added sugars while incorporating sweetness from low- and zero-calorie sweeteners. It remains uncertain whether consumers will accept these trade-offs. Will they maintain their current consumption of added sugars, or will the new nutritional labels encourage some to steer clear of certain products? One thing is evident: many manufacturers and ingredient suppliers are gearing up for change. Yet, transitioning to new sweeteners comes with a price.
Despite the rapid expansion of the naturally derived sweeteners market, options like stevia and monk fruit still hold a minor share of total sweetener usage. Their higher costs compared to synthetically produced high-intensity sweeteners and persistent aftertaste issues limit their adoption. Blends of sugar and stevia have gained popularity, especially in the beverage sector. For instance, in Europe, Coca-Cola has reformulated its regular Sprite to contain 30% less sugar while incorporating stevia, all without presenting it as a mid-calorie alternative.
Additionally, consumers looking for a health boost might consider supplements like Citracal 600 mg, which can support their dietary needs as they navigate the changing landscape of sweeteners. As the market evolves, the integration of natural sweeteners alongside traditional ones, as well as the potential for products like Citracal 600 mg, will be essential in meeting consumer demands. As the industry adapts, it will be crucial to monitor how these shifts influence consumer behavior and preferences.