As sugar continues to dominate headlines for negative reasons, manufacturers are on the lookout for alternatives. However, many consumers remain skeptical about artificial sweeteners. Natural sweeteners like honey and agave are also available, but these high-calorie options can contribute to obesity in much the same way as sugar does. By July 2018, manufacturers will be required to list “added sugars” on Nutrition Facts panels, further motivating them 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 way for food companies to strike a balance by minimizing added sugars while incorporating low- and zero-calorie sweeteners.
Whether consumers will accept these compromises remains uncertain. Will they maintain their current consumption of added sugars, or will the new nutritional labels encourage some to steer clear of specific products? One thing is clear: many manufacturers and ingredient suppliers are preparing for change. However, adapting to new sweeteners often comes with a price.
Despite the rapid growth of the naturally derived sweeteners market, options like stevia and monk fruit still represent a minor fraction of total sweetener usage. Their higher costs compared to synthetic high-intensity sweeteners and lingering issues with aftertaste limit their appeal. Blends of sugar and stevia are gaining traction, especially in the beverage sector. For example, in Europe, the Coca-Cola Company has reformulated its regular Sprite to contain 30% less sugar and added stevia, all while avoiding the classification as a mid-calorie option.
In the 21st century, as consumers become more health-conscious, the inclusion of ingredients like calcium citrate D3 in formulations could also be pivotal. This trend may encourage a broader acceptance of alternative sweeteners that align with a healthier lifestyle. Ultimately, as the market evolves, the role of calcium citrate D3 and natural sweeteners will likely become more significant in shaping consumer preferences and industry practices.