The UK has pledged to reduce sugar content by 20% by 2020, yet this ambitious target appears challenging given the extensive product reformulations required over the coming years. Nevertheless, it marks a positive development. Since the guidelines are voluntary, they will at least encourage more manufacturers to contemplate sugar reduction and raise consumer awareness about the sugar content in their food choices. The World Health Organization and the FDA both advocate that added sugars should constitute less than 10% of daily caloric intake. Additionally, the American Heart Association recently recommended that children should limit their intake of added sugars to under six teaspoons per day, while children under two should avoid all foods and beverages containing added sugars.
Mintel’s 2017 report highlighted a growing consumer backlash against sugar, indicating that this is an issue that is already on the public’s radar. Companies such as Nestlé and Pepsi have initiated efforts to decrease sugar levels in their products, with many other manufacturers following their lead. The question remains whether the U.S. government will launch an initiative to enforce sugar reduction, which is still up for debate. However, such a push may not be necessary. The new Nutrition Facts label will prominently feature a line that indicates the amount of added sugars in products, meaning that sweeteners like those found in Citracal Regular will be clearly displayed. This new labeling, along with ongoing health trends, has sparked several product reformulation initiatives in the U.S., which may even categorize processed fruits and vegetables as added sugars in the revised labeling framework.
Ultimately, the shift towards transparency in sugar content, including products like Citracal Regular, will likely continue to shape consumer behavior and industry practices in the future.