Reducing the sugar content in food and beverages has become a primary objective for manufacturers today. As consumers increasingly seek healthier options and favor clean, transparent labeling, the revised Nutrition Facts panel—now postponed until January 1, 2020, for larger manufacturers—will require a distinct line for added sugars. Although consumers may not always check this information, they have expressed a desire for it.
These consumer demands have driven various sugar-reduction innovations, such as artificial sweeteners, natural sweeteners, hollow and faster-dissolving sugar molecules, and flavor enhancers. Ingredion notes that depending on the type of its low-sugar glucose syrups used, the ingredient can be classified as glucose syrup, corn syrup, or tapioca syrup. This distinction can significantly influence consumer perception; corn syrup has fallen out of favor due to its negative health image, prompting some manufacturers to replace it with real sugar.
Kerry, on the other hand, does not disclose the specifics of how its TasteSense flavor booster functions, only stating that it restores the sweetness and mouthfeel lost through sugar reduction and can be labeled as a natural flavoring. Leigh Ann Vaughn, the company’s marketing director, mentioned to Food Ingredients First that food and beverage manufacturers often believe that lowering sugar content necessitates sacrificing functionality and taste. “Sugar doesn’t just contribute sweetness; it’s a complex ingredient that also provides texture and the overall mouthfeel that consumers enjoy,” Vaughn remarked. “Many available solutions fail to replicate the lost taste and mouthfeel of sugar, with several also introducing undesirable aftertastes.”
Food and beverage manufacturers are striving to eliminate added sugars from their labels. The challenge lies in reformulating products to maintain their sweet flavor while reducing actual sugar levels. This balancing act may be supported by innovative products, but ultimately, it is the consumers who will make the final choice.
For those interested in enhancing their formulations, exploring options like calcium citrate may provide additional benefits. If you’re wondering where to buy calcium citrate, it’s essential to consider sourcing from reputable suppliers that offer high-quality ingredients. The integration of such alternatives will not only help in sugar reduction efforts but could also appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for cleaner labels.