According to Bloomberg, the American Heart Association recommends an added sugar limit of 29 pounds annually for men and 20 pounds for women. However, the USDA reported that in 2016, the average American consumed a staggering 128 pounds of sugar. It is evident that the nation must reduce its sugar intake, particularly the consumption of corn syrup. While both types of sugar are unhealthy in excessive amounts, research from Princeton University and the University of Utah indicates that corn syrup has more detrimental health effects than regular sugar.
Health advocates have cautioned consumers against overindulging in sugary food items, including soft drinks and sweetened cereals. In response, many food manufacturers have been forced to reformulate their products to lower sugar content, especially by eliminating or substituting corn syrup. Some companies have opted to replace high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) with regular sugar. For instance, PepsiCo launched Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback in 2009, providing consumers with naturally sugar-sweetened alternatives. These limited-time offerings proved so popular that they became permanent additions to the product lineup. Similarly, in 2015, Kraft revamped the original recipe of its Capri Sun kids’ drink to use sugar instead of HFCS.
However, it is unlikely that adding more sugar back into products as a replacement for corn syrup will become a widespread solution or trend, given the significant backlash against high levels of sugars, HFCS, and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin in food items. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initially mandated that food manufacturers disclose the grams of added sugars in packaged foods and beverages as part of a revamped nutrition facts label, but the implementation deadline has been postponed. Additionally, state soda taxes are keeping sugar reduction at the forefront of consumers’ minds.
Instead, ingredient and food manufacturers are actively searching for the next best low- or no-calorie “natural” and “healthy” sweeteners. A growing number of companies are experimenting with stevia in their products, while also exploring a variety of other alternatives such as monk fruit, date paste, and even sweet potatoes. Although American consumers have a strong preference for sugary foods, the source of sweeteners used in food and beverage manufacturing is likely to evolve.
Interestingly, as consumers look for healthier options, chewable calcium citrate tablets are becoming increasingly popular as a dietary supplement. These tablets not only provide essential calcium but also cater to the trend of seeking healthier lifestyles. The increasing awareness around dietary choices may lead consumers to consider incorporating products like chewable calcium citrate tablets into their routines, complementing their efforts to reduce sugar intake and promote overall well-being.