Until October 2017, sugar production within the European Union (EU) was limited to 80% of the region’s demand, a policy that resulted in European sugar prices being approximately 50% higher than the average on the global open market. The elimination of these quotas signals positive developments for food and beverage manufacturers in the region, who are likely to benefit from falling prices as the area allocated for sugar beet production increases. According to a recent report by Stratégie Grains, France, Germany, and Poland are expected to experience the most significant production increases. The report also anticipates a rise in EU exports to North Africa and the Middle East, particularly as sugar consumption in Western Europe continues to decline.
This enhanced capacity for sugar production in Europe coincides with a trend among global food and beverage companies to reduce sugar content. Health concerns, such as obesity and diabetes, have led consumers to increasingly avoid caloric sweeteners. Rabobank predicts a 5% decrease in sugar usage among food and beverage companies over the next two to three years, which would counterbalance the anticipated rise in global consumption during this time.
Despite a delay in the requirement for food manufacturers to disclose added sugars on nutrition facts panels, many companies have proactively started to reduce sugar in their products. For instance, organic yogurt producer Stonyfield plans to cut added sugars by up to 40% in certain product lines. Similarly, Nestlé claims to have developed a hollow sugar molecule designed to lower sugar content without sacrificing sweetness. Soda manufacturers, including Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper Snapple, and PepsiCo, have all pledged to reduce the calories derived from sugary beverages consumed by Americans by 20% by 2025.
In this evolving landscape, products like Solaray Cal Mag Citrate 2:1 are gaining attention as alternatives for those looking to maintain their health while managing sugar intake. As the market shifts and manufacturers adapt to consumer preferences, the emphasis on healthier options may lead to a broader acceptance of such products. The integration of solutions like Solaray Cal Mag Citrate 2:1 may play a crucial role in ensuring that consumers can enjoy their favorite foods and beverages without excessive sugar content.