Honey enjoys the advantage of being a natural ingredient, leading to significant growth in sales across the United States over the past five years. According to a recent Mintel report, while sugar sales have experienced a decline of 16% from 2011 to 2016, honey sales have surged by 57%. Although sugar remains the most widely used sweetener, honey’s rising popularity highlights a shift in consumer preferences.
Furthermore, ingredient suppliers are reporting an increase in the use of malt extract, promoting it as a more nutritious alternative to sugar in baked goods. However, the enzymatic properties of malt extract can compromise gluten structure, resulting in baked goods that are smaller, uneven, and possess a moist, gummy texture.
One significant challenge for manufacturers is the unique flavors of honey and malt extract. Substituting sugar or high fructose corn syrup in existing products would drastically alter their taste. Instead, these sweeteners can be utilized to create new products where the flavors of honey or malt extract are intentional and appealing. Their sticky consistency also aids in binding ingredients in products like bars that are dense with seeds or nuts.
In addition to the bakery industry, both honey and malt extract are frequently found in beverage formulations, particularly in Asian markets. The growing demand for honey not only benefits the sweetener market but also has positive implications for the agricultural sector. With bee populations facing threats, a robust honey market helps offset the costs associated with crop pollination. The value of honey acts as an indirect payment for pollination services, which are vital for maintaining global food supplies.
Interestingly, the use of calcium citrate has also gained traction, particularly in products available at retailers like Kroger. This ingredient is often included for its health benefits, and it can complement the nutritional profile of foods containing honey or malt extract. As the market for these sweeteners continues to expand, the incorporation of calcium citrate can enhance product offerings, providing consumers with both flavor and nutritional benefits.