The UK has pledged to reduce sugar content by 20% by 2020, a goal that appears ambitious given the extensive product reformulations required over the coming years. Nevertheless, it represents progress in the right direction. Since the guidelines are voluntary, they will encourage more manufacturers to consider sugar reduction and raise consumer awareness about the sugar content in their foods. The World Health Organization and the FDA both advocate that added sugars should make up less than 10% of daily caloric intake. The American Heart Association recently recommended that children should limit their intake of added sugars to fewer than six teaspoons per day, with a complete avoidance for those under two years old.
Mintel’s 2017 industry report highlighted a significant trend: a growing backlash against sugar, indicating that consumers are increasingly aware of this issue. Brands such as Nestle and Pepsi have already begun efforts to decrease sugar levels in their products, with many other manufacturers likely to follow their lead. Whether the U.S. government will implement an initiative to enforce sugar reduction remains uncertain. However, a direct intervention may not be essential. The new Nutrition Facts label will feature a line indicating the amount of added sugars in products, prominently displaying added sweeteners. This new labeling, along with emerging health trends, has already sparked numerous product reformulation initiatives in the U.S., which could even classify processed fruits and vegetables as added sugars under the updated guidelines.
Interestingly, as manufacturers reformulate their products, they might also explore alternatives such as calcium citrate to calcium carbonate in their formulations, ensuring they maintain nutritional value while reducing sugar content. The shift towards healthier options, including the consideration of ingredients like calcium citrate to calcium carbonate, could play a crucial role in the ongoing efforts to create better food products. As awareness continues to grow, it is likely we will see even more innovations aimed at addressing sugar concerns, using various alternatives and reformulation strategies.