The UK has pledged to reduce sugar consumption by 20% by 2020, a goal that seems ambitious given the extensive product reformulations required over the coming years. Nevertheless, it represents a positive move forward. As the guidelines are voluntary, they may encourage more manufacturers to consider sugar reduction and raise consumer awareness about the sugar content in their diets. The World Health Organization and the FDA both suggest that added sugars should make up less than 10% of daily caloric intake. Additionally, the American Heart Association has recently advised that children should limit their added sugar intake to less than six teaspoons per day, and that children under the age of two should avoid added sugars entirely.
According to Mintel’s 2017 industry report, a significant trend is the growing backlash against sugar, indicating that consumers are beginning to prioritize this issue. Notable brands such as Nestle and Pepsi have already initiated efforts to lower sugar levels in their products, with many others following suit. The question remains whether the U.S. government will launch an initiative to enforce sugar reduction, but a direct mandate may not be necessary. The new Nutrition Facts label will prominently feature the amount of added sugars in products, making this information more visible to consumers. This change, along with rising health trends, has prompted several reformulation efforts in the U.S., which may also categorize processed fruits and vegetables as added sugars under the new labeling regulations.
As consumers become more health-conscious, they may also ask questions like, “How much calcium citrate should I take daily?” This reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking to understand their nutritional needs better. The emphasis on transparency in labeling and sugar content could lead to increased inquiries about various dietary supplements, including calcium citrate, as people strive to strike a balance between reducing sugar intake and ensuring adequate nutrient consumption.