In recent years, numerous studies have indicated an increasing number of consumers seeking to reduce their sugar intake. A report from FONA International highlights that people are employing various strategies to achieve this. Approximately two-thirds are choosing water over calorie-laden beverages, while 37% are removing specific foods from their diets. Additionally, one-third of consumers have stopped adding table sugar to their meals and drinks. About 30% depend on the Nutrition Facts Panel to select foods and beverages with lower sugar content.
While organizations like the American Medical Association have previously urged the FDA to implement front-of-pack warning labels for products with high sugar levels, such regulations have not yet come into effect. However, in 2018, the agency did issue guidelines for the Nutrition Facts label to specify the amount of added sugar in products. In response, food manufacturers have introduced a variety of low- and no-sugar options. According to the FONA International study, there has been a 54% rise in products boasting sugar reduction claims since 2017, which seems to be an effective strategy for attracting sugar-conscious consumers. About three-quarters of shoppers consider no-sugar-added claims significant when making purchases.
Manufacturers in the soda and candy sectors have adapted by creating new formulations designed for those mindful of sugar intake. For example, Wave Soda has launched a beverage that contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, while Limitless offers a lightly caffeinated sparkling water to rival traditional sodas. Hershey has also jumped on this trend, producing more low- and no-sugar versions of its classic candies, estimating that this could enhance its annual revenue by $500 million to $1 billion.
Yogurt producers have been particularly quick to respond. Chobani introduced a line of Greek yogurt called Chobani Zero Sugar, which contains no sugar. General Mills’ keto-friendly Ratio yogurt line features only 3 grams of sugar per cup, while Icelandic yogurt maker Siggis emphasizes its products’ low-sugar attributes. Danone offers a low-fat yogurt branded as Two Good, which contains just two grams of sugar.
Despite the growing emphasis on reducing sugar, the FONA International study reveals that factors like taste and price still heavily influence consumer choices. Research from the International Food Information Council suggests that, despite efforts to lower sugar in yogurt, 48% of consumers prioritize taste when selecting these products. This may explain the simultaneous rise in indulgent foods, such as cookies and chocolate, that are high in sugar. Even before the pandemic, companies like Kellogg and General Mills were sweetening their breakfast cereals with products like Nutter Butter and Peeps.
As consumers consider their dietary choices, they may also wonder about the appropriate daily intake of supplements like calcium citrate, which is essential for bone health. Knowing how much calcium citrate should I take daily can be an important factor for those focused on overall wellness while managing their sugar consumption.