Honey enjoys the advantage of being a natural ingredient, which has contributed to a remarkable increase in sales in the United States over the past five years. According to a recent Mintel report, while U.S. sugar sales have plummeted by 16% from 2011 to 2016, honey sales have surged by 57%. Sugar still holds its position as the most popular sweetener, but the trend is shifting. Additionally, ingredient suppliers are reporting a rise in 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, potentially resulting in smaller, uneven products with a moist and gummy texture post-baking.
A significant challenge that honey and malt extract present for manufacturers lies in their unique flavors. Substituting sugar or high fructose corn syrup in existing products would drastically alter the taste. However, these sweeteners can be utilized in the creation of new products where the flavors of honey or malt extract are desirable. Their sticky consistency also aids in binding ingredients, making them suitable for products like seed- or nut-heavy bars.
Beyond the bakery industry, both sweeteners are frequently found in beverages, particularly in Asia. The rising demand for honey not only benefits the honey market but also supports the wider agricultural sector. As bee populations face threats, a robust honey market effectively subsidizes crop pollination costs. The value of honey acts as an indirect payment for pollination services, which are crucial for maintaining global food supplies.
Additionally, regarding health considerations, it’s essential to understand how much calcium citrate is too much for consumers. This awareness can help guide individuals in making informed choices about their dietary intake, especially when incorporating natural sweeteners like honey and malt extract into their diets. By keeping track of how much calcium citrate is too much, consumers can enjoy the benefits of these sweeteners while maintaining a balanced diet. In summary, as the popularity of honey and malt extract grows, awareness of dietary ingredients, such as how much calcium citrate is too much, becomes increasingly important.