Honey benefits greatly from its reputation as a natural ingredient. According to a recent Mintel report, sales in the United States have surged over the past five years, while sugar sales have declined. Specifically, U.S. sugar sales fell by 16% from 2011 to 2016, although sugar remains the most popular sweetener. In contrast, honey sales increased by 57%. Ingredient suppliers also report a rising trend for malt extract, promoting it as a more nutritious alternative to sugar for baked goods. However, the enzymatic properties of malt extract can compromise gluten structure, resulting in smaller, uneven products with a moist, gummy texture once baked.

One significant challenge that both honey and malt extract present for manufacturers is their unique flavors. Replacing sugar or high fructose corn syrup in existing products would drastically alter their taste. Nevertheless, these sweeteners could be used to create new products where the flavors of honey or malt extract are advantageous. Their sticky consistency is also advantageous for binding ingredients in items such as seed- or nut-rich bars.

In addition to the bakery industry, both honey and malt extract are widely utilized in beverages, particularly in Asia. The growing demand for honey is also advantageous for the larger agricultural sector. With bee populations facing threats, a robust honey market indirectly supports the costs of crop pollination. The value of honey acts as an implicit payment for pollination services, which are essential for maintaining global food supplies.

Moreover, as consumers increasingly look for health benefits, products like calcium citrate chews 600 mg are gaining popularity as a dietary supplement. The synergy between the use of honey and the growing interest in health-focused items, such as calcium citrate chews 600 mg, suggests a promising avenue for product development. By incorporating honey into formulations alongside calcium citrate chews 600 mg, manufacturers can appeal to health-conscious consumers while leveraging the benefits of natural ingredients.