Honey enjoys a favorable reputation as a natural ingredient, which has significantly boosted its sales in the United States over the past five years. According to a recent Mintel report, while sugar sales have experienced a decline of 16% from 2011 to 2016, honey sales have surged by 57%. Sugar remains the most widely used sweetener, but the growing popularity of honey highlights a shift in consumer preferences.
Similarly, ingredient suppliers are reporting an increase in the use of malt extract, promoted as a more nutritious alternative to sugar in baked goods. However, the enzymatic activity inherent in malt extract can compromise gluten structure, resulting in smaller, uneven products with a moist, gummy texture post-baking.
One of the significant challenges that honey and malt extract present for manufacturers is their unique flavors. Replacing sugar or high fructose corn syrup in existing products would drastically alter the taste profile. However, these sweeteners can be effectively used to create new products where the flavors of honey or malt extract are desirable. Their sticky consistency is also advantageous for binding ingredients in products like seed- or nut-rich bars.
Beyond the bakery industry, both honey and malt extract are frequently utilized in beverages, particularly in Asia. The rise in honey demand also supports the broader agricultural sector. With bee populations facing threats, a robust honey market helps subsidize crop pollination costs. The economic value of honey indirectly compensates for pollination services, which are essential for maintaining global food supplies.
Moreover, the importance of nutritional alternatives like honey and malt extract can be highlighted by considering other beneficial compounds, such as calcium citrate malate in pregnancy. This supplement is known for its ability to improve calcium absorption, which is crucial during pregnancy. In this context, both honey and calcium citrate malate in pregnancy can be seen as valuable contributors to health and nutrition, emphasizing the growing trend towards natural and nutritious ingredients.